Theft Defense Lawyer Baltimore County — Protecting Your Rights and Future
A theft charge in Baltimore County 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 Baltimore County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. leverages deep local court knowledge to build your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding Theft and Larceny Laws in Maryland
Theft, often called larceny, is defined in Maryland law as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The specific statute, Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, classifies the offense based on the value of the property involved and the circumstances. Penalties escalate sharply with value: theft under $100 is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail, while theft over $100,000 is a felony carrying up to 20 years imprisonment. A skilled larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County understands these nuances and how prosecutors in Towson apply them.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. This foundational experience in prosecution provides a critical advantage in anticipating the state’s strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s theft statutes, visit the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Baltimore County cases can be found on the District Court of Maryland website for the Towson location.
Local Court Process for Theft Charges in Towson
If you are charged with theft in Baltimore County, your case will begin at the District Court at 120 East Chesapeake Avenue in Towson. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore County will prosecute the case. Maryland law provides several potential dispositions short of a conviction, including Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which avoids a formal conviction on your record if you successfully complete probation.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court (misdemeanors) or a jury trial in Circuit Court (felonies).
- Sentencing or PBJ: If found guilty, the judge will impose sentence. Your attorney will argue for alternatives like PBJ, especially for first-time offenses.
- Expungement: If eligible, you can petition to have the record expunged after a waiting period (3 years for PBJ).
Potential Penalties for Theft in Baltimore County
In Baltimore County, a theft charge carries penalties based on the property’s value, ranging from 90 days in jail for petty theft to 20 years in prison for grand theft.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment. |
| Theft $100 – $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Same as above, possible restitution. |
| Theft $1,500 – $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights, professional license issues. |
| Theft $25,000 – $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Severe long-term collateral consequences. |
| Theft over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Maximum penalties, significant restitution. |
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 has grown to handle thousands of cases across multiple states. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. We understand that a theft charge can derail your life, affecting employment, housing, and your reputation. Our approach is direct and focused on protecting your future. We draw on the extensive experience of our team, including former prosecutors who know how the other side builds a case.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While results are always case-specific, this history demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. In Baltimore County, we actively defend clients against theft and related charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every client benefits from our deepest experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Baltimore County
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. We are accessible via I-695, I-83, I-95, and other major routes.
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 Defense in Baltimore County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Baltimore County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors at the Towson District Court. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my theft record expunged in Baltimore County?
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. Eligibility is complex and requires a legal analysis of your specific case and disposition.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Baltimore County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft carries up to 6 months in jail and creates a permanent record. An attorney at the Towson District Court can negotiate for PBJ or dismissal, protect your rights during questioning, and challenge the state’s evidence regarding the value of the property, which directly impacts the charge severity.
What is the difference between a theft defense lawyer and a larceny defense lawyer?
In Maryland, “theft” is the statutory term that includes what was historically called “larceny.” There is no legal difference. A theft defense lawyer Baltimore County and a larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County handle cases under the same Maryland theft statutes. Both terms refer to a lawyer defending against charges of unlawfully taking property.
What should I do if I am arrested for stealing in Baltimore County?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not discuss the case with anyone until you speak with an attorney. Contact a stealing charge defense lawyer Baltimore County immediately. Then, write down everything you remember about the incident and the arrest. Your attorney will use this information to begin building your defense strategy.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current 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.