Theft Defense Lawyer Howard County — What Are Your Options?
Theft charges in Howard County, Maryland, range from misdemeanors to felonies under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article, with penalties from 90 days to 25 years. A theft defense lawyer Howard County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge evidence and seek dismissal or Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Howard County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, theft is defined under the Criminal Law Article of the state code. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property and the circumstances. A theft defense lawyer Howard County understands that even a misdemeanor theft charge can have serious, long-term consequences for your record, employment, and housing. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on building a strong defense strategy from the initial consultation.
Maryland Theft Laws and Howard County Court Process
Theft charges are prosecuted under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article. You can review the official statutes on the Maryland General Assembly website. In Howard County, all misdemeanor theft cases and initial felony appearances are handled at the District Court of MD for Howard County located at 3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City. Felony jury trials proceed to Howard County Circuit Court.
- Initial Appearance: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail.
- Arraignment: You are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation/PBJ: Your lawyer negotiates for a PBJ, reduced charge, or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court for felonies.
- Sentencing/Expungement: If convicted, your lawyer argues for minimal penalties. If eligible, they can later file for expungement.
In Howard County, 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 imprisonment 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, difficulty finding employment |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Same as above |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights, ineligibility for certain loans |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Severe long-term collateral consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Theft Defense Lawyer in Howard County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to each case. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of local court procedures. For instance, we know that securing a PBJ disposition in Howard County can be a critical first step toward protecting your future. A larceny defense lawyer Howard County from our team will examine every detail, from the legality of the search to the valuation of the alleged stolen property.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide track includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. While specific results depend on unique case facts, our team, including Mr. Sris, strategically challenges the prosecution’s evidence. We look for weaknesses in identification, chain of custody, and intent to secure the best possible result, whether that is a dismissal, PBJ, or charge reduction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Theft Defense Lawyer Near Howard County, MD
Our Maryland location serves clients throughout Howard County. We represent individuals in Columbia, Ellicott City, Elkridge, Clarksville, Highland, Savage, Jessup, and Laurel. If you need a stealing charge defense lawyer Howard County, we are accessible via I-95, Route 29, and Route 32.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
FAQs: Theft Charges in Howard County, MD
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for theft in Howard County?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If completed successfully, it avoids a formal theft conviction on your record. It is available for most misdemeanor thefts and some felonies at the District Court of MD for Howard County.
Can a theft charge be expunged in Howard County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for theft case dismissals, acquittals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, and PBJ dispositions after a 3-year waiting period. Some non-violent theft convictions may also be expunged under the Justice Reinvestment Act. A lawyer can file the petition in the Howard County court where the case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft of $100-$1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. An attorney can negotiate for a PBJ to avoid a conviction, challenge the evidence, or seek a dismissal. The long-term impact on your record makes legal counsel essential.
What happens after a theft arrest in Howard County?
After arrest, you see a commissioner for bail, have a bail review hearing within 24 hours if held, then face arraignment and trial. Misdemeanors are tried in District Court; felonies go to Circuit Court. A theft defense lawyer Howard County guides you through each step to protect your rights.
What are the penalties for shoplifting in Maryland?
Shoplifting (theft from a store) is penalized based on the value taken, identical to standard theft penalties. Stores may also pursue civil restitution. An experienced theft defense lawyer Howard County can often negotiate with prosecutors for a favorable resolution.
Contact a Howard County Theft Defense Attorney Today
If you are facing theft charges in Ellicott City or Columbia, time is critical. Contact a theft defense lawyer Howard County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a 24/7 consultation. We will review your case and outline your defense options. Also explore our related pages: Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer, Montgomery County Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Howard County DUI Lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.