Theft charges can lead to hefty fines and prison sentences. Regardless of the severity of the offense, it is essential to seek the help of combative legal representation. An experienced St. Charles theft lawyer could review your case and collect compelling evidence to build a strong defense.
If you were arrested for theft, do not wait to secure legal assistance. Without a skilled criminal defense attorney by your side, it can be easy to make costly mistakes that jeopardize your case.
Common Types of Theft Crimes
Even seemingly minor theft offenses can lead to serious penalties. However, penalties increase with the severity of the offense.
Petty Theft
The unlawful taking of property valued below $1,000 is considered a misdemeanor. The potential penalty is up to 18 months in prison, a fine of up to $500, or both.
Grand Theft
The unlawful taking of property that is valued at over $1,000 is classified as a felony. Depending on the value of the item and any prior offenses, the penalty can be up to 20 years in prison.
Burglary
Burglary refers to when someone unlawfully enters a building, home, or vehicle with the intent to commit theft. It does not require any actual theft to take place – the intent alone may lead to felony charges. The penalty for this offense is up to 15 years in prison.
Robbery
Robbery is the act of taking property from another person using force or threats. Penalties for robbery are more severe due to the violence involved, especially if weapons are used. For instance, a conviction for armed robbery results in a minimum five-year prison sentence.
The state can classify a theft crime as a misdemeanor or a felony. In both cases, the penalties may include a prison sentence and a costly fine. A competent St. Charles lawyer could investigate the theft charge, collect key evidence, and build a strong defense. With the help of legal counsel, they could reduce the severity of a charge or get it dismissed altogether.
Legal Defense Strategies
The outcome of a theft case will depend on various factors, including the value of the stolen item and if there was any violence involved. A St. Charles attorney could review the evidence and evaluate several defense strategies to determine the best approach for disputing the theft charge.
Lack of Intent
To be convicted of theft, the prosecution has to prove that the accused person intentionally stole property from the owner. If a person’s legal counsel shows that they did not intend to steal, the theft charge may be dropped.
Mistaken Identity
Theft charges are often based on eyewitness accounts or surveillance footage, both of which can be unreliable and inaccurate. A lawyer could argue that the person was not present at the crime scene or that someone else committed the act. Since the prosecution must prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, an individual could avoid a conviction.
Consent of the Owner
If the owner of the property gave permission to the accused person to take the item, it is not considered theft. Presenting evidence, such as a written or verbal agreement or testimony from witnesses, can prove that no crime occurred.
During an initial consultation, an attorney could discuss possible defense options with the accused individual and tailor a strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
Reach Out to a Fearless St. Charles Theft Attorney Today
If you were arrested for theft, you need compassionate legal representation. Without a St. Charles theft lawyer to advocate on your behalf, you could face unfair punishment and long-term consequences.
At Restoration Law LLC, we are dedicated to defending people against criminal charges. Schedule a consultation today to begin exploring your legal options.
