Being convicted of a theft crime is life-changing. You may face jail time, steep fines, and the loss of your reputation. Our Gilbert theft lawyers will fight to protect your freedom and your future.
Since 2015, The Law Offices of Brandon White have been here to provide 5-star service to our clients. Our Gilbert criminal defense lawyers will listen to your story and build a strategic defense.
Contact us today to get started with a free initial consultation.
What Are Theft Crimes in Gilbert?
Theft crimes refer to a type of crime where someone intentionally deprives someone else of goods or money that belongs to them. Under this umbrella, there are a range of crimes that may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies. Some examples include:
- Shoplifting.
- Robbery (where property is taken by force).
- Burglary (where a building is entered illegally with the purpose of taking property).
- Stealing a vehicle.
To successfully convict you of a theft crime, the prosecutor must prove that you knowingly or intentionally committed the theft.
What Are the Penalties for Theft in Gilbert?
It’s important to note that both first-time offenders and multiple-time offenders will typically face different penalties.
Under ARS 13-802, any theft of property that is valued at less than $1,000, except in specific circumstances, is charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The potential penalties for Class 1 misdemeanors are:
- Up to six months in jail.
- Up to $2,500 in fines.
- Up to three years of probation.
What If the Theft is Charged as a Felony?
The penalties for felony theft are more severe than a misdemeanor charge. They can include:
- Class 2 felony: Up to 12 and a half years in prison.
- Class 3 felony: Up to eight and three-quarters years in prison.
- Class 4 felony: Up to three and three-quarters years in prison.
- Class 5 felony: Up to two and a half years in prison.
- Class 6 felony: Up to two years in prison.
Fines are also significantly higher with felonies and can reach over $25,000.
What Other Impacts Do You Face for a Conviction?
In addition to penalties of jail time and fines, you can also face:
- Probation.
- Permanent record.
- Loss of professional licenses and other job impacts.
- Housing impacts.
- Immigrant status issues.
- Restitution.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crime lawyer serving Gilbert, call (602) 237-6772 today.
How Can Our Theft Attorneys in Gilbert Help With Your Case?
The legal team at The Law Offices of Brandon White is here to build a strong case for your defense. We will examine the evidence against you and challenge its inclusion where applicable. We will also investigate your case to gather evidence that supports your defense.
We will represent you in court and at every step of the legal process. If you are convicted, we will advocate for a lesser sentence. Our past results speak to our dedication to doing right by our clients.
Common Defense Strategies Against Theft Charges
While every case and defense is unique, there are some common defenses that may be used. These include:
- Misidentification: You were mistaken for someone else.
- Lack of intent: You didn’t intend to take something.
- Rights violations: You were arrested without probable cause, or evidence was gathered in an unlawful search.
- Duress: You committed the theft while being threatened.
- Shoplifting is a good example of a charge where intent may not be involved. For example, you left an item in the bottom of your shopping cart without realizing it.
Gilbert Theft Crime Lawyer Near Me (602) 237-6772
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crimes
Below are the answers to some common questions we hear from clients:
What Should You Do If You’re Falsely Accused of Shoplifting?
If you’re falsely accused of shoplifting, you should try to stay as calm as you can. Don’t consent to a search before being formally arrested. Ask to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. In some cases, you may wish to file a complaint against the person (or persons) who accused you.
What If the Theft Involved a Weapon?
If the theft involved a weapon, you will likely face more serious charges. These can include: armed robbery or first-degree burglary. If a crime involves a weapon, it also may be classified as a dangerous offense, which can eliminate the chance of probation.
Additionally, if your crime involved stealing a firearm ( but not using one), it can also push a misdemeanor charge to a Class 6 felony charge.
What If the Theft Was of a Vehicle?
In Arizona, stealing a car is called Theft of Means of Transportation. It may be charged as a Class 3 felony, which can carry a penalty of up to seven years imprisonment. If violence was involved, the prison range will be higher.
What Should You Do If You Are Arrested for Theft?
If you have been arrested for theft, stay calm. Avoid making excuses or trying to tell your side of what happened. Instead, ask for a lawyer and, otherwise, invoke your right to remain silent.
Never destroy evidence and always follow any restrictions placed on you by the court.
Will the Theft Be Charged as a Misdemeanor or a Felony?
As we mentioned earlier, the charge for the alleged crime will depend on the circumstances. If it is a first offense and you did not use violence or steal a weapon or vehicle, then it will likely be charged as a misdemeanor.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony? Misdemeanors generally incur far less jail time or may only involve fines, whereas felonies almost always include jail time.
Contact a Theft Lawyer in Gilbert Today
If you or a loved one has been accused, arrested for, or charged with a theft crime, then we’re here to help. Our legal team will listen to your story, analyze the evidence against you, and build a compelling defense.
At The Law Offices of Brandon White, we are dedicated to compassionate legal services. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation about your case.
Call or text (602) 237-6772 or fill out our Free Case Evaluation form to get started.