Ocean City, MD Theft Defense Attorneys

Knowledgeable Lawyers Defending Against Theft Charges in Ocean City, Maryland

While a theft charge may not seem like a major offense, the legal consequences can be severe. In some cases, theft may even be prosecuted as a felony. With the threat of prison time, high fines, and a criminal record hanging over your head, the best way to respond to a theft charge is to contact an Ocean City criminal defense attorney.

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our lawyers have more than 50 years of shared experience practicing criminal law. When you work with our firm, we will take a thorough look at your case and develop an effective strategy for your defense.

Misdemeanor Theft Charges

In Maryland, even small acts of theft are punishable by jail time. A theft of less than $100 is a misdemeanor offense punishable by up to three months in jail. If the value of the theft exceeds $100, you could face up to six months in jail, assuming you do not have a prior record already. Additionally, you may be ordered to pay restitution to the victim of the theft.

In cases involving misdemeanor theft charges, the court may be more open to an alternative sentence. Many acts of theft are motivated by a substance abuse issue or another crippling addiction. With the help of an attorney, you may be eligible for a sentence of treatment or rehabilitation instead of jail time. These types of treatment programs will hold you to certain requirements that, if violated, could result in you being sent back to jail.

Felony Theft and Burglary Charges

Theft is charged as a felony when the value of the stolen items amounts to $1,500 or more. Unlike misdemeanor theft, which only carries a jail sentence of a few months, you could be incarcerated for years for a conviction of felony theft.

Additionally, breaking and entering into somebody else's home to commit theft could result in first-degree burglary charges. Burglary is a felony offense. These charges can be serious, with a maximum prison sentence of 20 years on a conviction.

A felony on your record can be devastating to live with. You may face prejudice from employers or mortgage lenders who are unwilling to take a chance on someone with a serious criminal history. Moreover, if you have been convicted of a felony, you will lose the right to own a gun in Maryland. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our lawyers will fight to keep you out of prison and look for ways to have your charge reduced or even dismissed outright.

Defenses Against Theft Charges

At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, we will examine your case from all angles to find the best defense strategy. Depending on your case, we may be able to argue that:

• You did not intend to deprive the victim of their property.
• You were mistaken for another person.
• You were the rightful owner of the alleged stolen property.
• You had an alibi that proves you could not have committed the crime.

When defending against serious theft or burglary charges, our attorneys can contact accounting experts who can accurately gauge the value of the stolen items. We may also be able to work out a favorable sentence of probation or an alternative sentence through skilled negotiation.

Meet With an Ocean City, Maryland Theft Defense Lawyer Today

If you have been accused of theft in Maryland, you might be in grave legal trouble. At the Law Offices of Murphy & Price LLP, our Ocean City theft attorneys can provide you with representation and counsel to fight these charges.

If you need urgent legal representation, we are available 24/7 to help you. To schedule a free initial consultation today, call our offices at 410-280-2500 or reach out to us online.