Theft Defense Lawyer in Kent County, Maryland — Protecting Your Rights
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 involved. As a dedicated theft defense lawyer Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Kent County | Maryland General Assembly
Understanding Theft Charges in Maryland
Theft, often referred to as larceny, is governed by Maryland’s Criminal Law Article. The severity of the charge and potential penalties depend primarily on the value of the property alleged to have been stolen. A larceny defense lawyer Kent County must understand these distinctions to effectively challenge the prosecution’s case.
For official statute information, refer to the Maryland General Assembly statutes. Court procedures and local rules can be found on the District Court of Maryland website for Kent County.
Local Court Procedures for Theft Cases in Kent County
All misdemeanor theft cases in Kent County begin at the District Court located at 103 N. Cross Street in Chestertown. The State’s Attorney for Kent County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is the availability of dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), which can avoid a formal conviction on your record if certain conditions are met.
- Initial Appearance: You will appear before a District Court commissioner who will set bail or release conditions.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress, and negotiate with the prosecutor for dismissal, reduction, or PBJ.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in District Court.
Potential Penalties for Theft in Maryland
In Kent County, theft charges carry penalties ranging from small fines to multiple years in prison, depending on the value and circumstances.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft under $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Criminal Record |
| Theft $100-$1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Criminal Record |
| Theft $1,500-$25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony Record |
| Theft over $25,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Felony Record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Theft Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand that a theft charge can impact your employment, housing, and future. Our approach is direct and focused on achieving the best possible resolution, whether through negotiation or vigorous courtroom defense.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While specific results are unique to each case, our firm’s collective experience handling theft and larceny charges is substantial. We have successfully negotiated for charges to be dropped (Nolle Prosequi), placed on the inactive docket (Stet), and for clients to receive Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) to avoid a conviction. Firm-wide, we have achieved favorable outcomes in over 93% of our documented cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team, including firm founder Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, collaborates to bring extensive resources to every client’s defense.
Contact Our Kent County Theft Defense Lawyers
Our Maryland office represents clients facing theft charges in Kent County. We serve communities including Chestertown, Rock Hall, Galena, Millington, and Betterton.
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 — meetings by appointment only.
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. If you complete probation successfully, no conviction is entered on your record. It is available for most misdemeanor theft cases at the District Court of MD for Kent County.
Can I get a theft charge expunged from my record in Kent County?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for theft cases that resulted in acquittal, dismissal, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, or PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). Some non-violent theft convictions may also be eligible under the Justice Reinvestment Act. A lawyer can file the petition in the court where your case was heard.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge in Kent County?
Yes. Even misdemeanor theft under $1,500 carries up to 6 months in jail. An experienced stealing charge defense lawyer Kent County can negotiate for PBJ or dismissal, outcomes that are difficult to achieve without representation. The long-term consequences of a theft conviction justify having a strong legal advocate.
What should I do if I am arrested for theft in Kent County?
Remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with law enforcement. Contact a theft defense lawyer Kent County as soon as possible. You will have an initial appearance before a commissioner to set bail, followed by formal charges and an arraignment in District Court.
For more information on related legal issues, see our pages on Maryland Criminal Defense, Criminal Defense in Montgomery County, and DUI Defense in Kent County.
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.