Results Driven Theft Defense

Why You Need to Hire An Attorney For Theft Criminal Defense?

Theft is generally defined as the taking of another person’s property without his or her consent. The term theft is a general term, which while the terms such as burglary and robbery are more specific. Burglary is defined as taking someone’s property through entering their home or business without consent. The term, robbery, is taking of a person’s property from them by force.

Theft crimes include the following:

• Theft of property or services
• Possession of stolen property
• Trafficking in stolen property
• Identity theft
• Shoplifting
• Organized retail theft
• Burglary
• Robbery
• Forgery
• Embezzlement
• Fraud
• Fraudulent business schemes

The penalties for a theft crime can be very serious, depending on the value of the items stolen. Theft crimes can affect one's employment opportunities. Apartments may reject the applications of people with criminal histories. Credit companies often reject loan requests.

The crime of theft can result in a misdemeanor or felony conviction. The seriousness of the crime depends upon the value of the goods obtained, what was taken, if a weapon was used, and if someone was injured or killed during the theft. The defendant's prior criminal history can also have an impact on the outcome of the case. A conviction could result in jail or prison, lengthy probation, community restitution, and hefty criminal fines.

• Class 1 Misdemeanor: The value of the property or services was less than $1,000. A conviction carries a maximum possible sentence of up to six months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and up to three years probation.
• Class 6 Felony: The property or services were valued at $1,000 or more, but less than $2,000.  This conviction carries a possible prison term from 4 months to 2 years. The maximum allowable fine is $150,000. Probation may be ordered for up to three years.
• Class 5 Felony: The property or services were valued at $2,000 or more, but less than $3,000. This conviction carries a possible prison sentence of between six months to 2.5 years. The maximum allowable fine is $150,000. Probation may be ordered for up to three years.
• Class 4 Felony:. The property or services were valued at $3,000 or more, but less than $4,000. A conviction carries a possible prison sentence of between 1 year and 3.75 years. The maximum allowable fine is $150,000. Probation may be ordered for up to four years.
• Class 3 Felony:. The property or services were valued at $4,000 or more, but less than $25,000. A conviction carries a possible prison sentence of between 2 years and 8.75 years. The maximum allowable fine is $150,000. Probation may be ordered for up to five years.
• Class 2 Felony:. The property or services were valued at $25,000 or more. A conviction carries a possible prison sentence of between 3 years and 12.5 years. The maximum allowable fine is $150,000. Probation may be ordered for up to seven years.

If you stand accused of such a a crime, contact Robert A. Dodell, Attorney at Law, now. Your freedom, your rights and your future are at stake. It is very important that you speak to an experienced and aggressive theft attorney who is familiar with such matters. Robert provides individual service when protecting your rights. Contact Robert A. Dodell, Attorney at Law, directly by email or by calling 480-860-4321 now for a free initial consultation.