Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer in Caroline County, Maryland
Petit larceny in Caroline County is a misdemeanor theft offense under Maryland law, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides focused defense for these charges at the District Court of MD for Caroline County. Our petit larceny defense lawyer Caroline County team has documented results in the county.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Caroline County | Maryland General Assembly
What Is Petit Larceny in Maryland?
In Maryland, petit larceny is the theft of property or services valued under $1,500. It is classified as a misdemeanor under Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104. The statute defines the elements the State must prove: that you knowingly obtained unauthorized control over property, with the intent to deprive the owner of that property, and that the value was less than $1,500. A conviction results in a permanent criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands how prosecutors in Caroline County build these cases.
Official Resources & Court Information
Understanding the specific statutes and the local court handling your case is critical. Use these official resources for reference.
- Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 7-104 (Official Maryland General Assembly)
- District Court of MD for Caroline County Website
Caroline County Petit Larceny Defense Strategy
The key local procedural fact in Caroline County is the availability of dispositions like Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) and the Stet docket to avoid a formal conviction. The State’s Attorney for Caroline County prosecutes these cases at the District Court in Denton. An experienced petty theft attorney Caroline County can challenge the State’s evidence on value or intent.
- Case Review & Investigation: We obtain all police reports, witness statements, and security footage to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Value Challenge: If the alleged value is close to the $1,500 felony threshold, we may hire an independent appraiser to contest the valuation.
- Negotiation for Alternative Disposition: We negotiate with the State’s Attorney for outcomes like PBJ (no conviction) or a Stet (inactive docket), which are common in this court.
- Motion to Suppress: If evidence was obtained improperly, we file motions to have it excluded from trial.
- Trial Preparation: If a favorable plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial before a District Court judge.
Potential Penalties for Petit Larceny in Caroline County
In Caroline County, petit larceny carries a penalty of up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $500, plus court costs and potential restitution.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (Under $100) | Misdemeanor | Up to 90 days | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, Criminal Record |
| Petit Larceny ($100 – $1,500) | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $500 | None | Restitution, Criminal Record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients across Maryland. Our petit larceny attorney Caroline County approach is informed by former prosecutor insight into how the State builds its cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, has a background that provides an advantage in cases involving financial details.
Case Results in Caroline County
Our firm has documented results in Caroline County. In criminal cases, we have achieved outcomes including dismissals and findings of not guilty. A strong defense from a skilled petit larceny defense lawyer Caroline County can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Near Caroline County, MD
Our Maryland office represents clients at Caroline County courts. We serve clients in Denton, Federalsburg, Greensboro, Preston, and Ridgely. Consultations are available by appointment.
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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) in Caroline County, Maryland?
Yes. PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. PBJ avoids a formal conviction on your record and is available for most misdemeanors and many felonies at District Court of MD for Caroline County. After probation, PBJ cases can be expunged after a 3-year waiting period.
Can I get my criminal record expunged in Caroline County, 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 Caroline County are expunged through the court where the case was heard.
What happens after a criminal arrest in Caroline County, Maryland?
After arrest in Caroline County: initial appearance before a District Court commissioner who sets bail, a bail review hearing within 24 hours if detained, followed by arraignment and trial. Misdemeanors like petit larceny are tried at the District Court in Denton.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in Caroline County, Maryland?
Yes. Maryland misdemeanors carry significant penalties—theft $100-$1,500 can bring up to 6 months in jail. An attorney at District Court of MD for Caroline County can negotiate PBJ (no conviction on record) or seek a dismissal of the charges.
What is the difference between petit larceny and felony theft in Maryland?
The primary difference is the value of the property involved. Theft of property valued under $1,500 is generally petit larceny, a misdemeanor. Theft of property valued at $1,500 or more is a felony, which carries the potential for a state prison sentence of up to 5 years or more.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.