Are you facing criminal charges for theft in Warrenton, VA? As with other property crimes, a theft charge often comes with restitution on top of jail time and fines. A criminal conviction on your record means a lifetime of restrictions and challenges.
Theft is the unlawful taking of personal property belonging to another person without their consent. The taking must be with intent to deprive the owner of the said item. Therefore, the prosecutor must prove your intent and lack of ownership or authorization to use the alleged stolen property, among others.
Theft lawyers at Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, are here to help you fight your charges and obtain a victorious outcome. We have an unwavering dedication to handling Virginia criminal defense cases with the utmost professionalism. Expect only professional, compassionate, and experienced representation from our criminal defense lawyers.
Theft is a general term for stealing property. You may be charged with one of the following theft offenses in Warrenton, VA:
If the value of stolen property is less than $1,000, the crime is petit larceny. Otherwise, the crime is grand larceny. If the stolen goods were sold online, shoplifting may be prosecuted as a federal crime.
Theft may be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor:
A person with two theft convictions would be charged with felony theft on his third charge. Fighting theft criminal cases is almost second nature to criminal defense lawyers. A criminal charge doesn’t necessarily mean you’re guilty. Make sure to hire VA lawyers with the legal experience and knowledge of criminal law to walk free as soon as possible.
Here are some defenses that can dismiss or reduce a theft charge:
A skilled and experienced Warrenton lawyer would study every theft defense available and would work to apply the most favorable to your case.
An experienced attorney can help you in this very challenging time. Remember that your legal counsel is your only ally in the investigation room and throughout the legal process. You need someone who knows what they are doing, cares about you, and is willing to spend the time and effort to get you out. These things may be hard to find in a court-appointed attorney. Warrenton theft attorneys can help with the following:
Again, you don’t have to face this challenging time alone. Get in touch with our lawyers for a free initial consultation.
Talk to our lawyers immediately if you or your loved one has been charged with theft in Warrenton, VA. Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, will walk you through the entire process, from investigations to trial. We will study your criminal case and plan your legal strategy as soon as you hire us. You may have tons of questions, and we are ready to answer them.
Call our law firm today for a free consultation.
Yes. Theft is a crime of moral turpitude as it violates the community’s agreed moral standards. Convicts of criminal offenses of moral turpitude may:
Criminal charges for petty larceny and theft must be filed within three to five years from their commission. Once the statute expires, the prosecution can no longer file a charge against the accused.
A juvenile aged under 18 may be charged with theft. The criminal charge will depend on the value of the property stolen. However, only those aged 14 but under 18 may be tried as adults.
A minor charged with petty theft may have his case dismissed for good behavior. Even if guilty of theft, a skilled defense attorney can help lower a felony to a misdemeanor. Speak with defense attorneys experienced in juvenile offenses for a free case evaluation.
A criminal defense attorney serves as your advocate and guide throughout every stage of your legal proceedings. From the moment of arrest or charge, your attorney will explain your rights, help you understand the charges against you, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your case. They will investigate the facts, review evidence, file pretrial motions, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or plea agreements, and represent you vigorously at trial if necessary. Your attorney ensures that law enforcement and the prosecution respect your constitutional rights at every turn, working to achieve the best possible outcome on your behalf.
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