Property Crimes Attorneys in Waldorf, MD
Building a Strong Property Crimes Defense for Maryland Residents
Whether you're facing property crime charges or have been the victim of a property crime, understanding these cases' complexities is vital. Property crimes can have significant legal, financial, and personal consequences, impacting victims and defendants alike. At Farmer & Klopfer, we’re dedicated to guiding Waldorf residents through the complicated legal landscape of property crimes with experience and compassion.
Contact us today to schedule a no-cost consultation and learn how Farmer & Klopfer can provide the legal support you need.
Types of Property Crimes Our Team Can Handle
Property crimes include theft, burglary, vandalism, and arson. Each type of crime has its own rules and consequences, which can change depending on the severity of the act and the property's worth.
Some of the common types of property crimes we handle in Waldorf include:
- Burglary – Breaking into a building with the intent to commit a crime, such as theft, is considered burglary. Under Maryland law, burglary is classified into degrees, with first-degree being the most severe.
- Theft – Theft involves taking someone else’s property without permission or intent to return it. This includes shoplifting, embezzlement, and identity theft.
- Vandalism – Vandalism, or malicious destruction of property, includes acts like spray painting graffiti, smashing windows, or damaging vehicles. Even minor vandalism can lead to criminal charges.
- Arson – Arson is the intentional setting of fires to property and is among the most serious property crimes. Depending on the case, arson charges can carry severe penalties, including extended prison time.
By understanding the nature of these crimes, defendants can better prepare for what lies ahead, while victims can seek justice confidently.
Penalties for Maryland Property Crimes
Maryland state laws outline that the penalties for property crimes vary based on the offense and severity of the damage caused.
Penalties for property crimes can include the following:
- First-degree burglary carries penalties of up to 20 years in prison, while lesser degrees have reduced penalties.
- The punishment for theft depends on the value of the stolen property. For example, stealing less than $100 can result in up to 90 days in jail. Additionally, stealing between $1,500 and $25,000 can result in up to 5 years in prison, and stealing over $100,000 is punishable by up to 25 years in prison.
- Vandalism damage exceeding $1,000 is classified as a felony, punishable by up to 3 years in prison and fines.
- First-degree arson can result in up to 30 years of imprisonment, reflecting the severity of the crime.
Understanding these potential consequences is essential for anyone involved in a property crime case. The stakes are high, and the right legal guidance can make all the difference.
Defenses Against Property Crime Charges
Several legal defenses may apply to your case if you face charges for a property crime in and around Waldorf.
At Farmer & Klopfer, we assess all factors to build a robust defense, which may include:
- Mistaken Identity – You may have been wrongly accused due to circumstantial evidence or misidentification.
- Lack of Intent – Certain property crimes require proving intent. If intent cannot be demonstrated, charges might be reduced or dismissed.
- Permission – This could be a viable defense if you had permission to use or take the property.
- Alibi – Providing proof that you were elsewhere during the alleged crime can dismantle the prosecution's case.
Navigating these defenses requires a strong legal strategy. Our experienced attorneys are skilled at identifying the most effective pathways to achieve favorable outcomes.
Speak to a Property Crimes Attorney in Waldorf Today
Don't face it alone if you or a loved one is involved in a property crime case. Farmer & Klopfer offers strategic legal advice tailored to your case, ensuring you can handle the challenges ahead. As seasoned property crimes attorneys serving Waldorf, MD, we are dedicated to helping you regain peace of mind and take the next steps confidently.
The opinions that matter Most
READ OUR 5-STAR REVIEWS
-
“Thank you, Mr. Farmer, and may God bless you in your future endeavors.”
“You and your team have given my family our son back. No amount can adequately compensate for that gift! I can only hope our heart-felt thank-you and 'God bless you' will somehow offset the imbalance.”- Father of Defendant in Murder Trial -
“A family member was in a bad situation and they resolved it with ZERO drama.”
“Don’t mess around when it’s your money on the line. Go with these guys if you want excellent, competent attorneys.”- Miguel P. -
“Truly cared about my case and how the accident affected me.”
“I have used James Farmer office for two accidents I have been in; both times they were exceptional.”- Ashley B. -
“He got me the best possible sentencing I've could have asked for.”
“I've had several lawyers over the last decade and James Farmer has been the absolute best.”- Karl S. -
“The staff at the office was very friendly and professional.”
“I would highly recommend this attorney to anyone who is in need of an attorney.”- Tanya M. -
“Showed me true dedication that goes far beyond a paycheck”
James Farmer and his team exceeded all expectations! I had a very serious criminal case and his firm was recommended to me by a family member. I was incarcerated during this time and he and his associate Stephanie came to update me on multiple occasions on the progress of my case. They were not only professional but the amount of time and energy they put into my case showed me true dedication that goes far beyond a paycheck! They prepared for trial, but in the end was able to work out a plea deal that did not include any jail time. I couldn’t have asked for a better attorney. I highly recommend Mr. Farmer and his team for any criminal case!- Previous Client -
“Kind, sympathetic, reassuring and more importantly, very knowledgeable”
I couldn’t be happier with the service I received from this law firm. I felt comfortable from the minute I first walked through the door. I had less than two weeks before the expiration of my personal injury filing date and was overwhelmed. My first appointment was with Elizabeth who took my huge stack of papers with a smile and said, “Let me take care of this for you.” Although all of the staff that I encountered were wonderful, my main experience was with Mr. Farmer and Elizabeth who were both kind, sympathetic, reassuring and more importantly, very knowledgeable. My case was handled professionally and in a timely fashion. My case was recently concluded and I am very happy with the outcome and would not hesitate to use them again or recommend them to my friends and family in the future. Need a good law firm, no need to look further.- Donna -
“A wise choice for anyone pursuing legal justice and/or a defense”
- Previous ClientMr. Farmer and his team were impressive through their work effort and detailed approach in every phase the Civil Court Personal Injury case. They also were responsive to any questions/concerns, supportive and communicated well through out the process. In the end, a satisfactory settlement was achieved. Mr. Farmer would be a wise choice for anyone pursuing legal justice and/or a defense.
-
$1,800,000 $1,800,000 | Car Accident - 2022 -
$1,300,000 Confidential
-
$1,250,000 $1,250,000 | Car Accident, Confidential - 2022
HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS RECOVERED FOR OUR CLIENTS
LET US GO FOR THE KNOCK-OUT
- $1,800,000 | Car Accident - 2022
- Confidential
- $1,250,000 | Car Accident, Confidential - 2022