Theft charges could result in life-changing consequences. Like most states, the value of the stolen money or property helps determine the criminal charges against you. However, even if a theft conviction results in a small punishment, it can affect your ability to find employment, impact volunteer opportunities, and create other ramifications in your life.
Theft penalties can be worse for people with a criminal history or those who steal high-value property, including hefty fines and the possibility of prison time. Luckily, one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys could help you understand the charges against you, the potential criminal penalties, and a conviction’s consequences, which could help you decide how to proceed. A Doraville theft lawyer could also explore the evidence against you to craft the best possible defense for your case.
How the State Defines Theft
Georgia Code § 16-8-2 defines theft as unlawfully taking or appropriating any property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of the property. The intent is a critical element of this offense—if there is no intent to deprive, there is no offense. However, taking is not essential—any manner can support a charge. There are several ways to commit theft:
- Taking
- Fencing
- Extortion
- Deception
- Shoplifting
- Conversion
- Porch piracy
- Refund fraud
- Theft of services
- Theft of lost property
- Receiving stolen property
The specific facts of a case will determine which charges apply, and the state must prove every element of the charged offense to get a conviction. An attorney in Doraville could explain whether the circumstances of a theft case would be sufficient to support the intent element.
Degrees of Theft
The value of the stolen property determines the punishment for theft. Georgia Code § 16-8-12 discusses the punishments for theft, which can range from misdemeanors to felonies.
Misdemeanors
Most theft offenses are misdemeanors. If someone steals property valued at $1500 or less, it is a misdemeanor. The only exception is if this person has prior convictions for theft, was a fiduciary at the time of the theft, or stole a type of property that enhances the offense.
Felonies
If someone steals property worth more than $1500, the state may charge it as a felony. The greater the value of the property, the larger the potential sentence. If the property is worth $25,000 or more, the potential sentence can be up to 20 years in prison. Suppose a person has two prior theft convictions. In that case, a third conviction can be a felony, regardless of the value of the stolen property.
Many other factors can impact the charges, including what was stolen. If the stolen items are harmful—such as explosives or firearms—or can be used to create destructive items—such as bomb ingredients—the penalties can be higher.
A Doraville lawyer could help you understand the theft charges against you. We could also examine the facts and determine whether a defense would be successful, whether the state may agree to a plea deal, or whether the state has the evidence to substantiate the charges.
Civil Consequences of a Theft Conviction
Petty theft offenses may come with minor criminal consequences, but that does not mean that their overall consequences are minor. On the contrary, theft convictions could still greatly affect your life. These convictions could impact your ability to get a job. Even employers who hire felons may be reluctant to hire someone with a theft offense.
Theft convictions can also ruin your reputation. People may not trust you if you have a theft conviction, and they may never allow you to explain the circumstances behind the charges.
Regardless of the degree, you should take theft charges seriously. In addition to explaining the criminal consequences, a theft attorney in Doraville could help you understand the other related repercussions.
Consult a Theft Attorney in Doraville on Your Charges Today
When you are facing criminal charges, you may be terrified. Whether or not you are innocent, you probably did not expect to be charged with a crime. You may begin to panic and feel like confessing to the crime—even if you did not commit it—is the easiest way out of the situation.
It is critical to contact a Doraville theft lawyer as soon as possible. We could assist you in interrogations, negotiate with the police, and take your case to trial. Schedule a consultation to learn more.
N/a