Theft Defense Lawyer Baltimore County — Protecting Your Rights
A theft charge in Baltimore County can lead to serious penalties, from jail time to a permanent criminal record. As a theft defense lawyer Baltimore County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the local procedures at the District Court in Towson. Our firm has documented results defending clients against larceny and stealing charges. We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore County – Towson | Maryland General Assembly
Theft in Maryland is governed by the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article (CR). The specific statute and penalties depend on the value of the property and the circumstances. Petty theft (under $100) is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail. Theft between $100 and $1,500 is also a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months incarceration. Felony theft charges apply for values over $1,500, carrying potential sentences of up to 5 years. A skilled larceny defense lawyer Baltimore County can challenge the evidence, question the valuation, or negotiate for a favorable disposition like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
For official court information, you can visit the District Court of Maryland for Baltimore County website.
- Contact a theft defense lawyer immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will review the charging documents and police report for weaknesses.
- We will represent you at your initial appearance and bail review hearing if applicable.
- Develop a defense strategy, which may involve negotiating for a PBJ, dismissal, or preparing for trial.
- If convicted, pursue expungement eligibility after the mandatory waiting period.
In Baltimore County, theft penalties range from 90 days for petty theft to 5 years for felony theft, plus fines and a permanent record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Record Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | Criminal Record | Restitution |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | Criminal Record | Restitution |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Record | Restitution, Difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Felony Record | Restitution, Severe collateral consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our combined legal experience exceeds 120 years. Firm-wide, we have handled over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Maryland theft laws and local court practices.
Our attorneys have achieved favorable results in theft-related cases. For instance, Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney with a background as a former prosecutor, has successfully negotiated dismissals and favorable plea agreements in complex larceny matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout Baltimore County, including Towson, Dundalk, Essex, Catonsville, Pikesville, Cockeysville, Reisterstown, Owings Mills, Perry Hall, White Marsh, and Timonium. If you need a stealing charge defense lawyer Baltimore County, we are accessible via I-695, I-83, and I-95.
Baltimore County Theft Defense FAQs
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 District Court in Towson. After successful probation, the case can be expunged.
Can I get my theft record expunged in Baltimore County?
It depends on the disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be eligible under the Justice Reinvestment Act. A lawyer can review your specific case.
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 District Court in Towson can negotiate for PBJ or a dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What happens after a theft arrest in Baltimore County?
After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing follows within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial in District Court for misdemeanors, or to Circuit Court for felonies.
What’s the difference between theft and robbery in Maryland?
Theft involves taking property without permission. Robbery is theft accomplished by force or threat of force. Robbery is a far more serious felony with much harsher penalties. The specific facts of your case will determine the charge.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Montgomery County. In Baltimore County, we handle related matters such as DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. 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.