410-699-0558

20 S Charles St | Suite 400 Baltimore, MD 21201
contact@terryatlaw.com

Follow us:

The Law Office of
C. James Terry, LLC

Protect Your Rights

Get the Defense You Deserve

Click for a free consultation
h1-separator-custom-icon-1

Maryland Theft Lawyer

Theft, shoplifting, robbery, and other property crimes can result in severe penalties in Maryland, ranging from fines of $500 to $25,000 or more, and incarceration sentences from 90 days to 30 years, depending on the nature of the crime. If you are facing charges for theft-related offenses, it is critical to consult with a seasoned Maryland theft lawyer who can help build a strong defense strategy. A skilled defense attorney will assess every detail of your case and utilize the best legal resources to ensure your rights are protected.

Robbery

Robbery

Robbery is a serious crime defined under Title 3, Subtitle 4 of the Maryland Criminal Law Code. If convicted, you could face a felony charge with up to 15 years in prison, depending on the circumstances of the crime. Robbery is defined as the taking of property from another person through the use of force, violence, or the threat of violence. This includes property like money, real estate, utilities, or even data. For a conviction, prosecutors must prove that the defendant intended to deprive the victim of property permanently or in such a way that it couldn’t be recovered. An experienced robbery attorney can challenge the intent and other elements of the case, offering a strong defense.

Armed Robbery

Armed robbery involves committing robbery with a dangerous weapon or the threat of a weapon, such as a firearm or knife. Being found guilty of armed robbery carries severe penalties, including up to 20 years in prison.

Carjacking

Carjacking, defined under Section 3-405, involves forcibly taking someone’s motor vehicle through violence, force, or threats. Armed carjacking is an even more serious charge with a felony conviction and up to 30 years in prison. This penalty can run consecutively with sentences for other crimes committed during the carjacking.

Theft

Theft in Maryland covers various offenses under Title 7, Subtitle 1 of the criminal code. This includes embezzlement, larceny, shoplifting, false pretenses, and receiving stolen property. A theft charge requires intent; if you unknowingly purchase stolen goods, you may not be charged, but if you should have known they were stolen, you could face theft charges. Maryland law also defines how the value of stolen property is determined. Theft of goods or services is categorized based on their market value at the time of the crime.

Penalties for Theft

Penalties for theft depend largely on the value of the property involved. If the value exceeds $1,000, the penalties can include a felony conviction, up to 10 years in prison, and fines up to $10,000. For thefts exceeding $100,000, the sentence can be up to 25 years in prison, with a fine of up to $25,000. Lesser thefts can be misdemeanors, but repeat offenders face even harsher sentences.

Motor Vehicle Theft

Motor vehicle theft, governed under Section 7-105, involves the unlawful taking of a vehicle without the owner’s consent. This crime is treated as a felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000.

Defenses to Theft Crimes

Several defenses may apply to theft charges, including:
  • Believing you had the right to control or obtain the property
  • Acting in good faith, assuming you had the right to the property
  • Taking property from a spouse, provided you weren’t living separately
  • Having prior knowledge of a trade secret or obtaining it from a legitimate source

How a Maryland Theft Lawyer Can Help

Theft charges can significantly affect your future, including your ability to secure employment, housing, or loans. Whether facing a misdemeanor or felony, a Maryland theft lawyer can provide the strong defense you need. Your attorney will examine every aspect of the case to protect your constitutional rights and fight for a reduction in charges or even case dismissal.

Contact our qualified Maryland theft lawyers today to discuss how to proceed with your defense.

Theft Lawyer

Free Case Evaluation

Don’t Risk Your Future or Your Freedom...
CALL US TODAY 410-699-0558