Harrisburg Theft Crime Lawyers

Defending Against Theft Crime Charges in Dauphin County

When a person is charged with a theft crime, their integrity is questioned. For those who are innocent, this can be highly frustrating. A theft crime conviction can hurt a person’s reputation and make it harder for them in the future. 

If you were charged with theft, you need the help of a Harrisburg lawyer who understands how to build strong cases. At the Dorward Law Firm, our team understands how to help you maximize your chances of a favorable outcome. Call now and schedule your free consultation.

Have you been arrested for a theft crime in Pennsylvania? Call The Dorward Law Firm today at  (717) 429-0411 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with one of our theft crime attorneys in Harrisburg!

Types of Theft Crimes

Any time property is taken without permission, it can be charged as theft. As you might expect, this can make for some interesting accusations. For example, a person might accuse someone of having taken their property unlawfully even though they gave it away to begin with.

Some ways to fight a theft charge could be:

• Returning the property: In many situations, simply giving the property back intact is enough to avoid criminal charges.
• Proving the property belongs to you: If there is proof of an ownership transfer, our team can help you present that and avoid any criminal sentencing. We can also help you uncover evidence that will demonstrate that change.
• Intoxication: People have been known to do stupid things when drunk or otherwise inebriated. We may be able to have the charges against you reduced or dropped by demonstrating that your intoxicated self made a mistake, and you will not do that again.

What are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Pennsylvania? 

In Pennsylvania, the penalties for theft depend on the value of the property stolen and other factors, such as the defendant's criminal history. Here are some of the potential penalties for theft in Pennsylvania:

• Summary offense: If the value of the stolen property is less than $50, the offense may be considered a summary offense. This can result in a fine of up to $1,000 and up to 90 days in jail.
• Misdemeanor of the third degree: If the value of the stolen property is between $50 and $199, the offense may be considered a misdemeanor of the third degree. This can result in up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Misdemeanor of the second degree: If the value of the stolen property is between $200 and $2,000, the offense may be considered a misdemeanor of the second degree. This can result in up to two years in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
• Felony of the third degree: If the value of the stolen property is between $2,000 and $100,000, the offense may be considered a felony of the third degree. This can result in up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
• Felony of the second degree: If the value of the stolen property is more than $100,000, the offense may be considered a felony of the second degree. This can result in up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

It is important to note that these are just general guidelines and that the specific penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the case. Additionally, theft convictions can have long-lasting consequences, such as difficulty finding employment, housing, and other opportunities.

Defenses Against Theft Crime Charges in Pennsylvania

If you are facing theft charges in Pennsylvania, several defenses may be available to you. Here are some common defenses to theft charges:

• Lack of intent: Theft requires the intent to deprive the owner of their property permanently. If you did not have the intent to steal the property, you may be able to argue that you did not commit theft.
• Mistake of fact: If you believed the property was yours or had permission to take it, you may be able to argue that you made a mistake of fact and did not intend to commit theft.
• Consent: If you had the owner's consent to take the property, this may be a defense theft charges.
• Ownership: If you believed that you were the rightful owner of the property or had a legal right to the property, this may be a defense to theft charges.
• Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove that you committed theft beyond a reasonable doubt. If insufficient evidence supports the charges, the case may be dismissed.

Contact Our Harrisburg Theft Crime Attorney Today

With criminal defense proceedings, it is always better to have enough time to build a strong case. Let the Dorward Law Firm help you protect yourself from the consequences of a conviction.

We can review the charges against you and give you the tools you need to build a strong case. With over a decade of experience, our attorneys have the experience to help.

Contact The Dorward Law Firm today to schedule a FREE consultation with our skilled theft crime lawyers in Harrisburg!