Theft Defense Lawyer Kent County — Protecting Your Rights in Maryland
A theft charge in Kent County, Maryland, is a serious matter that can lead to jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, theft is classified based on the value of the property, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 25 years in prison.
Maryland Theft Laws and Penalties
Theft, often referred to as larceny, is defined under Maryland law as the unauthorized taking or control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The specific statute governing theft offenses is found in the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend primarily on the value of the property involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of how prosecutors in Kent County approach theft cases, from shoplifting to felony theft schemes.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Maryland’s theft statutes, refer to the Maryland General Assembly website (Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104). Court procedures and local rules for Kent County cases can be found on the Maryland Courts website for the District Court of MD for Kent County.
Strategic Defense for Theft Charges in Kent County
In Kent County, the State’s Attorney’s office prosecutes theft cases heard at the District Court on N. Cross Street in Chestertown. A critical local disposition is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can avoid a formal conviction on your record if successfully completed. Our approach as your larceny defense lawyer Kent County involves immediately challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent and value—the two pillars of any theft case.
- Case Assessment: We immediately secure all police reports, witness statements, and store security footage (if applicable) to evaluate the strength of the case against you.
- Value Disputation: We work to accurately determine the property’s fair market value, which can directly lower the charge classification from a felony to a misdemeanor.
- Intent Defense: We build a defense showing lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, which is a required element for a theft conviction.
- Negotiation for PBJ or Diversion: We negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a favorable disposition like PBJ, a stet (inactive docket), or entry into a diversion program to avoid a conviction.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare to vigorously defend you at trial in the Kent County District Court.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Maryland
In Kent County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property: theft under $100 is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail, while theft over $1,500 is a felony carrying up to 5 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, 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 over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, significant restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Lawyer in Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and 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%. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we fight relentlessly for every client, whether negotiating a dismissal or taking a case to trial.
Our team also includes firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice who provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in theft cases involving financial records or digital evidence.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific local case counts are proprietary, our firm-wide results demonstrate our commitment to favorable outcomes. We have successfully defended clients against theft charges by getting evidence suppressed, charges reduced, or cases dismissed outright. In many instances, we have secured Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for our clients, allowing them to avoid a permanent conviction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Kent County, Maryland
Our Maryland office represents clients facing theft charges in Kent County. We serve clients in Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton. Our Rockville location is strategically located to serve clients across Maryland, including the Eastern Shore.
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 Kent County
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Kent 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 and many felonies at the District Court of MD for Kent County. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a theft charge expunged from my record in Kent County?
It depends on the final disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after a 3-year wait). Certain non-violent theft convictions may also be eligible for expungement under the Justice Reinvestment Act. The petition is filed with the court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Kent County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft in Maryland carries significant penalties—theft of $100-$1,500 can result in up to 6 months in jail. An experienced stealing charge defense lawyer Kent County can negotiate for PBJ, seek a dismissal, or challenge the evidence, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without legal representation.
What happens after an arrest for theft in Kent County?
After an arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained. Your case will then proceed to arraignment and trial in District Court for misdemeanors, or to a preliminary hearing and then Circuit Court for felonies.
How does a theft defense lawyer Kent County challenge the charges?
A defense lawyer challenges the prosecution’s ability to prove you had the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property. They also contest the alleged value of the property, which determines the charge level. Lawyers may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or witness identifications.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides strong defense for DUI/DWI in Kent County, Criminal Defense in Montgomery County, and Criminal Defense across Maryland.
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.