Bethesda Theft Lawyer
The state of Maryland takes theft offenses very seriously. If you have been accused of theft, a Bethesda theft lawyer can help. We understand just how troubling these accusations can be, and we will work passionately to clear your name.
What are Common Theft Charges in Bethesda?
There are several different types of theft charges a person may face under Maryland Code § 7-104, including larceny, embezzlement, obtaining property through false pretenses, shoplifting and receiving stolen property.
All of these offenses include intentionally or knowingly controlling property without the consent of the owner, and can also involve concealing, using or abandoning property with the intent to deprive the owner.
Penalties for Theft Offenses in Bethesda
The penalties for theft offenses typically depend on the value of the goods or services involved, and whether the accused has any prior theft convictions, since subsequent charges may carry harsher penalties. Additionally, having an experienced Bethesda theft attorney by your side who is familiar with local prosecutors and judges may help mitigate some negative consequences to your record.
Felony Theft
Felony theft is considered the most serious crime, involving stolen property or services valuing at least $1000. Stolen property or services in Bethesda amounting to less than $10,000 is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000, in addition to required payments to reimburse the owner for the stolen property.
Felony theft involving between $10,000 and $100,000 carries a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000, while theft of more than $100,000 carries a penalty of up to 25 years in prison and up to $25,000 in fines, in addition to restitution payment. Common felony thefts include motor vehicle theft and passing bad checks.
Robbery
Robbery is the most serious type of theft in Bethesda, because it includes violence or threat of violence against a person. A person accused of robbery faces up to 15 years in prison, and armed robbery carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison. Carjacking is a specific type of robbery that carries an especially harsh penalty – up to 30 years in prison. To start building a defense against this serious charge, call and schedule a consultation with a Bethesda theft lawyer today.
Misdemeanor Theft
Misdemeanor theft is a less serious offense, but still can carry harsh penalties, including up to 18 months in prison and a fine of up to $500 for stolen property or services valued at less than $1000. Even theft of as little as $100 or less carries a penalty of up to 90 days in jail and up to $500 in fines, in addition to restitution payments.
Subsequent conviction can carry enhanced penalties, with a person facing up to five years in prison and fines up to $5000, if he or she has two prior theft convictions involving goods or services valued at less than $1000. Should you be facing a subsequent charge for misdemeanor theft, hiring a theft lawyer in Bethesda is one of your best options in minimizing further penalization.
How Can a Bethesda Theft Lawyer Help?
Our Bethesda theft lawyers understand that many times people are wrongly accused of theft, since they never intended to deprive anyone of their property.
If you have been charged with theft but believe you were acting in good faith in obtaining the property involved, or believed that you had the lawful right to obtain the property, your Bethesda theft attorney can request reduced or dismissed charges. It may also be a valid defense if you are the spouse of the person who has accused you of theft, and you were accessing your shared property.
