Phoenix Theft Crime Attorney
Defending Against Theft Crime Charges in Arizona
When facing theft charges, the potential consequences can be overwhelming. It's vital to have a legal team that understands the intricacies of theft law and has a proven track record of defending clients from harsh penalties. At MayesTelles PLLC, we are committed to achieving the best possible outcomes by crafting tailored defense strategies that carefully consider the uniqueness of each case.
Call MayesTelles PLLC today at (602) 428-7104 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our theft crime lawyer in Phoenix.
Why Choose Us?
Have you or a loved one been arrested for theft? We understand the unique nature of these cases and have the depth of experience you need for an effective defense.
Choosing our firm has benefits, including:
- Nearly 200 years of experience
- We are available 24/7 to take your calls
- We are former criminal prosecutors
- We have handled thousands of cases
- We offer free case reviews
In the state of Arizona, theft crimes cover a wide range of offenses. Some are less serious and can be classified as misdemeanors or lesser felonies, such as shoplifting. More serious theft crimes like auto theft are felonies with harsher sentences.
Common Types of Theft Crimes
At MayesTelles PLLC, we have a detailed understanding of Arizona theft laws and can skillfully defend you from any type of theft charge. Call us today if you are facing theft crime charges, including any of the following or a related offense:
- Auto Theft: This involves the unauthorized taking of a motor vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.
- Burglary: Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building, structure, or vehicle with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. It does not necessarily involve taking property but focuses on the act of entering unlawfully.
- Robbery: Robbery is the unlawful taking of property from a person's immediate possession or control by force, threat of force, or intimidation. Unlike simple theft, robbery involves direct confrontation or interaction with the victim.
- Shoplifting: Shoplifting occurs when someone steals merchandise from a retail establishment without paying for it. This can involve concealing items, altering price tags, or attempting to leave the store without paying.
- Trafficking in Stolen Property: This involves knowingly buying, selling, receiving, or possessing stolen property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of it or to sell it for profit.
- Embezzlement: Embezzlement occurs when someone entrusted with handling someone else's money or property unlawfully appropriates it for their own use or benefit.
- Fraud: Fraud involves deceiving someone for personal gain, typically through false representations or promises. This can include various types of financial fraud, insurance fraud, or internet fraud.
Theft Defined: ARS 13-1802
Theft in the Arizona Revised Statutes is defined as willfully or knowingly depriving someone of their property, controlling that property with the intent to deprive, controlling property that is known to be stolen, and related acts. This offense is categorized into two main types: petty theft and grand theft.
Petty theft, also known as misdemeanor theft, involves the unlawful taking of property or services valued below a certain threshold determined by law. Penalties for petty theft may include fines, restitution to the victim, probation, community service, and/or up to six months in jail.
On the other hand, grand theft involves the unlawful taking of property or services valued above a certain threshold. Grand theft is considered a more serious offense compared to petty theft and is often charged as a felony.
The severity of the felony charge for grand theft may vary based on factors such as the value of the stolen property, the defendant's criminal history, and any aggravating circumstances present. Penalties for grand theft may include fines, restitution to the victim, probation, community service, and imprisonment ranging from one year to several years, depending on the classification of the felony.
There are various degrees of theft charges. The degree depends on the value of the items stolen, and in some cases, the manner in which they were stolen.
- Class 2 Felony – Theft of money or items valued at $25,000 or more
- Class 3 Felony – Theft of money or items valued at more than $4,000 but less than $25,000
- Class 4 Felony – Theft of money or items valued at more than $3,000 but less than $4,000
- Class 5 Felony – Theft of money or items valued at more than $2,000 but less than $3,000
- Class 6 Felony – Theft of money or items valued at more than $1,000 but less than $2,000
- Class 1 Misdemeanor – Theft of money or items valued at less than $1,000 (exceptions for cases of money or items stolen directly from the person of another, a firearm, or an animal stolen for animal fighting)
Were you or a loved one arrested for a theft crime? Our theft crime attorneys in Phoenix at MayesTelles PLLC can review your case for free. Contact us to learn your legal rights and options.
Understanding Shoplifting Laws in Phoenix (A.R.S. §13-1805)
Arizona state law defines shoplifting as stealing merchandise from a shop by:
- Removing the item without paying
- Charging the price to a false identity or person without permission
- Paying less than the purchase price through tricks or deceit
- Moving the item from one container to another
- Concealment
If the value of the merchandise stolen is $2,000 or more or if the crime was linked to a street gang, it is a class 5 felony. If the value is between $1,000 and $2,000, or if the item was a firearm, it is a class 6 felony. An offense involving property valued less than $1,000 is charged as a class 1 misdemeanor.
Organized Retail Theft in Phoenix (A.R.S. §13-1819)
Organized retail theft is distinct from shoplifting, even though they are often confused. A person commits organized retail theft when they use any item to facilitate their shoplifting, such as a container or a crowbar. Organized retail theft also involves stealing merchandise with the intent of resale or trading. This offense is a class 4 felony.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Should I Do Immediately After Being Charged with a Theft Crime?
If you have been charged with a theft crime, it is crucial to remain calm and seek legal representation as soon as possible. Start by contacting MayesTelles PLLC to schedule a free consultation where we will review the specifics of your case. Avoid discussing the case with anyone other than your lawyer, as statements made to others can potentially be used against you. Document any details you recall about the alleged incident, as this information can be vital in building a strong defense or negotiating plea deals. Our team at MayesTelles PLLC will guide you through each step, ensuring you understand your rights and options throughout the legal process.
Can You Avoid Jail Time for Theft Crimes?
While each case has nuances, avoiding jail time is often possible in theft crime cases, particularly for first-time offenders or misdemeanor charges. Alternative sentences such as probation, community service, or diversion programs may be available based on the severity of the offense and the defendant's criminal history. At MayesTelles PLLC, we strive to minimize the impact on your life by negotiating such alternatives whenever possible. Engaging a knowledgeable lawyer early can significantly affect the sentencing phase, as we meticulously assess all viable options and present persuasive arguments to the court.
Contact Our Phoenix Theft Crime Attorney Today
Don't hesitate to consult with a defense attorney if you have been charged with a theft crime. At MayesTelles PLLC, our experienced legal team provides a free case evaluation and we can help you determine what legal action to take in your defense. We have handled numerous theft crime cases and can skillfully represent you and defend your rights in court.
Call (602) 428-7104 now to speak with our Phoenix theft crime lawyer.
We've Won Thousands of Cases
-
Case Dismissed
MayesTelles client, M.L., was charged with felony theft and fraud schemes and faced mandatory prison if convicted. Attorney David Lish was able to get the case dismissed with prejudice before trial.
-
Class 3 Felony Theft Charge
Location: Maricopa County Superior Court Our client, G.M., was charged with class 3 felony theft. We were able to get this charge reduced to a misdemeanor.
-
Client Charged with Felony Theft
Our client was facing a fourth degree felony theft charge, but we were able to achieve a case dismissal.
-
Client Charged with Four Felony Counts
Our client, Ms. D., was charged with two counts of forgery - a class 4 Felony as well as theft - a class 2 Felony and also fraudulent schemes and artifices - a class 2 Felony. We were able to get her conviction reduced to a class 6 undesignated felony with the opportunity to reduce further to a misdemeanor. Location: Maricopa County Superior Court
-
Client Charged with Shoplifting
Our client, Ms. H., was charged with shoplifting - a class 1 misdemeanor. We were able to get her conviction set aside. Location: Phoenix Municipal Court
-
Client Charged With Theft
Our client, A.G., was charged with Class 1 Misdemeanor Theft. We were able to get the client's case dismissed. Location: Phoenix Municipal Court
Why Choose MayesTelles PLLC?
-
Nearly 200 Years of Combined Experience
-
Thousands of Cases Successfully Handled
-
Voted Top 100 Trial Lawyers
-
Available to Our Clients 24/7
-
Former Prosecutors & Law Enforcement
-
AV Preeminent Rated Attorneys