Maryland Theft Lawyer

Defense Attorney with More than 20 Years of Experience

Burglary, shoplifting, and embezzlement can all be considered a theft crime. While each of these crimes is unique, there can be potentially life-altering punishments that you can face if you are found guilty. Having an established and knowledgeable Charles County criminal defense attorney can provide you with sound legal advice and representation. Our firm at The Law Office of Robert R. Castro can provide our clients with dedicated legal counsel along with an in-depth investigation into their case.

Variations of Theft Crimes

Classification for Theft Crime Punishments

If you are being charged with a shoplifting, you could be facing a maximum penalty of $500 and 90 days in jail. A misdemeanor theft charge can result in a punishment of five years in jail and $5,000. Stealing more than $1,000 in property can result in a felony charge and a maximum penalty ranging from 10 to 25 years in prison.

What You Should Know About Theft Charges in Maryland

Types of Theft Charges We Commonly See

Maryland defines theft broadly, covering a range of conduct, from taking physical property to unlawfully controlling funds or services. Many people don’t realize that even a relatively low-dollar offense can trigger long-term consequences. Theft doesn’t always involve breaking into a property or holding someone up. It includes shoplifting, keeping property mistakenly delivered, or using deception to obtain goods.

Charges may arise from miscommunication, shared access to an account, or even being in the wrong place at the wrong time. We regularly represent individuals facing returned merchandise allegations, business property disputes, and unauthorized credit card use. A skilled Maryland theft attorney can clarify what the prosecution needs to prove and help build a defense that addresses the legal and practical issues.

Factors That Determine How Theft Is Charged

Theft classifications in Maryland are primarily based on the property’s value. Less than $100 may result in a citation. Between $100 and $1,500 is often charged as a misdemeanor. Anything over that becomes a felony with increasingly severe consequences.

Prior convictions, allegations of theft from vulnerable individuals, or signs of organized theft can increase the penalties. A Maryland theft lawyer will review your situation to determine if the charges fit the evidence or if they can be reduced.

Penalties That Come With Theft Convictions

The potential punishment for a theft conviction depends on the charge and the circumstances. Misdemeanors carry up to five years in jail and thousands of dollars in fines. Felony theft can result in prison terms ranging from 10 to 25 years, depending on the amount involved and whether force or fraud was used.

In addition to incarceration, many convictions require restitution to the alleged victim. That means repaying the value of the property or item taken. Theft convictions also appear on background checks, often affecting job offers, housing applications, or professional licensing. A knowledgeable, accomplished theft crimes lawyer in Waldorf will take all of this into account when preparing your defense and weighing your legal options.

Shoplifting Offenses and Their Legal Impact

Shoplifting covers more than walking out with unpaid items. It includes altering tags, hiding merchandise, or using deception to obtain goods. Charges can still be filed even if the item was never removed from the store.

Video footage, security reports, and store policies often come into play. A shoplifting defense attorney in Maryland can challenge how the store handled the situation and whether the evidence justifies a criminal charge.

Building a Defense Strategy That Fits the Facts

Not every theft case involves direct evidence. Some revolve around disputed intent, shared property, or unclear circumstances. We’ve handled many cases in which our clients didn’t know the property was stolen or thought they had permission to use it.

An experienced Maryland theft attorney will gather all available facts, identify procedural errors, and look for grounds to negotiate dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.

Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Case

After being charged, many people panic and say too much to law enforcement or others involved. Any statements you make—whether during arrest, online, or to a store employee—can be used as evidence. Another common mistake is failing to appear in court or ignoring deadlines, which may lead to warrants or additional penalties.

Our advice: say nothing and consult legal counsel immediately. Even if you think the situation is minor, having a Maryland theft lawyer involved helps ensure you don’t give the prosecution more than they already have.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can theft charges be dropped in Maryland?
Yes, but only the prosecutor has that authority. Your attorney can present evidence or negotiate to dismiss or reduce the charges.

Is it still theft if I didn’t leave the store with the item?
Possibly. Maryland law allows charges to be filed with clear intent to steal, even if the item wasn’t removed.

Will I go to jail for first-time shoplifting?
Not always. Depending on the facts, first-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs, community service, or probation.

What happens if I’m charged with theft over $1,500?
That may be considered felony theft, and depending on the value and your record, it could result in up to five to ten years in prison.

Can I seal or expunge a theft conviction in Maryland?
Under Maryland law, some theft charges may be eligible for expungement, especially if they were dismissed or resulted in a not guilty finding.

Charged with a Theft Crime in Maryland? Call Our Firm for Representation

Being charged with any crime can be a scary and confusing moment for anyone. Our firm at The Law Office Robert R. Castro, we can help guide you through the legal process while providing you with assertive defense representation. Our dedicated attorney can take the time to thoroughly review the facts, evidence, witness statements, police procedure, and findings of our investigation to develop an effective legal strategy. With over two decades of experience as a legal professional, you can receive honest feedback about your case.