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Silver Spring Theft Lawyer

Crimes such as theft, robbery, and shoplifting are prosecuted harshly in the state of Maryland, and those convicted of such crimes can face a variety of legal penalties. Penalties such as incarceration and fines are common, especially for those with previous criminal records. If you were charged with any of the previously mentioned crimes, you may need the help of a Silver Spring theft lawyer with a history of success.

A skilled defense attorney can examine every aspect of your case, and they may be able to get your charges dropped or reduced. Theft is a serious crime with far-reaching consequences that can change your life for the worse.

Types of Theft

As a Silver Spring attorney can attest, theft is a single crime that includes a plethora of separate crimes. Theft involves taking a product or service without the permission of its rightful owner. Unlike robbery, theft occurs when a product or service is taken while the owner is not present. Certain crimes, such as embezzlement, larceny, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, are common forms of theft, each with its own set of criminal penalties.

Petty theft, also known as petty larceny in some jurisdictions, involves the stealing of an item or service usually valued at less than $1,000 ($500 in some areas). Petty theft is usually considered a misdemeanor charge, which is punishable by jail time, community service, fines, and possible restitution.

Grand theft, or larceny, involves the stealing of an item or service valued at more than $1,000 or $500. Grand theft is usually considered a felony charge, and individuals can face long jail sentences (up to 30 years in Maryland), as well as other forms of restitution. As always, those with previous theft charges will face more serious punishments.

Robbery

Robbery, unlike other types of theft, involves the use of or threat of force. The Maryland Criminal Law Code defines property as anything of value, including services as well as goods. Since robbery involves the use of or threat of violence, the penalties for theft are far stricter than penalties for shoplifting or basic theft. A person can be charged with robbery for taking any of the following types of properties:

  • Money
  • Real estate
  • Tickets
  • Agricultural products
  • Utilities

Individuals can also be charged with robbery for taking pets, food and beverages, and data. As usual, the penalties for robbery will be heavily influenced by the value of what was taken, as well as the degree of violence used to obtain the property. Armed robbery, or the act of using a weapon to obtain property, is the most serious type of robbery charge.

Receiving Stolen Property

Many people do not know it is illegal to receive a stolen item. Anyone who knowingly purchases or accepts a stolen item as a gift can be charged with theft, and possibly face jail time and other punishments. Unfortunately, individuals who unknowingly purchase or accept stolen items are often taken into custody and charged with theft. Such individuals will certainly need the help of a Silver Spring theft attorney.

Call a Silver Spring Theft Attorney Today

If you are facing theft charges, you may be angry, confused, and frightened. Such feelings are common, especially if you have never faced such charges before, and more than likely, you are worried about your future. An experienced attorney may be able to provide you with the guidance and advice you need to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Call a Silver Spring theft lawyer today to discuss the charges you face.

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