Abogados de Theft

Theft Lawyers in the United States

Theft charges range from minor shoplifting to grand larceny carrying years in prison. The consequences extend far beyond jail time — a conviction can block you from employment, housing, and professional licenses. A theft lawyer works to reduce or eliminate those consequences.

What Theft Law Covers

Theft is broadly defined as taking someone else's property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This covers a wide range of offenses including shoplifting, burglary, robbery, embezzlement, auto theft, identity theft, and receiving stolen property.

Most states classify theft based on the value of the property taken. Petty theft typically involves property under $500 to $1,000 and is charged as a misdemeanor. Grand theft involves higher-value property and is often a felony. Some states set the felony threshold as low as $500, while others place it at $2,500 or more.

When to Hire a Theft Lawyer

• You've been arrested or charged with any theft offense, including shoplifting
• Police want to question you about suspected theft or fraud
• You face felony charges due to the value of property involved
• A theft conviction could trigger deportation or affect your immigration status
• You have prior convictions that could lead to enhanced sentencing

How the Criminal Defense Process Works

After an arrest, you'll attend an arraignment where charges are formally read and bail is set. Your attorney will review the evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, looking for weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Many theft cases are resolved through plea negotiations. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, roughly 90% of felony cases end in plea agreements rather than trial. Your lawyer may negotiate reduced charges, diversion programs, or probation instead of incarceration. If the case goes to trial, the prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

How Sentencing and Financial Outcomes Are Determined

• Restitution is often ordered, requiring the defendant to repay the victim for the full value of stolen property or financial losses
• Fines vary by offense level — misdemeanor theft fines typically range from $500 to $1,000, while felony theft fines can reach $10,000 or more
• Judges consider the dollar value of property taken, the defendant's criminal history, and whether violence was involved when determining sentences
• Diversion programs or deferred adjudication may allow first-time offenders to avoid a permanent criminal record upon completing specific conditions
• Civil liability can also apply — many states allow retailers to sue shoplifters for damages beyond the value of the merchandise

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a theft charge be expunged from my record?

Many states allow expungement of misdemeanor theft convictions after a waiting period, typically one to five years. Felony theft expungement is harder but possible in some states, especially if the charge was reduced or dismissed through a diversion program. Eligibility depends on your state's laws and your overall criminal history.

What's the difference between theft and robbery?

Robbery involves taking property directly from a person through force or the threat of force. Standard theft does not require a confrontation with the victim. Because of the element of violence, robbery carries significantly harsher penalties — often five to fifteen years for armed robbery compared to one to five years for non-violent felony theft.