Carroll County Theft Lawyer
Maryland theft law covers a variety of crimes, from the simple taking of property, such as shoplifting, to more violent crimes such as carjacking.
Every theft crime has the basic premise that the person charged stole property that they were not entitled to, with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the property of the use of the property. If you have been accused of theft, you should consult a Carroll County theft lawyer to explore your best options. A qualified criminal defense attorney can help mitigate or reduce penalties if the situation calls for it.
Types of Theft Offenses in Maryland
To be charged with theft, a person is alleged to have taken the property of another. Each theft crime has unique elements that constitute the illegal act, which are set forth in Maryland Criminal Law Codes. The most common offenses defended include:
- Shoplifting, Petty Theft or Misdemeanor Theft – the taking of property with a value of $100 or less (petty theft) or from $100 to $1,000, (misdemeanor theft). Shoplifting can be charged under either of these categories, depending on the value of goods taken. Any person who has suffered 2 prior convictions of theft may have the third offense charged as a felony, and serve up to 5 years in prison
- Grand Theft- is punished based on the value of goods or property taken. Values over $1,000 to $10,000 are a felony with up to 10 years in prison. Values of $10,000 to $100,000 can result in up to 15 years of incarceration. Values over $100,000 can be charged up to 25 years in prison
- Car Theft – taking of a vehicle without permission that can result in 5 years of incarceration
- Carjacking – taking a vehicle from the person or in the presence of its rightful owner by force, threat of force, or violence, is subject to 30 years in prison
- Robbery – is the taking of property by force or the threat of force or violence, with a punishment of up to 15 years in prison
- Armed Robbery – is similar to robbery, but with the use of a weapon, and punishment is up to 20 years in prison
Theft Crimes Involving Unique Conduct or Relationships
Crimes involving unique circumstances with the other party are still charged and considered theft crimes. They may be charged as felonies or misdemeanors, depending on the facts of the case. The kinds of cases that a theft lawyer in Carroll County often sees are:
- Embezzlement – taking the property of another while entrusted with its safekeeping, usually from an employer
- Larceny – another term for theft, usually involves taking of personal property
- Theft by Forgery – using an altered or wholly fraudulent written instrument to deprive another of their rightful property
- Receiving Stolen Property – taking possession of property that a person knew or should have known was stolen
Learn How a Carroll County Theft Attorney Can Help
When serving the area, a Carrol County theft lawyer examines the cases and applies the defenses of constitutional importance. In addition to this, they know that theft crimes can fall under a variety of statues. They know the stress that results in an arrest and charge, and they aim to try to reduce the charge or dismiss it altogether.
If you are facing legal repercussions due to a theft charge, contact a Carroll County theft lawyer who will mitigate on your behalf and ensure the best possible outcome.