Have You Been Charged With Theft?
In Pennsylvania, one of the most prevalent types of criminal accusations is theft. Theft offenses fall under a broad umbrella. You should educate yourself on the law so that you can decide what to do next if you’ve been charged with theft or if you suspect you will.
What is theft under Pennsylvania law?
The types of theft charges include:
- Retail theft (shoplifting)
- Theft by unlawful taking (you take or unlawfully control movable property, or you unlawfully transfer or control immovable property with the intent to benefit yourself or another)
- Burglary
- Passing bad checks
- Theft by deception
- Theft by extortion
- Receiving stolen property
- Forgery
- Theft of trade secrets
These all have unique definitions, and your defense must be tailored to the charge you face and the evidence in your situation. What you think is a minor detail might significantly impact the state’s ability to convict you.
The value of the property impacts your potential sentence
Your possible sentence may be based on the value of the allegedly stolen property. It’s the property’s market value at the place and time of the crime. If this can’t be determined, it’s the property’s replacement cost within a reasonable time after the crime. The maximum penalties for larceny or theft range from one to twenty years in prison and a $2,500 to $25,000 fine.
In Pennsylvania, theft of a motor vehicle or firearm, no matter its value, is a felony (jail time of a year or more), as is committing larceny during a natural disaster.
Don’t go it alone
Here’s why hiring Neal Newman is crucial when you face larceny charges:
- The criminal justice system is complex, and we will ensure your rights are protected during the process
- We will investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and explore potential defenses like mistaken identity, lack of intent, or entrapment
- In many cases, our clients resolve their charges with a favorable plea bargain with the prosecutor, allowing them to move on with their lives
- Neal Newman has experience with defending larceny cases and knows how to tell your story and present your defense effectively
- Facing larceny charges is stressful. We will handle your defense so you can focus on your well-being, family, and job
There’s too much at stake for you, your freedom, and your family’s future for you not to at least talk to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Mistakes you make representing yourself in a criminal matter may impact you and your family for the rest of your life. Now is not the time to learn about the legal system while handling your defense.
Contact Bucks County Larceny Defense Lawyer Neal Newman
Attorney Newman has served clients in Southeastern Pennsylvania for more than 45 years. Theft charges are a serious legal matter because you may find yourself facing jail time, fines, and a criminal record weighing down your future. Contact the Law Office of Neal E. Newman so you can discuss your case, your legal defenses, and what he can do to help.
Learn more about our Criminal Law practice in Bucks County, Pennsylvania here.