If you or a loved one face any type of criminal theft charge in the Glendale, AZ, area, contact the Stewart Law Group today to schedule a meeting with a Glendale theft attorney. Theft is the act of knowingly taking property from the rightful owner. Theft can affect businesses as well as private individuals, and the court system in Glendale, Arizona pursues cases against theft charges very aggressively.
Defending Theft Charges
These are just the minimum and maximum penalties; other factors unique to a theft case such as aggravation could lead to increased penalties and secondary penalties. Additionally, actions in place for retail establishments victimized by theft allow them to pursue additional damages against a convicted thief.
The penalties for a theft conviction can be severe. A Glendale criminal defense lawyer from the Stewart Law Group can help an individual accused of theft in Glendale, AZ, clear his or her name or work toward lighter sentencing and alternative punishments to jail time depending on individual case factors. Contact our Glendale, AZ, office today to schedule a meeting with one of our criminal defense attorneys.
Why Hire the Stewart Law Group?
- The Glendale theft lawyers of the Stewart Law Group are former prosecutors, meaning they know how local prosecutors build their cases and what factors satisfy the burden of proof in criminal cases.
- We are committed to protecting the rights of our clients and believe in a client-focused approach to criminal defense.
- Since the early days of our firm, we have helped thousands of clients defend against a wide variety of criminal charges.
- Our attorneys have extensive experience with all types of theft cases, from shoplifting and petty theft to grand larceny.
Does a Theft Case Warrant a Defense Attorney?
Although a minor theft charge may not seem like an issue that requires a defense attorney, it is important to realize that even seemingly minor theft charges can lead to long-term penalties that can impact a person’s life for years to come. A Glendale theft attorney can potentially argue down the charges and secure lighter sentencing in some cases or prove mistaken identity or major procedural errors on the prosecution’s part.
The more expensive the stolen property in question, the more severe the penalties will be for a conviction. If there are any extenuating circumstances that establish the accused’s innocence, his or her Glendale theft defense lawyer will bring them to light and help secure reduced sentencing or acquittal. A private defense firm like the Stewart Law Group can provide a much higher degree of personalized representation than a public defender. Although most public defenders are great attorneys, they typically handle many cases at once and do not have the same amount of resources and professional connections as a private defense firm.
Theft Charges and Penalties in Glendale, Arizona
The state of Arizona penalizes theft convictions based on the value of the stolen property.
- Theft of property valued at less than $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying a possible sentence of six months of jail time.
- Theft of a firearm, animal intended for illegal animal fighting, or property valued between $1,000 and $2,000 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by six months to 18 months in prison.
- Theft of property valued between $2,000 and $3,000 qualifies as a Class 5 felony, which carries a penalty of nine months to two years in prison.
- Theft of property valued between $3,000 and $4,000 or the theft of a vehicle engine or transmission is a Class 4 felony, which carries a possible penalty of 18 months to three years in prison.
- Any theft of property valued between $4,000 and $25,000 is a Class 3 felony, carrying a sentence of 30 months to seven years in prison.
- Theft of property valued $25,000 or more is a Class 2 felony and carries a possible sentence of four years up to 10 years in prison.