Chandler Theft Crimes Attorney

A theft crime is the deliberate taking of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive that person of the property. A criminal conviction for theft can lead to a misdemeanor or felony on your criminal record. If you’ve been charged with a theft crime, a Chandler theft crimes attorney at AZ Defenders can help. Contact us today to request a free consultation.

Why Hire AZ Defenders To Defend Your Theft Crimes Charge?

We are a team of highly experienced and compassionate defense attorneys.
We use carefully constructed and customized defense strategies.
Our Chandler criminal defense lawyers will aggressively fight to prevent issues that could impact your civil rights.
Our attorneys will answer your questions and help you see a way forward.

What Constitutes Theft in Arizona?

Theft is one of the most complex crimes in Arizona. Many different acts can lead to a theft accusation or criminal charge. Arizona Revised Statute Section 13-1802 states that a person commits the crime of theft if he or she knowingly:

Takes someone else’s property with the intent to deprive that person of such property.
Converts the services or property of another person without the owner’s authorization.
Obtains someone else’s property using material misrepresentation.

There are seven other possible definitions of theft under Arizona law. The complex and multifaceted definition of theft in Arizona makes it important to speak to a Chandler theft lawyer if you are being charged with this crime.

Penalties for Theft Crimes in Arizona

The complexity of the law surrounding theft does not end with the legal definition of this crime. It can also be difficult to understand what penalties you may face with a conviction. The penalties for theft crimes in Arizona change according to the class of the crime:

Class 1 misdemeanor. Theft of an item with a value of less than $1,000 is a class 1 misdemeanor, punishable with up to 6 months in prison.
Class 6 felony. Theft of an item worth $1,000 to $1,999 (or an animal to be used for fighting) is punishable with 6 months to 1.5 years’ imprisonment.
Class 5 felony. Theft of an item worth $2,000 to $2,999 is punishable by imprisonment for 0.75 to 2 years.
Class 4 felony. Theft of an item worth $3,000 to $3,999 (or a vehicle engine or transmission) is punishable with 1.5 to 3 years’ imprisonment.
Class 3 felony. Theft of an item worth $4,000 to $24,999 is punishable with 2.5 to 7 years in prison.
Class 2 felony. Theft of any item worth $25,000 or more is a class 2 felony, with a penalty of imprisonment from 4 to 10 years.

In addition to possible time spent in jail or prison, a defendant convicted of a theft crime in Arizona could also face large fines and have to pay the victim restitution, as well as probation, house arrest, community service, and other consequences.

Defenses to Theft

The criminal penalties for theft can have a severe impact on your life. You may lose your job, relationships and freedom. A felony crime on your criminal record can take away your rights, such as the right to vote and own a firearm. The strength of your defense can be critical to your future. Common defenses to theft include:

Legal authority to possess or control the item
Legal ownership of the property
Return of the stolen property
Intoxication
Entrapment
Civil rights violations/police misconduct
Lack of evidence

Hiring the right theft crimes attorney in Chandler can help you avoid the worst possible consequences of a conviction. Your lawyer will work closely with you to tailor a defense strategy based on the circumstances of your case and your criminal history. Then, your lawyer will fight for the best possible case results on your behalf.

Contact a Chandler Theft Lawyer if You’re Facing Charges

If you or a loved one is being charged with a theft crime in Chandler, contact AZ Defenders to request a free consultation right away. Our Chandler theft crimes attorneys can help you understand and protect your legal rights during this difficult time. Call (480) 456-6400 today.