Theft Charges Require a Tough Response by a Tough Attorney

People get accused of theft every day and many of them are innocent. How can that be? Charges have actually been brought against people who picked something up that belonged to someone while saying, "I should take this from you!" The property owner decides the person was trying to steal the item and files a police report even after getting the property back at the time. Any attorney in Frederick, MD can tell you that the charge of theft is bandied about in all types of situations including when circumstances in hindsight clearly indicate there was no sincere intention of taking someone’s property.



In Maryland, theft is actually an umbrella term that is applied to a number of illegal actions.



* Larceny

* False pretenses

* Shoplifting

* Receiving stolen property



To be considered theft, there are two elements that must be present. First, there must have been the taking of property. Secondly, the intent must be to permanently deprive the property owner of that property. There have been cases like the one described earlier in which theft charges were brought against a person for picking up another person’s property. But the person was found not guilty because it could not be proved that the intent was to permanently deprive the owner of the property.



Escalating Penalties



In any theft case, the defense attorney Frederick, MD defendants need is one who is experienced and knowledgeable. There are always going to be cases in which actions may seem to be illegal but are not, but without experienced legal representation it is entirely possible an innocent person will be subjected to the penalties for crimes involving theft.



There are also cases where theft charges have been levied against someone after the person found something and didn’t try to find the owner. You can’t keep something just because you found it.



Maryland laws allow for penalties for theft that are based on the value of the property stolen. A theft of items under $100 currently can result in up to 90 days in jail. A theft less than $500 can lead to 18 months in jail and a $500 fine. Both of these theft charges are misdemeanors and a defense attorney in Frederick, MD can often negotiate probation instead of jail for a convicted person.



Any theft of property worth more than $500 is a felony, and the penalties get more severe. A judge can impose a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison and a $25,000 fine. Theft of a car can net a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine, unless you are charged with theft of property over $500 with a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. There is a separate charge if a computer service is used for theft.



You should consult with a defense attorney in Frederick, MD as soon as possible if you are charged with theft. The sooner the better so the attorney can gather fresh evidence concerning the circumstances that led to the charge.



The Law Office of Marc S. Ward provides Legal Services to Frederick, MD. Call 301-662-2911 for Free Consultations Available. for more details on Attorney Frederick, MD and Defense Attorney Fredrick, MD please visit our website www.wardlawoffices.com