Credit Card Theft Lawyer in Baltimore County, Maryland
Experienced Defense Against Credit Card Theft Charges in Towson and Baltimore County
If you or a loved one has been charged with credit card theft in Baltimore County, Maryland, you face a serious misdemeanor offense under Maryland Criminal Law § 8-204. This statute prohibits taking a credit card without the cardholder’s consent, receiving a stolen or lost credit card with intent to use, sell, or transfer it, improperly buying or selling credit cards, and related conduct. Prosecutors in Baltimore County treat these charges aggressively, and a conviction can result in up to 18 months of imprisonment, a fine of up to $500, a permanent criminal record, and collateral consequences that affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
At Shepard Law in Towson, principal attorney Stephen P. Shepard provides client-centered and compassionate criminal defense representation to individuals facing credit card theft 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 credit card theft 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 § 8-204.
What Is Credit Card Theft Under Maryland Law?
Under Maryland Criminal Law § 8-204, a person may not:
- Take a credit card from another, or from the possession, custody, or control of another without the consent of the cardholder; or
- With knowledge that a credit card has been taken under the circumstances described above, receive the credit card with the intent to use it or sell or transfer it to another who is not the issuer or the cardholder;
- Receive a credit card that the person knows was lost, mislaid, or delivered under a mistake as to the identity or address of the cardholder and retain possession with the intent to use, sell, or transfer it;
- Sell a credit card unless the person is the issuer, or buy a credit card from a person other than the issuer;
- Receive a credit card that the person knows was taken or retained under circumstances that constitute credit card theft or related violations.
A person who violates this section is guilty of credit card theft.
Penalties for Credit Card Theft in Baltimore County
A violation of § 8-204 is a misdemeanor. Upon conviction, you are subject to:
- Imprisonment not exceeding 18 months; or
- A fine not exceeding $500; or
- Both.
Convictions also carry lasting collateral consequences, including difficulty obtaining employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Strong Defenses to Credit Card Theft Charges
t Shepard Law, we meticulously review every aspect of the State’s evidence to build a thoughtful defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common and effective defenses include:
- Lack of knowledge that the card was stolen, lost, or taken without consent
- Absence of criminal intent to use, sell, or transfer the card
- Consent or authorization by the cardholder
- Unlawful search and seizure of evidence
- Mistaken identity or false accusations
- Insufficient evidence to prove the elements of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt
Stephen P. Shepard approaches each case with care and attention, working closely with clients to pursue dismissal, reduction of charges, or another favorable outcome.
Why Choose Shepard Law for Credit Card Theft 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.