Felony Theft Lawyer Chevy Chase — What Are Your Defense Options?
Felony theft in Maryland is a serious crime prosecuted in Montgomery County Circuit Court, carrying severe penalties. If you are charged with grand larceny or felony stealing in Chevy Chase, securing a felony theft lawyer Chevy Chase from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is critical.
Understanding Felony Theft Charges in Maryland
In Maryland, theft becomes a felony based on the value of the property or the specific circumstances of the alleged crime. The primary statute governing theft is Md. Code, Crim. Law § 7-104. Generally, theft of property valued at $1,500 or more is classified as a felony, specifically as grand theft. However, theft of certain items, like firearms or controlled substances, can be a felony regardless of value. A felony theft lawyer Chevy Chase must handle these statutes to build an effective defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Montgomery County Circuit Court | Maryland General Assembly
Legal Resources and Court Information
For the official Maryland theft statute, refer to the Md. Code, Crim. Law § 7-104 on the Maryland General Assembly website. Court procedures for felony cases in Chevy Chase are handled by the Montgomery County Circuit Court. Understanding the local rules and procedures of this court is essential for any grand larceny defense lawyer Chevy Chase.
Local Defense Strategy for Chevy Chase Felony Theft Cases
Felony theft cases in Montgomery County Circuit Court move through a formal process. Prosecutors often rely on surveillance footage, witness statements, and financial records. An experienced felony stealing charge lawyer Chevy Chase will immediately scrutinize the evidence for chain-of-custody issues, valuation disputes, and intent. For instance, proving you had a claim of right to the property or that you lacked the intent to permanently deprive the owner can be a complete defense.
- Initial Appearance & Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the felony theft charges and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or dismiss charges based on legal insufficiency.
- Discovery & Investigation: The prosecution shares its evidence. Your defense team conducts its own investigation, interviews witnesses, and may hire experts.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduction to a misdemeanor or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial Preparation: If no agreement is reached, your attorney prepares a vigorous trial defense, focusing on witness credibility and evidence flaws.
- Trial: The case is presented before a judge or jury in Montgomery County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Felony Theft in Maryland
In Chevy Chase, felony theft can result in a prison sentence of up to 10 years and fines up to $10,000, with enhanced penalties for higher values or prior convictions.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theft $1,500 to under $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses. |
| Theft $25,000 to under $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | All of the above, plus potential loss of voting rights and ineligibility for certain government benefits. |
| Theft of a Firearm | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | Severe restrictions on future firearm ownership, mandatory minimum sentences may apply. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Felony Theft Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we commit fully to your defense. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in complex theft cases by challenging evidence, negotiating effectively, and providing assertive courtroom representation when necessary.
Documented Case Results in Theft and Larceny Defense
Our approach yields results. For example, our team has successfully argued for the suppression of key identification evidence in a retail theft case, skilled to a dismissal. In another matter, we negotiated a felony grand larceny charge down to a misdemeanor with no jail time for a client with no prior record. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on many criminal cases, Matthew Greene, brings over 30 years of experience, including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, providing deep insight into case preparation and courtroom dynamics.
Contact Our Chevy Chase Felony Theft Defense Lawyers
Our defense team is accessible to clients in Chevy Chase and surrounding communities like Bethesda, Potomac, and Silver Spring. We are positioned to respond promptly to cases in Montgomery County Circuit Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (301) 637-5392
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Felony Theft Charges
What makes theft a felony in Maryland?
Theft is a felony in Maryland if the value of the property is $1,500 or more, or if the item stolen is a firearm, motor vehicle, or controlled substance, regardless of value. The specific charge is grand theft under Md. Code, Crim. Law § 7-104.
Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes. An experienced felony theft lawyer Chevy Chase can often negotiate a reduction to misdemeanor theft, especially for first-time offenders, when the value is near the $1,500 threshold, or if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence regarding intent or value.
What are the best defenses against a felony theft charge?
It depends on the facts. Common defenses include lack of intent to steal (claim of right, mistake), mistaken identity, insufficient evidence of value, unlawful search and seizure, or problems with the chain of custody of the alleged stolen property. A grand larceny defense lawyer Chevy Chase will identify the strongest angle for your case.
Do I need a lawyer for a felony theft charge?
Absolutely. The consequences of a felony conviction are severe and long-lasting. A felony stealing charge lawyer Chevy Chase protects your rights, challenges the evidence, and works toward the best possible outcome, which could mean dismissal, reduction, or acquittal.
How long does a felony theft case take?
Typically, 6 to 18 months from arrest to resolution in Montgomery County Circuit Court. The timeline depends on case complexity, evidence volume, court scheduling, and whether the case is resolved by plea or goes to trial. Your attorney can provide a more specific estimate after reviewing your case.