Maryland Theft Lawyer

Maryland Theft Offenses

The Maryland Criminal Code lists five separate theft offenses. First, petty theft is a misdemeanor offense that typically encompasses the crime of shoplifting. The maximum penalty for petty theft is 90 days in jail and/or a $500.00 fine. Second, misdemeanor theft is a slightly more serious offense that carries a maximum penalty of 18 months in jail and/or a $400.00 fine. Misdemeanor theft involves the taking of property that has a value of $100.00 to $1,000.00.

The Maryland Criminal Code also lists felony theft offenses where the value of the stolen property exceeds $1,000.00. For merchandise valued over $1,000.00 but less than $10,000.00 carries a legal maximum penalty of 10 years in jail. Theft of an item with a value greater than $10,000.00 but less than $100,000.00 carries a legal maximum penalty of 15 years in jail. Finally, for theft of items valued at more than $100,000.00, the Maryland Criminal Code carries a maximum penalty of 25 years in jail.

Additional theft offenses exist for obtaining the money, goods, or services of another through deceptive means. In most cases, the State must prove that the accused intended to deprive the owner of their property. While it is often difficult to prove one’s intent, the judge or jury will look to the surrounding circumstances to infer the defendant’s intent. For example, if someone conceals items down their pants and exits a retail store without paying, it is fairly easy to infer that the person intended to deprive the store of the property without paying. A case like that is not difficult for the government to prove.

Maryland Fraud Attorney

Fraud is a serious offense in Maryland. Getting arrested for fraud can similarly cause embarrassment, potential loss of liberty, fines, and/or restitution. Provisions of Maryland law make paying back double the value of the stolen goods part of restitution. If you or a friend or loved one have been arrested or are under investigation for fraud, it’s important to contact a qualified and experienced Maryland fraud lawyer.

The Maryland Criminal Code Title 8 sets out the requirements for convicting someone of a fraud offense. The law divides fraud in Maryland into different categories depending on the facts and circumstances of the offense. Writing bad checks, committing financial fraud, counterfeiting, credit card fraud, and identity fraud are all different types of fraud crimes in Maryland, among other categories. The Maryland Code also criminalizes healthcare fraud and public benefit fraud, which include things like unemployment insurance, Medicaid, and food stamps.

Can a Theft Lawyer Help Clear or Expunge My Criminal Record?

Yes, a theft attorney can be invaluable for individuals aiming to clear or expunge theft charges from their criminal records. Convictions, be they from motor vehicle theft, theft that caused bodily injury to the victim, or other theft-related offenses, can linger on a person’s record with potentially detrimental consequences, especially concerning employment, housing, or any situation requiring background checks. 

Engaging a seasoned theft attorney from a reputable law office offers guidance through the intricacies of the expungement process. By expunging these criminal charges, individuals can reclaim a degree of normalcy in their lives. 

Anyone looking to understand their post-conviction options or currently facing theft charges should consider a consultation with a law office, ensuring their rights remain protected and they receive the best possible legal defense.