Theft Charges – Protecting Your Rights Against Serious Accusations

A Theft Charge Can Have Lasting Consequences – We Fight to Protect Your Future

Theft is a broad category of criminal offenses that involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. Even a minor theft charge can result in serious legal penalties, including fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record that can impact employment and housing opportunities. Prosecutors aggressively pursue theft cases, often seeking the maximum penalties, which is why a strong legal defense is essential.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we understand that every theft case has its own unique circumstances. Whether you are facing a misunderstanding, a wrongful accusation, or a charge that is being overblown by prosecutors, we are prepared to build a strategic defense to fight for your rights.

Types of Theft Charges

Petty Theft

• Involves stealing property of relatively low value, often below a certain threshold set by state law
• Commonly charged as a misdemeanor but still carries legal and personal consequences
• Can include shoplifting, pickpocketing, or minor acts of theft

Grand Theft

• Involves stealing property that exceeds a certain value, often determined by state statutes
• Can be charged as a felony, leading to harsher penalties, including significant prison time
• Can include vehicle theft, high-value merchandise theft, or complex fraud schemes

Shoplifting (Retail Theft)

• Taking merchandise from a store without paying, altering price tags, or attempting to deceive cashiers
• Can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value of the stolen items
• Stores and law enforcement often aggressively prosecute retail theft cases

Burglary-Related Theft

• Involves unlawfully entering a building, home, or structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime
• Often charged as a felony, even if no items were stolen
• Prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties for burglary-related theft cases

Embezzlement

• Theft that occurs when someone entrusted with money or property fraudulently takes it for personal use
• Common in workplace settings involving employees, accountants, or business executives
• Can result in both criminal penalties and civil lawsuits for restitution

Fraud and Identity Theft

• Involves the unlawful use of another person’s identity, credit card, or financial information to obtain money or property
• Often prosecuted at both the state and federal level, leading to severe consequences
• Can include check fraud, credit card fraud, and financial deception

The Penalties for a Theft Conviction

The consequences of a theft conviction depend on several factors, including the value of the stolen property, the defendant’s criminal history, and whether force or deception was used. Common penalties include:

• Fines that range from hundreds to thousands of dollars
• Probation with strict supervision requirements
• Restitution payments to compensate victims for their financial loss
• Jail or prison time, particularly for felony theft convictions
• Permanent criminal record, affecting job opportunities and housing applications

In addition to criminal penalties, a theft conviction can damage a person’s reputation and limit future career prospects, especially in jobs that require trust, such as financial or government positions.

How We Defend Against Theft Charges

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we analyze every aspect of the prosecution’s case to build the strongest possible defense. Common defense strategies include:

• Lack of Intent – Theft requires intent to permanently deprive the owner of property. If there was no intent, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.
• Mistaken Identity – Theft cases often rely on witness statements or security footage that can be unreliable or unclear. If you were falsely identified, we work to disprove the allegations.
• Rightful Ownership – If you had a valid claim to the property or believed you had permission to use it, we present evidence to support your defense.
• Illegal Search and Seizure – If law enforcement obtained evidence through an unlawful search, we can challenge its admissibility in court.
• Insufficient Evidence – The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed theft. If the evidence is weak or circumstantial, we push for case dismissal.

Who We Represent

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we defend individuals facing all types of theft-related charges, including:

• First-time offenders charged with petty or grand theft
• Individuals facing felony theft charges with significant penalties
• Employees accused of workplace theft or embezzlement
• People wrongfully accused due to mistaken identity or false allegations
• Defendants facing theft charges related to fraud, forgery, or identity theft

Frequently Asked Questions: Theft Charges

What is the difference between theft, burglary, and robbery?

• Theft involves unlawfully taking someone’s property without their permission.
• Burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime, which may include theft.
• Robbery involves using force, intimidation, or threats to steal from another person.

Can a theft charge be dropped or reduced?

Yes. If there is weak evidence, lack of intent, or legal errors in the case, the charges may be dismissed or reduced. First-time offenders may also qualify for diversion programs to avoid a conviction.

Will a theft conviction stay on my record permanently?

A theft conviction can remain on your criminal record indefinitely. However, in some cases, expungement or record sealing may be an option, depending on the severity of the charge and state laws.

What should I do if I have been falsely accused of theft?

If you are facing false accusations, it is crucial to remain silent and seek legal counsel immediately. Any statements you make can be used against you, and an attorney can help you build a strong defense.

A Theft Conviction Can Have Serious Consequences – We’re Here to Defend You

Theft charges can impact your freedom, your finances, and your future opportunities. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony theft charge, the right legal defense can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

At Ratliff Jackson LLP, we provide aggressive representation for individuals accused of theft-related crimes. We work to protect your rights, challenge the evidence against you, and pursue the best possible resolution for your case.

Contact Ratliff Jackson LLP today to discuss your theft case.