Washington DC Theft Lawyer

If you have been arrested or are under investigation for theft, the time to contact a DC theft attorney is now. Although the investigating police officers may seem friendly and tell you they just want the truth, they are actually building a case against you. A criminal defense attorney would advise you to say nothing to them that might be used against you and to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

Theft cases come in all varieties. From stealing a car to failing to return something loaned to you, there are many situations that can result in a theft charge. The consequences are equally varied—from jail time to fines and unseen costs in your personal life, a conviction can change everything.

DC Theft Defined

A theft charge may be levied against you if there is evidence that you took or retained someone else’s property and deprived the rightful owner, or converted the use to your own or that of another person. The legal penalty you face depends on the value of the goods or service in question.

If the theft is valued at less than $1,000, it is considered a misdemeanor charge and carries a potential 180 day jail sentence and $1,000 in fines. If the property is valued at $1,000 or more, however, you will be charged with a felony and face up to 10 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Shoplifting

One theft offense, known as shoplifting, has an almost universal meaning. If you take something from a retailer without paying you could be facing this theft charge. In most situations, shoplifting is considered a misdemeanor and carries up to 90 days in jail and a fine of $300. A relatively common charge, your defense attorney can discuss with you defense strategies to help your case.

Other Theft Charges

Under DC law, there are several theft statutes. You may be facing an automobile theft charge and up to 15 years in prison depending on your criminal history and the fact of your case. A charge of Taking Property Without Right is another potential theft crime, a misdemeanor carrying 90 days in jail and $300 in fines.

The variety of theft laws that a prosecutor can charge you under can serve to make your charges confusing. Discussing the case with a DC theft attorney is one way of ensuring you know exactly what you are up against. Call Jason Kalafat for your free consultation with an experienced DC theft lawyer.

Please visit these websites if you need a Maryland Theft Lawyer or a Virginia Theft Lawyer.