Identity Theft Defense Lawyer in Baltimore City, Maryland
Identity theft in Baltimore City is a serious property crime prosecuted under Maryland law, carrying potential felony penalties. If you are charged, you need an experienced identity theft lawyer Baltimore City MD to protect your rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Maryland Identity Theft Law and Penalties
In Maryland, identity theft is formally known as “Identity Fraud” and is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law § 8-301. The law prohibits knowingly and willfully assuming the identity of another to obtain credit, money, goods, services, or other benefit. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the benefit obtained or intended to be obtained.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Baltimore City | Maryland General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in analyzing the financial records and digital evidence central to identity theft cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the identity fraud statute, visit the official Maryland General Assembly website. For information on court procedures and locations in Baltimore City, refer to the District Court of Maryland’s directory.
Baltimore City Court Process for Identity Theft Charges
Identity theft cases in Baltimore City typically begin in the District Court at 5800 Wabash Avenue. The State’s Attorney for Baltimore City prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that Maryland offers dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for certain first-time offenders, which can avoid a formal conviction on your record if successfully completed.
If you are charged, here is the general process:
- You will receive a summons or be arrested and have an initial appearance before a District Court commissioner for bail determination.
- A bail review hearing is held within 24 hours if you are detained.
- Your arraignment date is set, where you formally hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Your larceny defense lawyer will engage in discovery, reviewing all evidence the state has against you.
- Pre-trial motions may be filed to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- The case proceeds to a plea negotiation or a trial before a judge.
Potential Penalties for Identity Theft in Baltimore City
In Baltimore City, identity theft carries penalties based on the value involved, ranging from misdemeanors with up to 18 months in jail to felonies with up to 20 years in prison.
| Offense Value / Type | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than $100 | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, Criminal Record |
| $100 to $1,500 | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, Criminal Record |
| $1,500 to $25,000 | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, Felony Record |
| $25,000 to $100,000 | Felony | Up to 10 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, Felony Record |
| Over $100,000 | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $25,000 | None | Restitution, Felony Record |
| Identity Fraud to Avoid Prosecution | Felony | Up to 5 years | Up to $10,000 | None | Restitution, Felony Record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Identity Theft Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors like Mr. Sris and former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney Kristen Fisher, who understand how the other side builds a case. We have a documented track record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients. In Baltimore City, we focus on building a strong defense by scrutinizing the evidence of intent and knowledge, which are crucial elements the state must prove in any identity theft case.
Our firm founder, Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, provides strategic oversight on complex financial crime cases. His unique skill set is invaluable for dissecting the digital and paper trails in identity theft investigations.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our approach is consistently thorough. We have secured dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and favorable plea agreements for clients accused of various theft-related offenses. In Baltimore City, we use our knowledge of local court procedures and our relationships with prosecutors to seek the best possible resolution, whether that is a PBJ disposition, reduced charges, or an outright dismissal.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Service for Baltimore City Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E. Montgomery Ave, Suite 100, Room 211
Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747 | Local: (301) 363-4040
By appointment only.
Our Maryland office in Rockville represents clients at Baltimore City courts. We serve clients throughout Baltimore City, including Downtown, Inner Harbor, Fells Point, Canton, Federal Hill, Charles Village, Roland Park, Hampden, and Locust Point. As an identity theft lawyer Baltimore City MD residents trust, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Baltimore City, Maryland?
Yes, PBJ is a disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. It avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for many misdemeanors at the District Court of MD for Baltimore City. After successful probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Baltimore City, Maryland?
It depends. Maryland allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, Nolle Prosequi, Stet, PBJ (after 3 years), and many non-violent convictions under the Justice Reinvestment Act. Cases in Baltimore City are expunged through the court where the case was heard, typically the District Court.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Baltimore City, Maryland?
After arrest: (1) initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, (2) bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, (3) arraignment, (4) trial. Misdemeanor identity theft cases are tried at the District Court. Felony cases may go to Baltimore City Circuit Court.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Baltimore City, Maryland?
Yes. Even misdemeanor identity theft can carry up to 18 months in jail. A property crime lawyer at the District Court can negotiate for PBJ (no conviction) or dismissal, protecting your future. Contact SRIS at (888) 437-7747.
What should I look for in a shoplifting lawyer for an identity theft case?
While shoplifting and identity theft are both theft crimes, identity theft is more complex. You need an attorney with specific experience in fraud statutes, digital evidence, and financial records. Look for a theft attorney with a background in handling cases under Md. Code, Criminal Law § 8-301.
Internal Resources: For more information on criminal defense in Maryland, visit our Maryland Criminal Defense hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, consider our Montgomery County criminal defense lawyer or Prince George’s County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Baltimore City, see our pages for DUI defense and family law.
Page last verified: 2026-04. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.