Maryland Theft Lawyer
TL;DR: Theft charges can mean jail, fines, and a lasting record. Smart defenses focus on intent, identification, search issues, and restitution. We appear in District and Circuit Courts across Maryland and work quickly to protect your job and your record. Talk with a lawyer now.
Meet Our Experienced Maryland Theft Lawyers
Max Frizalone
Experienced in defending complex theft cases, Max has successfully argued for dismissals and acquittals in Maryland courts.
- Former prosecutor in Prince George's County with deep knowledge of theft laws.
- Skilled in challenging forensic financial evidence in embezzlement and fraud cases.
Luke Woods
A seasoned trial attorney with decades of experience defending theft cases at trial.
- Former public defender with extensive knowledge of Maryland theft laws.
- Has defended high-profile theft and fraud cases with strategic legal tactics.
What counts as "theft" in Maryland?
Q: What does the law call "theft"?
A: Maryland's general theft law covers taking property without authorization, using deception to obtain property, possessing stolen goods, and obtaining services without paying. The State must prove you acted with intent to deprive the owner. See Md. Code, Crim. Law sECTION 7-104.
Q: What about a "theft scheme"?
A: Multiple takings that are part of one plan may be added together to set the charge level. That aggregation rule can move a case from misdemeanor to felony.
Penalties for theft in Maryland
| Value of property | Charge | Maximum penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Less than $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days jail and $500 fine |
| $100 to less than $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months jail and $500 fine |
| $1,500 to less than $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years and $10,000 fine |
| $25,000 to less than $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years and $15,000 fine |
| $100,000 or more | Felony | Up to 20 years and $25,000 fine |
Penalties can also include restitution, probation, and collateral fallout for jobs, licensure, and immigration. Learn how judges think about sentencing and mitigation in our page on bail review and pretrial release.
Common Maryland theft cases we handle
- Retail and self checkout cases. See our focused page on shoplifting defense.
- Employee theft and embezzlement. Often document heavy and intent driven. We challenge loss totals and paper trails. Visit our page on embezzlement charges.
- Credit card and online fraud. When allegations involve devices or logins, start here: cybercrime and fraud defense.
- Car and parts theft. For vehicle specific charges, see motor vehicle theft.
- Rental return issues. If a return date was missed, read more about failure to return rental property.
How we beat theft charges
Q: Can lack of intent win a theft case?
A: Yes. A mistake, misunderstanding at checkout, or a reasonable belief you had a right to the property can defeat the intent element.
Q: What if the State's proof is thin?
A: Many cases rely on assumptions or unclear video. We press the State on identification, chain of custody, and whether the loss value is proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Q: Can search issues help?
A: If police overstepped, we file motions to suppress. Excluding seized items can collapse the State's case.
Q: Will restitution help me?
A: Early repayment, receipts, and verified loss figures can support dismissals, reductions, or Probation Before Judgment outcomes when the facts allow.
What to do in the first 10 days
- Do not contact store security or the alleged victim on your own.
- Save receipts and bank statements. They matter for value and intent.
- Write down names of witnesses and locations of cameras.
- Call us early for a plan that covers court, restitution, and job concerns. Start with a free consultation.
Why FrizWoods
- Former prosecutors who know how theft cases are charged and negotiated.
- Trial ready for District Court and jury trials in Circuit Court.
- Client first communication with clear next steps and timelines.
- Reviews that speak for themselves. Read our recent client reviews.
Where we appear
We regularly defend theft and shoplifting cases in Anne Arundel County, Prince George's County, Howard County, Montgomery County, and Baltimore area courts. If your case began with a same day bail decision, see our quick explainer on bail review and pretrial release.
Real Client Experiences
Read what our clients have to say about their experiences with FrizWoods LLC. Their stories highlight our dedication to achieving favorable outcomes in DUI cases:
Katherine Mason
★★★★★Great to work with Max very professional and knowledgeable. Made me aware of all the outcomes before retaining, very upfront which made me trust him no hidden agenda. I would retain him again. Excellent Attorney that you can trust.
David Smith
★★★★★Took care of all my needs always had an open line of communication strong presence in the courtroom I would most definitely use them again
Raequan Reaves
★★★★★These two guys were great! Never promised me anything but they will fight until the end. They were upfront and honest. I wouldn't hesitate using these guys again if needed. They made me feel comfortable so I knew I could trust them
William Lee
★★★★★Max and Luke are amazing lawyers. I had a lot of anxiety about my case. Both put me at ease, provided me a mitigation plan and went to work in the court room. My case was totally dismissed. If you need a defense attorney who really looks out for their clients you better call Max and Look. Outstanding criminal defense!!!!!!
Ready to protect your record?
A theft conviction can follow you for years. Get a plan before your first court date. Call or message us today for a free consultation: Contact FrizWoods Criminal Defense.
FAQs
Q: Will a first offense theft case ruin my record?
A: Not always. Outcomes range from dismissal to PBJ to conviction. Early mitigation and clean paperwork often create better options. Read our quick guide on resolving Maryland theft charges.
Q: Do I need a lawyer if the store is asking for civil recovery money?
A: Speak with counsel first. Civil demands are separate from the criminal case and paying them does not guarantee dismissal.
Q: What if the property was returned?
A: Return can help with intent, value, and mitigation, but it does not automatically end the case. We package proof of return and restitution for the prosecutor and the court.
Q: Can I expunge a theft charge?
A: Eligibility depends on the outcome and waiting periods. We will map out the steps after your case ends.