Salisbury Theft Lawyer

Defending Yourself Against Charges of Theft, Burglary & Similar Property Crimes

If convicted on theft charges, the penalties you face will depend on the value of the stolen property. The higher in value the item or items that were taken, the more severe the penalty. At the MacDonald Law Office, LLC, we encourage people who have been arrested on suspicion of theft or who have been charged with theft to speak with a skilled theft lawyer as soon as possible. We can quickly determine the most advisable path for fighting the charges you face.

Our Salisbury and Ocean City theft defense attorneys can begin building a strong defense on your behalf immediately. We are former local prosecutors, and we understand the system. We not only emphasize prompt action but also prioritize comprehensive case evaluations. We strive to uncover all facets of your situation, examining the evidence, seeking mitigating factors, and exploring all potential defenses to maximize favorable outcomes.

Skilled Defense for Theft & Destruction of Property Charges in Salisbury and the Ocean City Area

As experienced defense attorneys, our number-one priority is defending you against theft and property crimes charges. We focus our efforts on securing the best possible outcome, given the charges you face.

We handle the defense of misdemeanor and felony theft crimes, such as:

We also defend against destruction of property charges. These cases can involve the malicious destruction of property, vandalism, and trespassing. The penalties for these crimes are severe, so consulting with a well-respected and experienced Salisbury criminal defense lawyer is critical to building a solid defense in your case.

What Constitutes Theft in Salisbury?

In Salisbury, theft crimes are categorized based on the value of the property involved, with specific thresholds distinguishing between misdemeanors and felonies. Maryland law delineates these categories clearly, with penalties scaling up as the severity of the theft increases. These laws also account for factors such as prior convictions, which can compound penalties significantly. 

What is the Difference Between Theft and Burglary in Maryland?

Theft and burglary are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, but under Maryland law, they are distinct offenses with different legal elements and penalties.

• Theft (Maryland Criminal Code § 7-104) - Theft is the unauthorized taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner. It includes several forms such as shoplifting, embezzlement, theft by deception or fraud, unauthorized use of property, and possession of stolen goods. The severity of a theft charge depends largely on the value of the property taken.
• Burglary (Maryland Criminal Code § 6-202 – § 6-205) - Burglary refers to unlawfully entering a structure (typically a home, business, or other building) with the intent to commit a crime inside—usually theft, but not always.

What are the Potential Penalties and Consequences for a Theft Conviction in Maryland?

Even first-time offenders face serious penalties under Maryland law. But the consequences go beyond time behind bars:

• Criminal record that cannot be expunged easily
• Difficulty securing employment, especially in positions of trust
• Loss of security clearance or professional licenses
• Driver’s license consequences in some theft-related convictions
• Restitution orders that can lead to garnished wages
• Loss of immigration status for non-citizens

A Salisbury theft lawyer works not only to avoid a conviction but also to reduce the long-term fallout. If appropriate, diversion programs or negotiated pleas may be used to protect your record and prevent harsh consequences.

What to Do If You’re Accused of Theft or Burglary?

If you’re under investigation or have been arrested, your next steps are critical:

1. Do not speak with police without an attorney.
2. Avoid contacting the alleged victim to “explain”—this can backfire.
3. Preserve any potential evidence, including receipts, texts, or security footage.
4. Hire a Salisbury theft defense attorney as early as possible in the process.

Quick legal intervention can mean the difference between facing felony charges and avoiding prosecution altogether.

Were You Arrested While Vacationing?

Our law firm frequently defends people who were vacationing in Ocean City or the surrounding areas and were arrested for various crimes. It is common for people who are on vacation to enjoy a few alcoholic beverages, which has the potential to lead to honest mistakes, such as entering the wrong hotel room. If you are a vacationer charged with breaking and entering, please talk to our law firm.

Vacation-related arrests can bring unexpected legal challenges, often compounded by unfamiliarity with local laws and procedures. At the MacDonald Law Office, LLC, we are adept at handling cases involving non-residents and work swiftly to address the unique challenges these cases present. We aim to minimize the impact on your vacation and personal life, striving for resolutions that allow you to move forward without lasting legal repercussions.

Contact Our Theft & Burglary Defense Attorneys in Salisbury

The MacDonald Law Office, LLC is dedicated to securing the best possible outcome given the charges you face. We strive to help you avoid jail time and other penalties.

Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and we believe in maintaining open and honest communication throughout the legal process. We understand the anxiety and uncertainty that accompany criminal charges, and our goal is to provide support and guidance every step of the way. Whether through personalized consultation or aggressive court representation, our focus remains on delivering solutions that serve your best interests.