Theft Attorney in Gilbert, AZ

Protecting Clients Facing Theft Charges

Facing theft charges in Gilbert, Arizona can feel overwhelming and even scary. After all, being convicted for theft will lead to severe penalties, such as fines and jail time, depending on whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Either way, these criminal charges can significantly disrupt your life, which is why you should act quickly and seek legal guidance from an experienced Gilbert criminal defense attorney for a chance to avoid conviction.

When you contact The Turner Law Firm PLLC, our skilled attorneys will be here to provide the legal support you need to safeguard your future after your arrest. Hiring our Gilbert, AZ criminal defense firm will allow you access to caring attorneys who have extensive experience handling theft cases across Arizona. We’re committed to using our legal knowledge and resources to build a solid defense strategy for your case. Contact our Gilbert law office today to learn how we can fight for your rights in court.

What Does Arizona Criminal Law Consider a Theft Crime?

If you’re not sure why you were charged with theft in Gilbert, Arizona, it’s helpful to understand what state law says about this criminal charge. First, keep in mind there are several types of theft crimes you could be accused of, depending on the details of your case. They range from robbery, burglary, and shoplifting to grand theft auto, credit card fraud, and identity theft. Regardless of your specific charge, a Gilbert theft attorney can offer you the legal advice you need as your case begins.

According to Arizona Revised Statutes 13-1802, the definition of theft is the unauthorized taking or use of someone else’s property or services with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of them. This could describe several actions, including:

Taking someone’s property without permission, with the intent to keep it
Knowingly possessing or controlling stolen property
Using services or goods without paying for them
Keeping lost property without trying to find the owner
Exploiting a vulnerable person to take their property while you’re in a position of trust
Using someone’s property or services without getting permission first
Obtaining property or services through fraud or deceit

If you were accused of taking these or similar actions and now face misdemeanor or felony theft charges, you’ll need legal representation from a theft lawyer in Gilbert, Arizona. When you reach out to our law office, we will make sure you understand your charges, the possible penalties, and your criminal defense options. Call us to get legal advice from a Gilbert theft attorney today.

What Are the Penalties for Theft in Arizona?

The potential penalties for a theft conviction in Arizona vary depending on the severity of the theft crime. In general, if you’re accused of stealing property that’s considered quite valuable, your theft charge may be serious enough to qualify as a felony, which could lead to prison time. Otherwise, it’s likely a misdemeanor and may be punished with fines, jail time, and other consequences.

Consider the typical penalties for theft charges in Arizona, and then be sure to contact a Gilbert theft attorney for help with your case:

Class 1 Misdemeanor Theft: This charge applies to theft of property or services valued at less than $1,000, If convicted of a Class 1 misdemeanor, you could get a jail sentence that lasts up to six months, as well as up to $2,500 in fines and restitution to the rightful owner of the stolen property or services
Class 6 Felony Theft: If you allegedly stole services or property worth between $1,000 and $2,000, you’ll face a Class 6 felony theft charge. If convicted, you could get four months to two years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000
Class 5 Felony Theft: If you’re charged with stealing services or property worth between $2,000 and $3,000, you’ll face a Class 5 felony theft charge. Your penalties could include six months to 2.5 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000
Class 4 Felony Theft: This charge applies when the property or services stolen in Arizona are worth between $3,000 and $4,000. The punishment for a Class 4 felony theft conviction includes one to 3.75 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000
Class 3 Felony Theft: If you’re convicted of stealing services or property valued between $4,000 and $25,000, you face a Class 3 felony theft charge. Your punishment could include two to 8.5 years in prison and up to $150,000 in fines
Class 2 Felony Theft: You could be charged with one of the most serious theft offenses if you allegedly stole property or services valued over $25,000. If convicted, your punishment could include three to 12.5 years in prison and fines of up to $150,000

Note that these penalties are typically for first-time offenders who have no aggravating factors associated with their case. If you’re accused of using a deadly weapon or causing physical injury to someone during your theft crime in Gilbert, Arizona, you will likely face more severe penalties, such as additional time in prison. The same is likely true if this is a repeat offense.

If you’re concerned about the possibility of a jail sentence, community service, and fines for a theft crime, you should talk to a skilled defense attorney who has helped countless Gilbert, AZ clients get the best possible results. Whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor or felony charges involving theft and other property crimes, you deserve to get quality legal assistance from an experienced attorney serving Gilbert, Arizona and the rest of Maricopa County. Contact our Gilbert, AZ law office today to hire a theft crime attorney who will fight for you in a court of law.

What Defense Strategies Can an Arizona Attorney Use to Defend You from Property Crime Charges?

If you were accused of a theft crime, you don’t have to face this criminal charge alone. A skilled Gilbert criminal defense lawyer can review the circumstances of your case and identify the best defense strategy to pursue. Some common approaches to accusations of theft crimes include:

Lack of intent to steal: This argues that you did not intend to permanently take or deprive the owner of their property
Ownership dispute: This defense angle claims that you believed the property was yours or that you had a legitimate claim to it
Insufficient evidence: This angle challenges the prosecution’s case by showing they lack evidence, or the evidence they have presented is incorrect
Mistaken identity: This defense strategy involves presenting evidence that someone else committed the crime
Violation of rights: This approach to your defense case highlights any procedural errors or misconduct by the police during your arrest, such as unlawful searches or seizures
Entrapment or coercion: Your lawyer might show proof that you were pressured or coerced into committing a theft crime

These are some possible defenses that can lead to reduced charges, lighter penalties, or even a dismissal of your case. You can learn about other possible strategies when you meet with a Gilbert, AZ lawyer for a consultation. After your meeting, you can expect the lawyer to carefully evaluate the evidence and circumstances surrounding your theft crime charge to determine the best path forward. Call our Gilbert, AZ office today to learn more about what our lawyers can do to defend you from felony or misdemeanor theft crime charges.

How Can a Gilbert Theft Lawyer Benefit Your Case?

If you were accused of taking someone else’s property or using services without paying for them, you should seek legal advice. The penalties for property crimes in Gilbert, AZ can be harsh, and having a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer on your side can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At The Turner Law Firm PLLC, our team is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation to clients facing theft charges and other property crimes in Arizona. You can count on us to guide you through the complexities of the legal process and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

Whether your goal is to prove that you’re not guilty of property crimes, negotiate a favorable plea deal, or minimize the penalties of a conviction, we are here to help. We understand how stressful criminal charges can be, so we’ll be sure to walk with you every step of the way while providing the legal support you need. If you’re ready to begin building a strong case, call 480-568-5590 to schedule a consultation with a trusted legal team in Gilbert, AZ.