Facing accusations of committing theft can be frustrating and stressful, especially if the prosecution chooses to charge you. While a charge is not a conviction, a conviction could impact you for years to come. Having a theft crimes lawyer on your side in East Norriton could make a difference in the outcome of your case.
If you are found guilty of a criminal charge, several parts of your life could change. A East Norriton criminal defense lawyer from McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. may be able to help you fight theft charges so you can get a fair outcome in your case, whether it’s a verdict in your favor or a reduction or dismissal of the charges.
Our Defense Attorney Can Explain the Types of Theft Crimes in East Norriton
You may face misdemeanor or felony charges for a theft crime. A misdemeanor is a lesser charge than a felony. The type of theft charge against you will depend on what type of crime the prosecution is alleging that you committed.
Types of theft crimes include:
- Robbery: Stealing property by using force or threats against the owner, which means you could face assault charges in addition to theft charges.
- Burglary: Unlawfully entering a building to steal property belonging to someone else, which could also result in property damage via breaking and entering.
- Petty theft: Theft of property that has a low value, typically under $50.
- Grand theft: Theft of property that has a high value, typically over $100,000.
- Theft from an employer: Stealing property or money from your employer.
- Shoplifting: Entering a business such as a retail store and walking out with items without paying for them.
- Vehicle theft: Stealing a car or another vehicle that does not belong to you.
Prosecutors may be tough on theft crimes, but you do not have to face these charges alone. A theft crimes lawyer from our firm will help you understand the charges you may face. Then, we’ll create our plan to defend you.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving East Norriton, call (610) 680-7842
Penalties for Theft Crimes a Criminal Defense Attorney Can Explain
Theft charges could result in a conviction. At this point, the judge presiding over your case will sentence you. There are several penalties for theft under East Norriton law, which get tougher depending on the severity of the crime the court convicts for, such as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Per Pennsylvania law, you could face penalties that include:
- First-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to five years in jail and a $10,000 fine for theft of property with a value of $200.
- Second-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine for theft of property with a value of more than $50.
- Third-degree misdemeanor: Punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine for theft of property with a value of less than $50.
- First-degree felony: Punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine for theft of property with a value of $500,000.
- Second-degree felony: Punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a $25,000 fine for theft of property with a value of $100,000.
- Third-degree felony: Punishable by up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine for theft of property with a value of $2,000.
Violence and threats during an act of theft could add additional penalties to a sentence. In addition, if you fail to appear in court, the judge could issue a bench warrant ordering your arrest or detainment. You could also face other penalties such as having to complete community service, loss of your job or professional license, damage to your reputation and relationships, and a criminal record that impacts your future.
A theft crimes lawyer from McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. will prepare you for the possible penalties the judge could hand down in East Norriton, and we will work to secure a reduction or dismissal so that you can avoid tougher penalties.
East Norriton Theft Crimes Lawyer Near Me (610) 680-7842
Your East Norriton Theft Crimes Lawyer Will Build Your Defense
Building a quality defense strategy is a process that begins with a thorough investigation of the charges against you and the circumstances behind them. During this time, we will review the evidence the prosecution has against you and collect any evidence to counter it.
The burden of proof is on the prosecution, so they will have to show evidence that meets the high standard justifying taking your case to a full trial. It’s possible that we could employ several defenses, including:
- No intention to commit theft
- Mistaken identity
- Entrapment
- You were searching for the rightful owner of the stolen item
- The property is not stolen
We will also work to negotiate a plea deal that you are free to accept or reject. Should your case go to trial, we will stand with you in court and present your defense to a jury with the goal of obtaining a fair verdict. You are innocent until proven guilty, and we will protect your rights because you have the right to legal representation.
Click to contact our East Norriton Criminal Defense Lawyers today
Our Criminal Defense Attorney Is Ready to Fight for You in East Norriton Today
McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. has experience handling theft crimes cases, and our founder has unique insight into prosecutorial tactics as a former criminal prosecutor himself. Now we use his experience as a former prosecutor to build the defense of our clients.
You are not alone. A lawyer from our firm can build a defense, stand with you in court, prepare you for the legal process, and work to secure a fair case outcome. Your freedom is at stake and so is your life outside the courtroom. We provide confidential consultations to discuss the details of your case. Call us today to get started.
Call or text (610) 680-7842 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
