Rockville, MD Theft and Robbery Defense Lawyers

Attorneys for Larceny, Shoplifting, Burglary, and Other Property Crimes in Rockville

Theft, robbery, and other property crimes are serious criminal offenses in Maryland. A conviction of a property crime can affect you in many ways. In addition to the possibility of a jail sentence and fines, you will have a criminal record that could limit your future opportunities. Your immigration status could also be affected, making it difficult to continue living in the U.S.

Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony, the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can provide you with a strong defense. We understand the difficulties you are facing, and we will work to ease your concerns as much as possible. We will guide you through the legal process, explaining the issues that will need to be addressed and making sure you will be ready to appear before a judge during hearings. We will advise you on what to wear so that you can present a professional image, and we will coach you on how to answer questions appropriately. With our attorneys by your side, you can rest assured that everything is being done to help you receive an acquittal.

Property Crime Charges in Maryland

Maryland law classifies theft and property crimes into different categories based on the nature of the offense, the value of the property involved, and whether force or weapons were used. The Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can help defend against charges of:

Theft/Larceny

Theft involves taking another person's property without permission. Maryland law has several categories of theft:

• Petty Theft: When stolen property is valued under $100, an offense will usually be charged as a misdemeanor. A conviction may result in a sentence of up to 90 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• Misdemeanor Theft: When stolen property is valued between $100 and $1,500, more serious misdemeanor charges will apply. Penalties may include up to six months in jail for a first offense and up to one year in jail for a second offense, as well as fines up to $500.
• Felony Theft: When stolen property is valued over $1,500, theft is charged as a felony. The maximum prison sentence may range from five to 20 years depending on the value of the property, and the maximum fines may range from $10,000 to $25,000.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is a form of theft that involves taking merchandise from a store without paying. In general, the same penalties will apply for shoplifting offenses as for other forms of theft. The penalties will depend on the value of the items that were allegedly stolen.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving, possessing, or concealing property that you know or should have known was stolen can also lead to theft charges. In these situations, the same penalties will apply for as if the person had committed theft of the property in question.

Robbery

Robbery is theft that involves the use of force, intimidation, or violence to take property from someone else. It is a felony offense, and a conviction can result in a sentence of up to 15 years in prison. If a weapon was allegedly used during the offense, a person may be charged with armed robbery, and the maximum sentence will increase to 20 years in prison.

Burglary

Burglary charges may apply if you are accused of entering a residence or another building while intending to commit theft or a violent crime. Maryland law classifies burglary into four degrees:

• First-Degree Burglary: This offense involves breaking into a dwelling with intent to commit theft or violence. First-degree burglary with the intent to commit theft carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years. A conviction for home invasion with the intent to commit a violent crime carries a maximum sentence of 25 years.
• Second-Degree Burglary: This offense may apply if a person is accused of breaking into a commercial building with intent to steal or commit a crime. A conviction carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, and if a person attempted to steal a firearm, the maximum sentence increases to 20 years.
• Third-Degree Burglary: Unlawful entry into a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime is a felony offense that carries a maximum sentence of 10 years.
• Fourth-Degree Burglary: General charges for breaking and entering a dwelling or commercial building are classified as misdemeanors. This offense may also apply if a person possesses burglary tools with the intent to commit burglary. A conviction may result in a sentence of up to three years in jail.

Carjacking

Carjacking involves the theft of a motor vehicle by force or intimidation. This is a felony offense in Maryland, and a conviction can result in severe penalties, including up to 30 years in prison.

Contact Our Rockville, Maryland Property Crimes Defense Attorneys

If you are facing charges of theft, robbery, burglary, carjacking, or other property crimes, the lawyers at the Law Offices of Mallon Snyder can provide the defense you need. We will fight to protect your rights and work to minimize the penalties you may face. Contact our office at 301-762-7500 to set up your free consultation and begin building your defense. We can assist with theft and other criminal charges in most county courts throughout Maryland, and we also provide representation in criminal cases in Washington, D.C.