IF YOU HAVE BEEN ACCUSED OF:

THEFT CRIMES

Theft is generally defined as taking and subtracting from another person’s property with the intention of permanently depriving them of that object. As modern society advances, non-traditional forms of theft, such as identity theft and card cloning are popping up everywhere.

Many computer-theft crimes are prosecuted at the federal level, resulting in more severe penalties. In addition, many states have “repeat offender” laws that subject individuals with a history of theft, or convictions related to theft, to new charges in the sentence.

Common Types of Theft

Theft charges vary from minor incidents like shoplifting to million-dollar cases of embezzlement. Of course, their legal repercussions vary correspondingly as well. 

Familiarizing yourself with common theft crimes will help you determine the most effective legal steps to take after getting charged with theft:

Petty Theft

Petty theft, otherwise known as larceny or misdemeanor theft, involves stealing low-value property or assets. Different states have varying limits defining petty theft. However, the maximum amount typically falls under $500 to $1,000, and the court only classifies petty theft as a misdemeanor.

The consequences depend on the gravity of the situation, but most convicted individuals face six to 12 months of jail time. Some states also require community service.

While petty theft might not seem like much, don’t ignore it. Whether you’re trying to get into college or applying for a new job, a misdemeanor will not look good on your record.

Grand Theft

Grand theft involves the theft of high-value items — usually amounting to at least $500 to $1,000, depending on your state’s guidelines. If convicted, your fines could spike up to $10,000, and you could also face up to three years of imprisonment.

However, note that the penalties could still increase depending on your case. If the plaintiff also filed graver charges like manslaughter, racketeering, or financial fraud, the court might sentence you to several decades of imprisonment.

Merchandise Theft 

Merchandise theft or shoplifting is a common type of larceny, which involves the unlawful possession and acquisition of any retail shop’s property. Most cases will fall under a misdemeanor unless you stole thousands of goods. As such, the penalties include a maximum of one year of jail time and around $1,000 in fines.

While the legal repercussions might not seem intimidating, note that society sees thieves in a negative light. You might even get banned from shopping at various stores and shops.

Theft Involving Lost Property 

If you come across lost valuables, take them, then neglect to report them to the authorities, you might face charges of theft involving lost properties. The law classifies failing to return lost items as a crime. 

Of course, accused individuals still have a chance to defend themselves. For instance, keeping a wallet that you saw someone drop would classify as theft. However, if you found the wallet by itself and have no clue who owns it, you can’t automatically be convicted of theft.

Theft Involving Stolen Property

It’s a crime to purchase and keep stolen goods. The law requires consumers to report merchants selling stolen properties — or avoid them altogether. Getting convicted of theft involving stolen property could lead to anywhere from spending a few days or months in jail.

However, the government can only convict you if you are aware that the goods are stolen. If you prove your innocence, you’ll walk away free of charges.

THE BEST CRIMINAL ATTORNEYS FOR YOUR DEFENSE

One of the keys to a successful defense in burglary charges is pre-trial investigation. Often, computer or writing experts can tilt the balance in your favor. Our criminal lawyers and experts have the resources to thoroughly prepare your case and fight it before the prosecution.

Robbery cases can be won or lost depending on how the pre-trial preparation was prepared. Your defense team must have the time and experience to conduct their own investigation of your case.

Robbery crimes tend to be easier to negotiate in terms of conviction penalties than violent crimes or sex offenses. Although criminal lawyers are always prepared to go to trial, our experienced lawyers are especially skilled at bargaining techniques. We will always strive to present you with the best negotiated solution possible, knowing that it is your decision whether to take the deal or go to trial.

Robbery crimes tend to have financial ramifications in the event you are convicted. Fines and restitution of damages are often mandatory, and an experienced criminal lawyer can guide and advise you from a financial perspective on how to lessen the impact of these collateral consequences.

The repercussions after getting convicted of theft go beyond imprisonment or fines. Once these charges appear on your record, you’ll have a much harder time finding a job, registering a business, opening credit card accounts, or even securing a place to rent. 

Whether you choose to settle your case, or to go to trial, the most important factors in a theft case are, that your case is fully prepared and you are empowered to make a fully informed decision. It is your case and your future, so developing a defense requires a team of criminal lawyers, not a single lawyer.

WHY HIRE THE BEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS?

LibertyBell Law Group was founded by a group of the best criminal lawyers who have a track record of generating satisfactory results for their clients. Our criminal lawyers were frustrated by the fact that thousands of people still suffer life-altering consequences because they do not have the means to create an adequate defense.

Don’t underestimate the mental stress of wrongful theft charges. Studies show that wrongfully convicted individuals typically develop several mental health complications over time, such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and relationship impairment. Some never even become functioning members of society again.

Our criminal defense lawyers created this legal firm to level the playing field. We have carefully selected only the best criminal defense lawyers for theft crimes. Our attorneys have extensive experience and an impressive track record in winning delicate and very difficult cases.

We provide our veteran criminal lawyers with all the resources they need to get the best outcome for your case. We have created a powerful team of criminal attorneys available and accessible to you. Check more about los angeles federal criminal defense lawyer.

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CALL OUR DEFENSE ATTORNEYS NOW

As a client, you can turn to the talents and resources of a large law firm who have a goal to get the best result for your case. We are ready to defend you both inside and outside the courtroom.

Call us today at (855) 529-7761 for a free consultation with one of our criminal attorneys. Early intervention is the key to our mutual success.

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