Ellicott City Theft Attorney

A theft conviction can be devastating. A theft conviction, however, may do little to counter that perception among the public. Whether or not you believe you are guilty of the accusation against you, an Ellicott City theft lawyer can work to see that your reputation is not permanently damaged from such a charge. We also provide information on other criminal charges in Ellicott City.

Experienced Ellicott City Theft Attorneys Can Help

The penalties for theft largely depend upon the value of what was stolen. Naturally, stealing a pack of gum is considered less severe than stealing a flat screen television or even a car. Regardless, theft charges should always be taken seriously, as a conviction can very seriously and realistically become an obstacle for you at a later date.

If you have been charged with theft, a defense attorney has a myriad of tools he can use to help your case. If you have been charged with a felony, your attorney can work to try to negotiate a less damaging charge. Because many thefts are misdemeanors and many people charged are first-time offenders, your Ellicott City theft lawyer can also work to obtain a deferred sentence or to have your charges dropped entirely. We will also work to show the value of the property that was stolen is not as high as is being claimed.

It is important to remember that we cannot guarantee success, and the case that you have will be totally unique and different than any that has come before it. But there are a number of things that an Ellicott City theft lawyer can learn while trying similar cases, and they draw on that experience as they handle your defense.  When you have a theft attorney on your side, you have retained the services of an experienced litigator who will work tirelessly on your behalf to protect your rights and your best interests.

What is Misdemeanor Theft in Ellicott City?

Theft of objects or services with a value of less than $1,000 is a misdemeanor. Section 7-104(g)(2)-(3). If an individual is charged with theft of objects or services worth less than $100, then that person faces penalties of up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500. Section 7-104(g)(3). If a person is charged with theft of objects or services worth less than $1,000 but more than $100, then that person faces penalties of up to 18 months in jail and/or a fine of no more than $500. Section 7-104(g)(2). In both these cases, as in all case of theft, a person convicted of theft must also restore the stolen property to the owner or pay the owner the value of the object or services. Section 7-104(g).

What is Felony Theft in Ellicott City?

If the theft involves objects or services worth $1,000 or more— it becomes a felony offense. Apart from the harsher penalties of prison-time and fines accompanied by a felony offense, the felony conviction is a penalty in and of itself. A felony conviction has a powerful negative effect of different aspects of one’s life: voting rights, employability, gun rights, just to name a few.

If an individual is charged with theft of objects or services worth $1,000 or more, but less than $10,000, than that individual faces a felony conviction and penalties of up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine of $15,000 or less. Section 7-104(g)(1)(i).

If a person is charged with committing theft of objects or services with a value between $10,000 and $100,000— that person faces penalties of up to 15 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $15,000. Section 7-104(g)(1)(ii). If anyone is charged with theft for an amount more than $100,000, then the penalty is a felony conviction accompanied by up to 25 years in prison and/or a fine not to exceed $25,000. Section 7-104(g)(1)(iii). As with the misdemeanor cases above, anyone convicted of theft must also return the object to the owner or pay the value of the objects and/or services stolen.

We know that being charged or investigated for theft can become very complicated very quickly. A theft attorney in Ellicott City can represent you in court, advocate on your behalf, and make recommendations for a course of action.

Knowledgeable Ellicott City Theft Lawyers

The effects of these charges can be long-lasting and serious. From a legal perspective, they can include jail time, heavy fines, and mandatory community service hours. We understand the stress and concern you probably feel regarding your theft charge and how it can impact your life negatively. Our attorneys committed and dedicated to representing clients with diligence, aggressiveness, and clarity to do whatever it takes to prevent your charges from turning into convictions.

Finding a Theft Lawyer in Ellicott City

If you have been charged with theft in Ellicott City, call today at (410) 782-0742 for your free initial consultation.