Theft Defense Lawyer in St. Mary’s County, Maryland — What Are Your Options?
A theft charge in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, is a serious matter under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, with penalties ranging from 90 days to 5 years in jail. As a theft defense lawyer St Marys County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. leverages former prosecutor insight to build strong defenses for clients facing larceny and stealing charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County | Maryland General Assembly
In Maryland, theft is defined as the unauthorized control over property with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property involved. For a theft defense lawyer St Marys County, understanding these classifications is the first step in building your defense. The statute governing theft is Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. Misdemeanor theft cases are heard at the District Court of MD for St. Mary’s County in Leonardtown, while felony theft cases proceed to the St. Mary’s County Circuit Court.
- Initial Appearance & Bail: After arrest, you will see a District Court commissioner who sets bail. A bail review hearing occurs within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress if applicable, and negotiate with the State’s Attorney for dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) or a stet.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in District Court or, for felonies, a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In St. Mary’s County, theft penalties are determined by the value of the property: under $100 is a misdemeanor with up to 90 days in jail; $100 to $1,500 is a misdemeanor with up to 6 months; and $1,500 to $25,000 is a felony with up to 5 years imprisonment.
| Offense | 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-$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 | Severe felony record, significant restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, 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 with over 93% favorable outcomes. We understand the local procedures in St. Mary’s County courts and the strategies employed by the State’s Attorney’s office.
Our firm has a documented history of achieving favorable results in theft cases. For example, we have secured dismissals (Nolle Prosequi) and reductions for clients. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring a multi-layered defense approach.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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.
Our Rockville location serves clients throughout St. Mary’s County, including Leonardtown, Lexington Park, and California. As a theft defense lawyer near St. Mary’s County, we are accessible for clients needing representation at the courthouse on Leonard Hall Drive.
Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges in St. Mary’s County
What is the difference between theft and larceny in Maryland?
In Maryland, “theft” is the modern statutory term that includes the old common-law crime of “larceny.” As a larceny defense lawyer St. Mary’s County, we defend against charges under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104, which defines theft as unlawfully taking or exercising control over property to deprive the owner.
Can I avoid a conviction for a first-time theft charge in St. Mary’s County?
Yes, it is possible. For eligible first-time offenders, Maryland offers Probation Before Judgment (PBJ). If you successfully complete probation, a guilty finding is not entered on your public record. An attorney can argue for PBJ or a dismissal based on the case facts.
What is a “stet” in a Maryland theft case?
A stet is when the State’s Attorney places your case on the inactive docket, usually for a period like one year. If you comply with conditions (e.g., community service, restitution), the charges are typically dismissed. It is a common negotiation outcome to avoid trial.
Do I need a lawyer for a shoplifting charge under $100?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor theft under $100 carries up to 90 days in jail and a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can seek PBJ, community service, or a dismissal to protect your record and future.
How does a theft charge affect my employment?
A theft conviction, especially a felony, will appear on background checks and can lead to job loss or difficulty finding employment. Securing a PBJ or dismissal is critical to minimizing this long-term impact.
Can theft charges be expunged in Maryland?
Yes, under the Justice Reinvestment Act, expungement is available for theft cases that resulted in acquittal, dismissal, stet, nolle prosequi, or PBJ (after a 3-year waiting period). A lawyer can guide you through the petition process in St. Mary’s County.
For more information, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Anne Arundel County and with related matters such as DUI defense in St. Mary’s 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.