Atlanta Theft Lawyer

Theft is a serious accusation, and its consequences could be significant. A theft conviction can lead to a reduction in employment opportunities or even lead to job loss. It can destroy your reputation and prevent you from being able to volunteer, work with children’s groups, or ever be able to handle money. It can even impact your housing opportunities, the price you pay for insurance, and whether or not you are eligible for loans, credit cards, or other financial resources. 

Therefore, no matter how petty the charges may seem, you should take them seriously. The consequences extend into every area of your life well after jail time and fines. An Atlanta theft lawyer could sit down with you and examine the charges, the evidence, and your options. Call one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys today for more information.

State Theft Laws

Georgia Code Annotated § 16-8-1 et seq. describes the state’s various theft offenses. People can steal property in various ways — taking it, fraud, physical force, shoplifting, and more. 

Some types of theft come with an element of violence or an implied threat of violence. Robbery, armed robbery, burglary, and hijacking all come with a threat or implied threat of harm. In those instances, punishments may be higher, even if the value of the stolen goods is relatively small. 

Property value plays a role in theft charges. Theft of property valued at or below $500 is usually a misdemeanor offense with a $1000 maximum fine and a maximum sentence of up to 12 months in jail. Theft of property valued over $500 is a felony, with a sentence that can range up to 10 years.

Some other facts that can trigger a felony charge include:

• Theft from gravesites
• Stealing a motor vehicle
• Stealing anhydrous ammonia 
• Stealing a firearm or explosive
• Certain types of electronic thefts
• Breaching a fiduciary relationship to commit theft
• A pattern of shoplifting at different stores, even if the value is under $500

Judges do have the discretion to charge these crimes as misdemeanors, depending on the circumstances. 

In addition, if the theft involved force or the threat of force, you could be facing other charges. An Atlanta attorney who handles theft cases could help you understand the potential interplay between different types of charges. 

Outcomes in Theft Charges

Many people think a guilty plea is the only viable option if there is substantial evidence of an offense. However, a lawyer in Atlanta could examine the evidence against you, the theft charges, and any potential defenses. 

When a plea bargain is the best option, the attorney’s job is to get you the most favorable outcome possible. Often, that means getting charges reduced, not only lowering potential penalties but also changing the nature of the crime, which can reduce its impact on your life. 

If you are a first-time offender, the attorney may seek deferred adjudication, which is essentially a pre-conviction probation. As long as you meet specific requirements, the state will drop the charges at the end of the deferred adjudication period. Many people think this option is only available for first-offenders, but it is actually available as long as you do not have a prior felony or have not previously had a deferred adjudication. 

Of course, going to trial is always an option. At trial, the state bears the burden of proving every element. When they cannot meet that burden and are unwilling to dismiss the charges, a trial might be a defendant’s optimal solution.

Consult a Theft Attorney in Atlanta

Facing criminal charges can be terrifying. You are facing not only a potential criminal punishment but also a dramatic change for the rest of your life. It is essential to get the help of an Atlanta theft lawyer. They can help you understand the charges against you, the strength of the state’s evidence, and your potential options. Plan a consultation to find out more information.