Shoplifting Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Shoplifting Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with shoplifting in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious theft offense under Maryland Criminal Law § 7-104. Shoplifting charges typically involve allegations of willfully or knowingly taking merchandise from a store without paying, with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. Prosecutors in Baltimore County District and Circuit Courts handle these cases aggressively, and a conviction can result in jail time, substantial fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, professional licensing, and more.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing shoplifting charges throughout Baltimore County. With more than a decade of dedicated service defending clients in Towson, Essex, Catonsville, and surrounding communities, our firm focuses on understanding your unique circumstances and protecting your future with thoughtful, personalized advocacy.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
A shoplifting charge in Baltimore County requires prompt, compassionate legal guidance. The earlier you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and explore all available options.
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve under Maryland Criminal Law § 7-104.
What Is Shoplifting Under Maryland Law?
Shoplifting falls under the general theft provisions of Maryland Criminal Law § 7-104. A person may not willfully or knowingly obtain or exert unauthorized control over property (such as store merchandise) if the person:
- Intends to deprive the owner of the property;
- Willfully or knowingly uses, conceals, or abandons the property in a manner that deprives the owner; or
- Uses, conceals, or abandons the property knowing that doing so will probably deprive the owner.
The statute also covers theft by deception and possession of stolen property. The value of the stolen items determines the severity of the charge and the applicable penalties.
Penalties for Shoplifting in Baltimore County
Penalties under § 7-104 are value-based and increase with prior convictions:
- Less than $100: Misdemeanor – up to 90 days in jail and/or a $500 fine (first offense); up to 1 year and/or $500 for subsequent offenses.
- $100 to less than $1,500: Misdemeanor – up to 6 months/$500 (first) or 1 year/$500 (subsequent), plus restitution.
- $1,500 to less than $25,000: Felony – up to 5 years and/or $10,000 fine, plus restitution.
- Higher values: Felonies carrying up to 10 or 20 years imprisonment and higher fines.
Convictions require full restitution to the victim and can trigger collateral consequences such as loss of employment opportunities, housing restrictions, and impacts on professional licenses.
Strong Defenses to Shoplifting Charges
At Shepard Law, we thoroughly investigate every shoplifting case to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
- Mistaken belief that the item was paid for or authorized
- Insufficient evidence or credibility issues with store security or witnesses
- Constitutional violations involving the stop, search, or arrest
- Challenges to the value of the alleged stolen property
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue the most appropriate resolution—whether through negotiation for dismissal, reduction of charges, diversion programs, or trial.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Shoplifting Defense in Baltimore County
Stephen P. Shepard is a respected Baltimore County criminal defense attorney recognized by Super Lawyers as a “Rising Star,” Avvo with a 10.0 “Superb” rating, Martindale-Hubbell as a “Client Champion Platinum,” and The National Trial Lawyers as a “Top 40 Under 40.” He is an active member of the Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys Association and regularly appears in Baltimore County courts.
Our Towson office, located at 303 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Towson, MD 21204, serves clients across Baltimore County. At Shepard Law, you receive client-centered and compassionate representation focused on your individual needs and long-term well-being.
Take the Next Step – Contact Shepard Law Today
Call Shepard Law at (410) 648-4008 or complete our secure online contact form for a free, confidential consultation. We also offer jail visits for a fee when needed. Attorney Stephen P. Shepard is prepared to listen carefully to your story, explain your rights, and provide the client-centered and compassionate representation you deserve.
