Are you facing theft charges in Montgomery County, Maryland? A conviction for theft can affect more than just your immediate freedom. It can damage your reputation, limit future employment opportunities, and leave you with a permanent criminal record that follows you for life. That’s why it’s crucial to take these charges seriously from the very beginning.
At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, our team of Montgomery County theft crimes lawyers brings over 125 years of combined legal experience to every case we handle. We know the tactics prosecutors use, and we understand the stress and uncertainty you are facing. Our goal is to protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
Contact us today at (301) 364-3195 to schedule a free case review with a Montgomery County theft crimes attorney.
Why Choose Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help With Theft Crimes Charges in Montgomery County?
Theft crimes can have serious consequences. The more you’re accused of taking, the greater the penalties you’ll face. That’s why you need an experienced Montgomery County theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights and seek a favorable resolution to the charges.
Here’s why clients throughout Montgomery County, MD, turn to us:
- With over a century of combined practice, our attorneys have successfully defended countless clients accused of theft and property crimes.
- We know how state statutes define theft crimes and how prosecutors pursue convictions.
- We carefully investigate the facts, challenge the state’s evidence, and pursue every available defense strategy.
- We tailor our approach to your unique circumstances and goals.
- We prepare each case as if it will go to trial.
Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer.
Theft Crimes in Maryland
Under Maryland law, theft is broadly defined as taking or exerting unauthorized control over another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. This covers a wide range of conduct, from shoplifting to large-scale financial crimes.
Some of the most common theft-related charges in Montgomery County include:
- Shoplifting – Taking merchandise from a store without paying or altering price tags.
- Burglary – Entering a building with the intent to commit theft or another crime inside.
- Robbery – Theft involving the use or threat of force.
- Auto Theft – Stealing or unlawfully using a motor vehicle.
- Fraud and Theft by Deception – Including credit card fraud, identity theft, or passing bad checks.
- Embezzlement – Misappropriating money or property entrusted to you by an employer or client.
- Possession of Stolen Property – Having property you knew or should have known was stolen.
The seriousness of the charge depends on the type of offense and the value of the property at issue.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in Maryland
The consequences of a theft conviction in Montgomery County vary widely.
Maryland law categorizes theft crimes based on the value of the property:
- Theft Under $100 (Misdemeanor): Up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $500.
- Theft Between $100 and $1,500 (Misdemeanor): Up to six months to one year in jail and fines up to $500–$1,000.
- Theft Between $1,500 and $25,000 (Felony): Up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- Theft Between $25,000 and $100,000 (Felony): Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
- Theft Over $100,000 (Felony): Up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
In addition to prison time and fines, a conviction leaves you with a criminal record that can affect housing, employment, professional licensing, and even immigration status.
Possible Defenses Against Theft Charges
Every theft case is different, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific facts of your case.
Potential defenses may include:
- Mistaken Identity – You were not the person who committed the theft.
- Lack of Intent – You did not intend to deprive the owner of their property permanently.
- Rightful Ownership or Claim of Right – You had a legitimate belief that the property belonged to you.
- Insufficient Evidence – The prosecution lacks evidence to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Illegal Search or Seizure – Evidence was obtained in violation of your constitutional rights and may be inadmissible in court.
At Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys, we carefully examine every detail of your case, from the initial police stop to the evidence collected, to identify the strongest defenses to your charges.
Contact Our Montgomery County Theft Crimes Lawyers Today for a Free Consultation
A theft charge can alter the course of your life. Your reputation, your freedom, and your future are too important to leave to chance.
The Montgomery County theft crimes attorneys at Alpert Schreyer Criminal Defense Attorneys are committed to fighting for you. We’re ready to put more than 125 years of combined legal experience behind your case as we challenge the prosecution’s case against you. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
