Theft Attorney: What is a Theft Attorney?

A theft attorney provides assistance during all matters involving stealing, larceny, shoplifting, and robbery. If you are accused of stealing something, be sure to contact a lawyer who has experience in these types of cases. Although it is tempting to choose any lawyer who you believe is qualified, a lawyer who has a proven expertise in working with similar cases is the better choice. The lawyer should be local to your area as well, because the laws and penalties differ according to the jurisdiction for the case.

The penalties for stealing high-price items such automobiles or large sums of money from a company may be stiff. Stealing small items from a store can also have harsh penalties, especially if you have been arrested for the crime more than once. Upon your consultation with a lawyer, you will have a better idea of the penalty that you may face for your crime if your defense is not successful. Your lawyer will do all that he or she can to help you get the most lenient penalty possible. Your theft attorney will explain whether or not you have been charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. These labels are associated with the value of the items that are stolen as well as the type of crime. For example, if you have taken items from a person, using some sort of force, your crime may be labeled as a felony. If you enter someone's property without permission and take items that are not yours, the crime may be either a felony or a misdemeanor.

Most people do not understand that receiving items that have been stolen is a crime, even if the receiver is unaware that the items have been stolen. It's very important to ask about the origin of items that have been given to you as a gift if you have any reason to suspect that the item has been stolen. If someone asks you to hold, or keep items that may have been stolen, it is best not to have these items in your possession and ask a lawyer for advice.

Tricking or lying to someone in order to obtain their property or possessions is also a crime. Most people are unaware of the laws in some states that make it a crime to receive and keep someone's possessions under false pretenses. If you are accused of this crime, your theft attorney will ask you specific details related to how you obtained the property. This information will be used for your defense.

In modern times stealing a person's identity is becoming an issue, because it is easier to assume someone's identity using the internet and through other electronic means. A lawyer can assist you if you have been accused of stealing someone's identity or if you are accused of using someone's personal information, such as the information from a bank account or a birth certificate. In some cases, it may seem easy to explain the mix-up yourself, but you should hire a theft attorney to speak for you whether or not you are guilty of the crimes.