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Theft is a mistake that many people have made in their lifetimes. Unfortunately, Arizona has strict penalties for theft crimes. At AZ Defenders, we do not believe one moment of poor judgment or a misunderstanding should define the rest of your life. Our Tempe theft attorneys can help you properly handle the charges against you. We will work toward a positive resolution on your behalf as your defense attorneys. Contact us today for a free consultation with our local theft attorneys.
In Arizona, theft is a broad term that can describe many crimes. In general, it refers to the crime of taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive that person of the property forever. Taking another person’s property without that person’s permission is theft. Theft can refer to multiple types of crimes in Arizona in various categories. It can refer to a robbery or mugging, as well as white-collar crimes such as extortion.
To convict a defendant of a theft crime in Arizona, the prosecution has to prove a few elements to be true beyond a reasonable doubt. The exact elements can vary according to the specific type of theft crime charged. In general, however, the prosecution will need to establish that the defendant knowingly and without lawful authority controlled or obtained someone else’s property without that person’s permission and had the intent to permanently deprive that person of the property. To learn more about what qualifies as theft under Arizona law, speak with a criminal defense lawyer in Tempe.
Theft charges in Arizona come in different degrees based on the type of property stolen and the value of the property. Petty theft is the lowest level. It is a class 1 misdemeanor that involves stolen goods with a value of less than $1,000. The penalties for petty theft in Arizona include imprisonment for up to six months and a fine of no more than $2,500. From there, the penalties increase correspondingly with the increase in value of the stolen goods.
The degree of the criminal conviction will determine the penalties assessed. On top of fines and time in prison, a theft conviction could also lead to mandatory probation, restitution, community service and civil penalties. Speak with a local Tempe theft lawyer at AZ Defenders to learn more about the different penalties for theft in Arizona.
A theft conviction in Arizona could ruin your life. It could take away your freedom, destroy your relationships, and cost you big in fines and penalties. The right defense strategy is imperative to protecting your future. Theft defenses can include an honest misunderstanding, owner’s consent, lack of intent to steal, alibi, intoxication, return of the property, entrapment and civil rights violations. A Tempe theft attorney from AZ Defenders can help you choose the ideal defense strategy for your particular theft case.
You do not have to sit back and accept the criminal charges brought against you for an alleged theft crime in Tempe, Arizona. The theft crimes attorneys at AZ Defenders can help you fight back. Speak to our aggressive defense lawyers today. Schedule a free consultation in Tempe at (480) 456-6400 or by contacting us online 24/7.