Theft is one of the most common crimes across the United States and often one of the hardest to defend. The reason is because no two theft charges are alike.
The more evidence you can include in your case, the better chance you will have of a reduced sentence. Make sure you contact a Minneapolis theft lawyer as soon as you have been accused of theft, no matter how serious, in order to ensure you get the best outcome possible.
Theft Charges and Degrees
There are a range of criminal behaviors that can be classified under the wide umbrella of theft crimes. Fraud is often considered theft and may include:
- Tax fraud
- Credit card/ debit card fraud
- Check fraud
- Insurance fraud
- Health care fraud
- Mail and wire fraud
Additional theft crimes include:
- Shoplifting
- Larceny
- White collar crimes
- Embezzlement
- Mail theft
- Car theft
- Possession of stolen property
- Identity theft
- Computer theft
When it comes to handling a theft charge, every single case is different. There are a variety of factors that determine the consequences if convicted of theft. The defendant’s criminal history, the amount of goods in question, the victim (s) and the nature of the crime are all factors to consider. Furthermore, some theft crimes will span over the state lines, such as internet theft and mail theft, and thus may be handled in a federal court.
If you are convicted of theft, you could face several punishments including prison time, hefty fines, and restitution to the victim, rehabilitation, parole, and community service. You will have a theft charge on your permanent record forever which, in some instances, may affect your rights to own firearms and your ability to leave the country. Theft crimes can be considered misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors and felonies depending on the severity of the crime and the victim of the crime.
Theft and Expungement
If you are facing criminal theft charges, then you need to contact a qualified Minneapolis theft lawyer immediately. Even if you have been charged with theft, there is still hope. There are a number of defense strategies that can be used to prove your innocence or to ensure you get off with a reduced sentence. You may be able to make use of expungement, which, in Minnesota, is a striking of certain records in the court of law, depending on the situation. Olson Law Firm can help assess your theft case, gather evidence, interview key witnesses and put together a defense strategy that will hold up in court. Olson Law Firm understands the complicated expungement process and can help you during your Court of Appeals case.
Minneapolis Criminal Attorney
If you have been arrested or convicted with any theft crime, your best defense is to contact Olson Law Firm as soon as possible. There are several ways to walk away from a theft arrest without a scratch to your name. Olson Law Firm will show you how. For a free consultation regarding your case and your options, contact Olson Law Firm today at 612-816-2322.
