What does a Theft attorney do?
A theft attorney represents individuals who have been accused of stealing property or taking it without the owner's permission. The attorney may also represent individuals who have been charged with burglary, robbery, or other related crimes. A theft attorney in your area can help his or her client to understand the charges against them and work to create a defense strategy. In some cases, the attorney may also be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. If you stole something or are accused of stealing, you should contact a theft attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case.
10 issues (detailed) handled by Theft attorneys
As you can see, theft lawyers near you can help you with various issues and cover many different areas. From understanding the charges against you, over creating a defense strategi to even negotiating a plea bargain, these professionals can help you in many ways. Representing you in court is only one of the services that a theft lawyer can provide you with. Here are 10 of the most common issues that theft lawyers can help you with:
- Understanding the charges against you: A theft attorney will be able to explain the charges against you and help you understand what you are facing.
- Creating a defense strategy: The attorney will work with you to create a defense strategy that is tailored to your specific case.
- Negotiating a plea bargain: In some cases, the attorney may be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. This can help you avoid a trial or get a more lenient sentence.
- Helping you understand the consequences of a conviction: A theft conviction can have serious consequences, including jail time, a criminal record, and fines. The attorney can help you understand what you are facing and make sure you are prepared for the consequences.
- Helping you navigate the court system: The attorney will help you navigate the court system, which can be confusing and intimidating.
- Preparing you for trial: If your case goes to trial, the attorney will help you prepare by developing a trial strategy and preparing you to testify.
- Representing you at trial: If your case goes to trial, the attorney will represent you in court and argue your case before a judge or jury.
- Appealing a conviction: If you are convicted, the attorney can help you appeal the decision.
- Helping you expunge your record: In some cases, the attorney may be able to help you expunge your record.
- Protecting your rights: The attorney will protect your rights throughout the legal process and make sure you are treated fairly.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
Misdemeanor crimes are typically punishable by fines or short-term imprisonment, while felony offenses can result in long-term prison sentences. The severity of the crime and the criminal history of the offender are typically considered when determining whether a crime is classified as a misdemeanor or felony.
What are some possible defenses to theft charges?
Some possible defenses to theft charges include: lack of intent, mistake of fact, and consent. To successfully use one of these defenses, you will need to have evidence to support your claim. An experienced theft attorney will be able to help you determine which defense may be best for your case.
What are the consequences of a theft conviction?
The consequences of a theft conviction depend on the value of the property stolen, the type of offense, and the criminal history of the offender. A misdemeanor theft conviction can result in probation, while a felony conviction can result in years in prison. A theft conviction can also have a negative impact on your employment, housing, and education opportunities. If you have been accused of stealing, it is important to contact an experienced theft attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building a defense strategy.
How much does it cost to hire a Theft lawyer?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of hiring a theft lawyer will vary depending on the specifics of your case. However, you can expect to pay an hourly rate for your attorney's services. In some cases, you may be able to negotiate a flat fee. Be sure to discuss the cost of your attorney's services with them before hiring them. The average cost of hiring a theft lawyer is $250-$350 per hour. The most expensive lawyers that handle theft issues can charge as much as $1,000 per hour. However, in most cases, you can find a qualified theft lawyer for less than $500 per hour.
What should I expect when meeting with a Theft lawyer?
When you meet with a theft lawyer, he or she will likely ask you questions about the specific details of your case. Be prepared to answer questions about what happened, when it happened, and who was involved. You should also be prepared to discuss your criminal history, if any. Your attorney will use this information to determine whether you have a viable defense against the charges and to develop a strategy for your case.
How can a Theft lawyer help me?
A theft lawyer can help you by evaluating the specific details of your case and developing a defense strategy. He or she can also help you to understand the charges against you and the possible consequences of a conviction. In some cases, your attorney may also be able to negotiate a plea bargain with the prosecutor. If you have been accused of stealing, it is important to contact an experienced theft attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and begin building a defense.
Authorities covering theft issues in U.S
Theft is governed by state law, so the specific rules and penalties will vary from state to state. However, all states have laws prohibiting theft, and the penalties for a theft conviction can be severe. If you have been accused of stealing (wrongly), it is important to contact an experienced theft attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. When it comes to lawsuit, the US federal government has a few agencies that might be of help:
- The Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
- The National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG)
These are just a few examples, for more information you should contact an attorney. You cant pick-up a judge like you would a pizza, so the first step is finding the proper one with authority over your case. If youre still in the criminal discovery stage, your lawyer will file what are called motions to compel. A motion to compel is filed when the prosecutor has evidence that they should turn over to the defense, but theyre either unwilling or unable to do so. The motion asks the court to order the prosecutor to hand over the evidence. If the prosecutor refuses, the court can hold them in contempt of court, which can result in sanctions.
If you have already been convicted, your best bet is to file a post-conviction motion. These are usually filed after a direct appeal has been unsuccessful, and they can be very difficult to win. However, if you have new evidence that wasnt available at the time of your trial, or if your lawyer made a significant mistake, you may be able to get your conviction overturned.
Types of theft
There are many different types of theft, and the specific charges you face will depend on the facts of your case. Some common examples of theft include:
- Robbery: Robbery is a type of theft that involves taking property from another person by force or threat of force.
- Burglary: Burglary is a type of theft that involves breaking into a home or other structure with the intent to commit a crime.
- Grand theft: Grand theft is a type of theft that involves taking property that is worth more than a certain amount of money. The amount that triggers grand theft charges will vary from state to state.
- Petty theft: Petty theft is a type of theft that involves taking property that is worth less than a certain amount of money. The amount that triggers petty theft charges will vary from state to state.
- Identity theft: Identity theft is a type of theft that involves using another persons personal information without their permission. This can include using someones credit card without their permission, or using their social security number to open a new bank account.
Penalties for theft
The penalties for a theft conviction will vary depending on the type of theft and the value of the property that was stolen. However, all states have laws that provide for both misdemeanor and felony charges, and the penalties can be very severe. Some common penalties for theft include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Restitution
If you have been accused of stealing, it is important to contact an experienced theft attorney who can help you understand the charges against you and the possible consequences of a conviction. Below is a list of theft law firms in your area, let's start your search and find the right one.
Studies and statistics related to theft law in the United States
According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), there were an estimated 7,838,000 property crime offenses in the United States in 2018. Of those offenses, burglary accounted for 27.8 percent, larceny-theft accounted for 69.3 percent, and motor vehicle theft accounted for 2.9 percent.
- The average loss per burglary offense in 2018 was $2,251.
- The average loss per larceny-theft offense in 2018 was $903.
- The average loss per motor vehicle theft offense in 2018 was $6,377.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), the top 10 states for vehicle theft in 2018 were:
- California: 963,913 vehicle thefts
- Texas: 317,230 vehicle thefts
- Florida: 236,336 vehicle thefts
- Arizona: 99,439 vehicle thefts
- Georgia: 93,366 vehicle thefts
- Oklahoma: 77,588 vehicle theft
- Colorado: 64,558 vehicle thefts
- Arkansas: 59,095 vehicle thefts
- Nevada: 55,770 vehicle thefts
- Oregon: 46,917 vehicle thefts
The penalties for a theft conviction will vary depending on the type of theft and the value of the property that was stolen. However, all states have laws that provide for both misdemeanor and felony charges, and the penalties can be very severe.