Flagstaff Theft Crime Lawyer

Flagstaff Theft Crime Attorney

Punishments for a theft crime can be harsh and extensive, especially if you have been convicted of a crime before. This is why it is vital that you seek counsel from a Flagstaff theft crime lawyer if you are facing allegations of committing a theft crime. Even if you only suspect that you might be accused of a theft crime, having a lawyer is a great way to ensure that your rights remain protected.

Our dedicated legal team at The Kaiser Law Group has over 35 years of legal experience. We know the consequences of a theft crime conviction and are committed to giving you the representation that you need to protect your future. We tailor our defense strategy to each unique case that we are presented with so that we can achieve a favorable outcome for our clients.

Types of Theft Crimes and Criminal Charges

It is important to understand the various types of theft crimes and their consequences. All theft crimes involve stealing a person’s money, property, or personal information. Being familiar with the different types of theft crimes allows you to better understand the possible outcomes of any charges you may face. Here are a few theft crimes that we defend:

Robbery

A person commits robbery if they threaten or use force against the person they are stealing from. This can either be to coerce that person into giving them their property or to keep them from resisting. This is a Class 4 felony.

• Aggravated Robbery: There are one or more other people present and aiding in the robbery. This is a Class 3 felony.
• Armed Robbery: A person who is committing a robbery, or an accomplice, has a deadly weapon, such as a gun, or threatens to use a deadly weapon on the victim. This is a Class 2 felony.

Shoplifting

A person commits shoplifting if they:

• Take merchandise from a store without paying.
• Pay less than the purchase price for an item by using some kind of trick.
• Charge the purchase price of an item to another person without their permission.

Shoplifting can be charged as the following, depending on the value of the merchandise and any aggravating factors: Class 1 misdemeanor (petty theft), Class 6 felony, Class 5 felony, or Class 4 felony.

Burglary

Burglary is the act of illegally entering or remaining in a building or structure while intending to commit a theft or felony.

• Third Degree: The building or structure is a nonresidential structure, a fenced residential or commercial yard, or a vehicle. It is a Class 4 felony.
• Second Degree: If the structure is a residential structure, it is burglary in the second degree. This is a Class 3 felony.
• First Degree: The person commits burglary on any structure mentioned while knowingly being in possession of a deadly weapon or explosive. This offense is a Class 3 felony if it is committed in a nonresidential structure or a fenced residential or commercial yard. However, it is a Class 2 felony if it is burglary of a residential structure.

Auto Theft

Illegally taking someone’s means of transportation or obtaining someone’s vehicle while knowing that it is stolen or with the intention of depriving them of the vehicle is a Class 3 felony. Auto theft can also refer to the failure to return someone’s means of transportation.

Penalties for Theft Crimes in Flagstaff, AZ

The penalties for a theft crime may vary depending on the value of what was stolen and the circumstances of the case. There are several factors that are taken into consideration when a court is determining the punishment for a theft crime in Flagstaff, AZ. Mitigating factors can lessen a defendant’s culpability while aggravating factors can increase culpability.

Penalties for a theft crime conviction include the following:

For felony theft crimes, the penalties can range from a year in prison for a Class 6 felony theft to decades in prison for a Class 2 felony theft. A person convicted of felony theft may also be ordered to pay thousands of dollars in fines. A person who is convicted of a misdemeanor theft crime can potentially be sentenced to several months in jail and a smaller fine.

Shoplifting convictions may require the defendant to pay civil damages to the store owner, such as:

• Damages done to the store or merchandise
• A penalty amount that is equal to the retail value of the merchandise stolen
• An additional penalty

Parents or guardians of minors who commit shoplifting offenses can be held liable for these civil penalties.

FAQs

Q. When Is a Theft Crime a Felony in Arizona?

A. A theft crime becomes a felony in Arizona when the value of the stolen property exceeds a certain amount. The exact value of the property will determine the severity of the felony charge. There are some exceptions to this, such as stealing the transmission or engine from a vehicle. No matter the value of the transmission or engine, this is always a Class 4 felony.

Q. Can a Theft Crime Conviction Be Expunged From My Record?

A. A theft crime conviction cannot be truly expunged from your record in Arizona. There is, however, a process where your conviction can be set aside, and you may receive a certificate of second chance under certain circumstances. While this does not erase the conviction from your record, there will be a notation on your record that the conviction was set aside.

Q. What Is the Statute of Limitations for Theft in Arizona?

A. The statute of limitations for theft in Arizona is different depending on the charge. A misdemeanor theft crime may have a statute of limitation of a single year after the incident, while a felony theft charge usually has a statute of limitation of several years. The statute of limitations can change, so it is advisable to speak with a lawyer if you have questions.

Q. How Do I Choose a Good Theft Crime Lawyer for My Case?

A. Choosing the right lawyer for you can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. Here are a few things you should be sure to consider in your search:

• The lawyer’s knowledge and experience level
• The fees, costs, and method of billing
• Communication style and responsiveness to questions
• Whether you are comfortable with them and trust them

The Kaiser Law Group: Your Flagstaff Theft Crime Lawyer

At The Kaiser Law Group, our team is well-versed in theft crime laws in the state of Arizona. We have the knowledge and skill to build a strong defense case for anyone who has been charged with a theft crime in Flagstaff, AZ. We take the time to evaluate your case and understand your unique circumstances. Contact our office today for a consultation.