Prince George’s County Theft Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Options?
Theft charges in Prince George’s County, Maryland, are serious and can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, theft is classified based on the value of the property, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 25 years in prison.
Maryland Theft Laws and Penalties
Maryland law defines theft as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The specific statute governing theft is found in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The severity of the charge depends primarily on the value of the stolen goods. A larceny defense lawyer Prince George’s County must understand these classifications to build an effective defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Prince George’s County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom to every case. This prosecutorial insight is a key advantage when negotiating with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Official Legal Resources
- Maryland Criminal Law Statutes (Official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Prince George’s County Website
Defending Theft Charges in Prince George’s County Court
In Prince George’s County, all misdemeanor theft trials and initial felony appearances happen at the District Court in Upper Marlboro. A key local procedural fact is the frequent use of Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). A PBJ disposition allows the judge to place you on probation without entering a guilty verdict, which means no formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation. This is a critical goal for a stealing charge defense lawyer Prince George’s County. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction are often willing to consider PBJ for first-time offenders or in cases with mitigating circumstances.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A lawyer can argue for personal recognizance or reasonable bail.
- Review the Evidence: We obtain all police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with the Prosecutor: We engage with the State’s Attorney’s Office to seek a dismissal, PBJ, or reduction in charges based on evidence weaknesses or your background.
- Prepare for Trial: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we meticulously prepare to defend you at trial, challenging the intent to steal or the value of the property.
- Post-Disposition Strategy: If eligible, we guide you through the expungement process to clear your record after the waiting period.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Maryland
In Prince George’s County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property involved, with higher values skilled to felony charges and more severe consequences.
| Offense (Based on Value) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Theft $100 to under $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, possible restitution. |
| Theft $1,500 to under $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, significant long-term collateral consequences. |
| Theft $25,000 to under $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, severe impact on professional licenses. |
| Theft $100,000 or more | Felony | Up to 25 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Major felony with extensive prison time and fines. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. Our deep familiarity with the Prince George’s County court system and its prosecutors allows us to anticipate strategies and advocate effectively for outcomes like PBJ or charge reductions.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our firm actively practices in Prince George’s County. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides critical strategic direction on cases involving financial evidence or complex theft allegations. Every case is approached with the goal of protecting your record and your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Prince George’s County
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Prince George’s County. We represent individuals in Upper Marlboro, Bowie, College Park, Laurel, Hyattsville, Greenbelt, Largo, Fort Washington, Lanham, Clinton, Capitol Heights, Oxon Hill, and Suitland.
24/7 Phone Consultations — Meetings By Appointment Only
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Prince George’s County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my theft record expunged in Prince George’s County, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. A lawyer can review your specific disposition from the District Court of MD for Prince George’s County to determine your eligibility.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Prince George’s County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft carries significant penalties—theft of $100-$1,500 can result in up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at the District Court in Upper Marlboro can negotiate for a PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your record from long-term harm.
What should I do if I am arrested for theft in Prince George’s County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone. Contact a theft defense lawyer Prince Georges County immediately. Your attorney can intervene at the initial appearance before the commissioner to argue for your release and begin building your defense strategy.
What’s the difference between petty theft and grand larceny in Maryland?
Maryland uses value-based classifications, not the terms “petty” or “grand” larceny. Theft under $1,500 is generally a misdemeanor. Theft of $1,500 or more is a felony. The exact value alleged is crucial, and a larceny defense lawyer Prince George’s County will scrutinize the evidence to challenge the stated value.
Related Legal Resources
- Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Montgomery County, MD
- Prince George’s County DUI/DWI Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your theft charge. By appointment only.