Theft Defense Lawyer Washington County — Protecting Your Rights
A theft charge in Washington County, Maryland, is a serious matter under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 20 years. As a theft defense lawyer Washington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for larceny and stealing charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
Theft, often called larceny, involves the unlawful taking of property belonging to another with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Maryland law classifies theft based on the value of the property and the circumstances. A conviction can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A skilled theft defense lawyer Washington County can challenge the evidence, question the intent, and work to secure a favorable outcome such as dismissal, Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), or a reduced charge.
For a larceny defense lawyer Washington County, contact our team. We also defend against stealing charges as a stealing charge defense lawyer Washington County.
Maryland Theft Laws and Penalties
Theft in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The severity of the charge depends primarily on the value of the stolen property:
- Theft under $100: A misdemeanor punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Theft between $100 and $1,500: A misdemeanor punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $500.
- Theft between $1,500 and $25,000: A felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Theft of $25,000 to $100,000: A felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Theft over $100,000: A felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
Additional factors like the type of property (e.g., a firearm or motor vehicle) or the defendant’s prior record can enhance penalties. You can review the official Maryland theft statute (Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104) for details. For court procedures, visit the District Court of Maryland for Washington County website.
In Washington County, a theft charge can carry penalties from 90 days in jail for petty theft to 20 years in prison for theft over $100,000, plus substantial fines and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Theft $25,000-$100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Theft over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $15,000 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Theft Defense Approach in Washington County
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. We understand that a theft charge can upend your life, affecting employment, housing, and your reputation. Our defense strategy is built on meticulous case analysis, identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and advocating for your rights at every stage.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: We listen to your account, review any charging documents or evidence, and explain your legal options.
- Investigation & Evidence Challenge: We scrutinize police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage to challenge the elements of the theft charge, such as intent or ownership.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: We file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence and engage in negotiations with the State’s Attorney to seek a dismissal, PBJ, or charge reduction.
- Trial Preparation & Defense: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a strong defense for trial at the District Court of MD for Washington County.
- Post-Disposition Support: We guide you through probation requirements and advise on eligibility for expungement after the waiting period.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific Washington County theft results are part of our confidential case files, our approach has consistently secured positive resolutions such as dismissals (Nolle Prosequi), PBJ dispositions, and charge reductions for clients facing theft and larceny allegations. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Washington County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients in Washington County, including Hagerstown, Boonsboro, Williamsport, Smithsburg, Sharpsburg, Hancock, and Funkstown. We are accessible via I-81 and I-70.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Maryland
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges in Washington County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for a theft charge in Washington County?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you complete probation successfully, you avoid a formal conviction on your record. PBJ is available for most misdemeanor thefts and many felonies at the District Court of MD for Washington County.
Can a theft charge be expunged from my record in Washington County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ dispositions (after a 3-year waiting period). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. The petition is filed in the court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Washington County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft carries significant penalties—up to 6 months in jail and a permanent record. An attorney can negotiate for a PBJ or dismissal at the District Court of MD for Washington County, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What is the difference between theft and larceny in Maryland?
Maryland’s criminal code uses the term “theft” to encompass what was historically called larceny, as well as embezzlement, false pretenses, and receiving stolen property. In practice, “theft” and “larceny” are often used interchangeably, and both require a strong defense.
What should I do if I am arrested for theft in Washington County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you have spoken with your lawyer. Contact a theft defense lawyer Washington County as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
Related Pages: For other legal needs, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub, or learn about DUI defense in Washington County. We also serve neighboring areas like Frederick County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.