Theft Defense Lawyer Anne Arundel County — Protecting Your Rights
A theft charge in Anne Arundel County is a serious matter under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 20 years. As a dedicated theft defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides immediate defense for larceny, shoplifting, and related charges.
Maryland Theft Law and Penalties
Theft in Maryland is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The law defines theft as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner. The classification and penalties depend entirely on the value of the property involved and the specific circumstances.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how theft statutes are applied in local courts. We analyze the prosecution’s evidence from the start.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, review Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104 (official Maryland General Assembly site). Court procedures for Anne Arundel County are managed by the District Court of MD for Anne Arundel County.
Local Court Strategy for Theft Charges
In the District Court for Anne Arundel County, the State’s Attorney’s office actively prosecutes theft cases. The court’s location at 251 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis handles all misdemeanor trials. A key local strategy involves seeking a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition, which avoids a formal conviction on your record if successfully completed.
For those charged with a stealing charge in Anne Arundel County, the process typically follows these steps:
- Initial Appearance & Bail: You will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail or releases you on personal recognizance.
- Arraignment: You formally hear the charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Resolution or Trial: The case may resolve through a plea agreement (like PBJ) or proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Expungement: If convicted, your lawyer argues for minimal penalties. If the case is dismissed or results in PBJ, we can later petition for expungement.
Theft Penalties in Anne Arundel County
In Anne Arundel County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property and prior record, with consequences ranging from a civil citation to a felony prison sentence.
| Offense / Value | 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 to under $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Theft $1,500 to under $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, restitution, difficulty finding employment/housing |
| Theft $25,000 to under $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Severe felony record, significant restitution |
| Theft $100,000+ | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Major felony, substantial restitution, asset forfeiture possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Lawyers
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on building a strong defense by examining police reports, witness statements, and store security protocols. Our former prosecutor, Kristen Fisher, understands how the State builds its case and uses that insight to defend you.
Case Results and Client Focus
Our firm-wide track record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific results are unique to each case, our approach is consistent: we work to have charges reduced or dismissed. For a stealing charge defense lawyer Anne Arundel County, having Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, available for case strategy provides an additional layer of experience. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Anne Arundel County
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Anne Arundel County, including Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Severna Park, Crofton, Odenton, Pasadena, Arnold, Gambrills, and Millersville. We are accessible via I-97, Route 50, and Route 2.
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
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Anne Arundel 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 misdemeanor thefts at the District Court in Annapolis. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get a theft charge expunged in Anne Arundel County?
It depends on the final disposition of your case. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ (after 3 years). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be eligible under the Justice Reinvestment Act. The petition is filed in the court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Anne Arundel County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft of $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at the District Court in Annapolis can negotiate for a PBJ to avoid a conviction, challenge the State’s evidence, or seek a dismissal. The potential consequences justify having legal representation.
What happens after an arrest for theft in Anne Arundel County?
After arrest, you 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 then proceeds to arraignment and either a plea negotiation or a trial. Misdemeanors are tried at the District Court; felonies go to the Circuit Court.
Can a theft charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
Yes. A skilled theft defense lawyer Anne Arundel County can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges. This may involve challenging the alleged value of the property or presenting mitigating circumstances. A reduction can significantly lower potential penalties and preserve future opportunities.
If you are facing theft or larceny charges in Anne Arundel County, contact a theft defense lawyer Anne Arundel County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your case and your defense options.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.