We always believe that our clients are innocent until proven guilty. If you are facing theft charges, you should immediately seek legal counsel. Finding reputable defense attorneys can be challenging depending on the nature of the items that the opposition is accusing you of stealing. The value of the items can determine if you will be facing a felony charge or a misdemeanor charge. It will also dictate whether you will have a jail term, fine, probation, or a permanent criminal record.
- Appropriation of another person’s property is usually “theft” in Utah. It can be everyday goods, funds, and property.
- When the value of the same is under $500, it will result in a Class B misdemeanor charge.
- If you are unlucky and the value of the alleged stolen items is above $500, but below $600, you can receive a Class A Misdemeanor charge and receive up to a year’s jail term.
- In case the opposition accuses you of stealing items between $1,500 and $5,000, you can receive up to 5 years in prison.
- The jail term can go up to 15 years when it involves grand auto theft or the use of firearms during the incident.
You can find more about the different kinds of thefts and the sentences at https://larsennash.com/salt-lake-city/criminal-law/theft-robbery/. At Larsen, Larsen, Nash & Larsen, we maintain the innocence of our clients until proven otherwise. We always proceed with supporting evidence to prove their innocence. We strive to create a positive image of our clients before the judge and the jury.
Why Should Everyone Take the Allegations of Theft Seriously?
Irrespective of the severity of the theft, your record can take a severe hit. Crimes can question your honesty and integrity as a person. It raises questions about your employability and trustworthiness for all future potential employers. When a person’s integrity comes into question, they often face lack of employment options and lack of a productive social life, unless Larsen, Larsen, Nash & Larsen can prove them innocent in the court of law.
We have seen people receive felony prosecution due to poorly planned pleas. Even pleading guilty to petty theft can buy years’ worth of prison sentences in Utah and a criminal record. Living with a criminal record is especially difficult for adults. While applying for colleges, scholarship programs, or jobs, you will have to disclose all criminal histories and it is bound you weigh you down.
What is the First Thing You Should do After the Allegations?
The smart thing is to give Larsen, Larsen, Nash & Larsen a call before you go ahead and talk to the accusing party or the cops. Since anything and everything you say to anyone can be extremely crucial in building a case against you, you need to first speak to your lawyers to understand the nature of the situation.
The moment you see chances of someone accusing you of any kind of theft including shoplifting, retail theft, auto theft, burglary, fraud, or robbery, you need to contact a responsible and reputed defense attorney like https://larsennash.com/. We can help you find a way out, in a cost-effective way. The best POA is to contact your defense attorney immediately. Contact us today at (801) 964-1200.
