Ellicott City Theft Lawyer
If you’ve been accused of a theft- or fraud-related crime in Howard County, Maryland, call an Ellicott City theft lawyer with our firm to discuss your defense strategy. We have experience handling a wide variety of theft cases in Howard county and in other Maryland jurisdictions and we are prepared to help clients by building a defense custom-suited to their unique set of needs. Call a criminal lawyer in Ellicott City today.
What is Theft in Ellicott City, MD?
Maryland law defines what is commonly referred to as “theft” as the criminal offense of “larceny.” In basic terms, larceny, or theft, is stealing. Taking another person’s money or property without permission. Some crimes of theft are classified as felonies automatically (for example, any larceny that involves the use of a firearm). However, in general, the value of the thing allegedly stolen determines whether the offense is classified as a felony or a misdemeanor. If you, or someone you love, has been accused of theft of any kind, it is important to contact a Ellicott City theft lawyer who can help you fight a criminal charge. Call today to speak with a criminal attorney in Ellicott City.
Common Theft Charges and Penalties
Codified from common law, Maryland Criminal Law 7-104 through 7-107 defines the varying degrees of larceny in Maryland. Basically, if the stolen item is valued above $1,000, it is a felony, and if it is valued below $1,000, it is a misdemeanor. Thus, the difference between major and minor offenses can be a fine line, and the penalties associated with each vary accordingly. This underscores the importance of having an experienced Maryland defense attorney on your case when facing such charges.
Larceny crimes are punishable by jail time and extensive fines. Penalties for theft crimes may include financial restitution to the victim, fines, and/or incarceration. Theft under $100 is classified as a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. The penalties associated with felony thefts are more severe, punishable by up to 25 years in prison and/or up to $25,000 in fines. As noted, both offenses may also include restitution of damages to the victim or victims.
Crimes that could be considered in the general category of theft and may warrant attention from a Ellicott City theft lawyer include:
- Burglary
- Carjacking
- Embezzlement
- Fraud
- Grand theft
- Petty theft
- Possession of stolen goods
- Robbery
- Shoplifting
Find the Right Attorney for You
If you’ve been charged with a theft crime in Maryland, consider calling our Ellicott City theft lawyers, who commonly represent people facing both misdemeanor and felony charges. In order to defend yourself from the potentially severe consequences that can accompany a misdemeanor or felony theft conviction, call our law offices today and conduct your free initial consultation. Once our Ellicott City theft attorneys understand the details of your case, it will be possible to devise a personalized defense strategy based on your unique set of personal needs and circumstances.
Call our law offices today and speak with a member of our experienced legal team to learn more.