Scottsdale Theft Crimes Lawyer

Theft is a highly complex criminal offense in Arizona. The state’s definition of theft includes a wide variety of activities, each with unique penalties. Understanding your charge and how best to defend your rights requires assistance from an experienced Scottsdale theft defense attorney. 

AZ Defenders has been a trusted source of criminal defense in Arizona for many years. Our attorneys have over 20 years of combined experience in this practice area. Request a free case consultation to find out how our lawyers can help you if you’ve been arrested or accused of a theft crime in Scottsdale.

Scottsdale Theft Crimes Resources

Why Hire the AZ Defenders?
What Are Arizona’s Laws on Theft?
Common Arizona Theft Charges
Potential Defenses Against a Scottsdale Theft Charge
Why Hire a Theft Defense Attorney?
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Why Hire the AZ Defenders if You’ve Been Accused of Theft?

• We use a white-glove approach to criminal defense cases in Scottsdale. This means your attorney will work closely with you to personalize a defense strategy for your unique case and needs. This is how we pursue the best possible case results for each client.
• Our lawyers are available 24/7. We offer free initial case evaluations and make it easy to get in touch with an attorney. As your lawyers, we will communicate with you often and ensure that you are never left in the dark about your case.
• We understand the emotional toll that comes with facing criminal charges in Scottsdale. We will make sure you and your family have everything you need during this difficult time and work relentlessly to achieve positive case results on your behalf.

What Are Arizona’s Laws on Theft?

Arizona has a lengthy and intricate law on theft, found in Arizona Revised Statute, Section 13-1802. This law lists several ways to commit theft, from shoplifting to stealing someone’s identity. According to state law, a person commits theft if he or she knowingly and without lawful authority does any of the following:

• Controls the property of another person with the intent to deprive the owner of such property.
• Converts the property of another person that was entrusted to the defendant for a limited time for an unauthorized term or use.
• Obtains the services or property of another person by means of a material misrepresentation.
• Comes into control of lost or misdelivered property and appropriates the property without reasonable effort to notify the true owner.
• Controls the property of another person while knowing or having reason to know that it was stolen.
• Obtains services known to cost money without paying for them.
• Controls the ferrous or nonferrous metal of another person with the intent to deprive the owner of the metal.
• Controls or purchases the ferrous or nonferrous metal of another person while knowing that the metal was stolen.
• Takes control, title, use or management of a vulnerable adult’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property, while acting in a position of trust and confidence.

Arizona’s definition of theft is broad and includes common crimes such as robbery, burglary, credit card fraud and identity theft. If you are facing criminal charges for any alleged type of theft in Scottsdale, contact a criminal defense attorney at AZ Defenders as soon as possible for an explanation of the laws associated with your case.

Common Arizona Theft Charges

When an individual is charged with a theft crime in Arizona, he or she could face a misdemeanor or felony. Unfortunately, it is easy to escalate a theft charge to a felony because the classifications are based on the value of the item or property stolen. In general, if the property involved in the alleged theft crime is worth more than $1,000, it is a felony. This means the defendant could face jail or prison time if convicted.

Here is a breakdown of the seven basic theft charge classifications in Arizona based on the value of the property involved:

• Class 2 felony theft: $25,000 or more
• Class 3 felony theft: $4,000 or more but less than $25,000
• Class 4 felony theft: $3,000 or more but less than $4,000
• Class 5 felony theft: $2,000 or more but less than $3,000
• Class 6 felony theft: $1,000 or more but less than $2,000
• Class 1 misdemeanor theft: any amount less than $1,000

There are two exceptions to this rule: theft of a firearm and theft of an animal taken for the purpose of animal fighting. In these situations, the theft is a class 6 felony even if the value of the item is less than $1,000. The penalty for misdemeanor theft in Arizona is a fine of up to $2,500 and up to six months in jail, plus restitution to the victim and probation. Felony theft can result in consequences that range from 4 months to 12.5 years in prison, plus fines and restitution. Whether you find yourself facing simple theft charges or require a firearms crimes defense lawyer in Scottsdale, we can help.

Potential Defenses Against a Scottsdale Theft Charge

The defense strategy that your attorney in Scottsdale uses could make an enormous impact on your future. Every case is unique and deserves a personalized defense. Some potential options for your defense when facing theft charges include:

• No crime committed
• Alibi/wrong defendant
• The property was given as a gift
• Insufficient evidence of theft
• Present but not involved in the crime
• Coercion or duress
• Entrapment
• Incapacity

Your defense may result in the theft charges against you being dismissed or achieving case acquittal (a not-guilty verdict). If not, your lawyer can still use a smart defense strategy to reduce the theft charges against you and achieve more lenient penalties.

Why Should You Hire a Theft Defense Lawyer in Scottsdale?

Hiring a Scottsdale theft defense attorney can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. This is extremely important when faced with criminal charges in Arizona, as your future could be at stake. Rather than going into your case without fully understanding the charges against you and your legal rights, use legal counsel to negotiate a more favorable plea deal or represent you during a jury trial. A theft defense lawyer may be all that stands between you and life-changing criminal consequences.

Call Our Theft Crimes Attorney in Scottsdale Today

If you or a loved one has been arrested for an alleged theft crime in Scottsdale, Arizona or the surrounding areas, don’t hesitate to contact AZ Defenders to request a free case consultation with one of our knowledgeable theft and white collar crime attorneys in Scottsdale. We have a track record of successful cases and are known as some of the most aggressive criminal defense attorneys in the state. Call (480) 456-6400 today to schedule your free theft crime case evaluation.