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. leverages former prosecutor insight to build strong defenses.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Washington County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, theft is defined as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend heavily on the value of the property involved and the specific circumstances. Charges can range from a misdemeanor for theft under $100 to a felony for theft over $1,500, with penalties escalating accordingly. A skilled larceny defense lawyer Washington County can challenge the evidence of intent and value, which are critical elements the prosecution must prove.
For official statute details, review Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104 (official Maryland General Assembly). Court procedures are handled at the District Court of MD for Washington County for misdemeanors and the Washington County Circuit Court for felonies.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence to identify weaknesses.
- We will challenge the prosecution’s valuation of the property to seek a reduction in charge severity.
- Negotiate for a favorable disposition, such as a dismissal, PBJ, or reduced charge.
- Prepare for trial if a satisfactory plea agreement cannot be reached.
- If convicted, advocate for minimal penalties and explore expungement options post-case.
In Washington County, theft penalties vary by value: under $100 is up to 90 days; $100-$1,500 is a misdemeanor up to 6 months; $1,500-$25,000 is a felony up to 5 years; and over $100,000 can lead to up to 20 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, possible 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, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Theft $25,000-$100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Severe felony record, substantial restitution |
| Theft over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Lengthy imprisonment, major life consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. This depth of experience is crucial when building a defense against theft charges, where the details of intent and evidence are paramount.
Our approach to theft defense is proactive and detail-oriented. We scrutinize every aspect of the case, from the legality of the stop or search to the accuracy of the property valuation. Firm-wide, SRIS has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For instance, in past cases, our team, including Mr. Sris, has successfully argued for reduced charges based on flawed evidence, skilled to dismissals or favorable plea agreements that avoid jail time.
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 Maryland location serves clients throughout Washington County, including Hagerstown, Boonsboro, and Williamsport. We are familiar with the local courts and prosecutors, providing accessible representation as your theft defense lawyer Washington County. Contact us 24/7 to discuss your case.
FAQs: Theft Charges in Washington County, MD
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, avoiding a formal conviction. It is available for many misdemeanor and some felony theft cases at the District Court of MD for Washington County. After successful probation, the case may be eligible for expungement.
Can a theft charge be expunged from my record in Washington County?
It depends. Expungement is available 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 Maryland’s Justice Reinvestment Act. Eligibility is case-specific and requires a petition to 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 penalties up to 6 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. An attorney can negotiate for PBJ or a dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation. The value of the property alleged will directly impact the charge and potential consequences.
What is the difference between theft and robbery in Maryland?
Theft involves taking property without force. Robbery is theft accomplished by force or threat of force and is a much more serious felony. A stealing charge defense lawyer Washington County can explain the specific elements of your charge and the associated penalties, which are significantly higher for robbery.
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 and protecting your rights during the initial court appearances.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on theft defense in Washington County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.