Marietta Felony Theft Lawyer
All theft crimes are taken very seriously in Marietta, and throughout the rest of Georgia. Of all theft offenses, though, those classified as a felony are the most serious and carry the harshest penalties. A conviction for felony theft may result in jail time, high fines, and more. If you have been accused of theft, it is essential that you know your rights and the defenses available to you. Below, our Marietta felony theft lawyer explains more.
When is Theft a Felony in Georgia?
It does not take a lot for theft to be classified as a felony in Marietta. The theft of any property valued over $500 is enough for the state to charge you with a felony. Some of the most common types of felony theft include:
- Burglary in the first or second degree
- Armed robbery
- Conversion theft
- Computer trespass
- Grand theft of a motor vehicle
- Insurance fraud
- Receiving or being in possession of stolen property
- Identity theft
A Marietta theft lawyer can defend against your charges and may be able to prove that you legally possessed the property.
Penalties for Felony Theft in Georgia
The penalties for felony theft in Georgia are very harsh. Individuals who are convicted may face up to ten years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. The mandatory minimum sentence for felony theft is one year in prison. When the property stolen was less than $500, the offense is a misdemeanor. If convicted of misdemeanor theft, a person will face a maximum of one year in jail and a fine up to $1,000.
Penalties for a first offense of felony theft are generally lighter than when a person has multiple offenses. If someone has been convicted of theft in the past, the penalties are upgraded. Regardless of whether a person has offended in the past, a conviction will result in a permanent criminal record. This is always a serious matter but it is even more so when someone is convicted of theft. This can make it particularly difficult for a person to obtain employment, as employers take the crime of theft very seriously.
What is the Burden of Proof in Felony Theft Cases?
To secure a conviction for felony theft, the prosecution must prove that you stole someone’s property and that you intended to deprive them of it. The state must prove these elements beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a very high burden of proof. A Marietta felony theft lawyer can find weaknesses in the state’s case to provide a defense that can help you beat the charges.
Call Our Felony Theft Lawyer in Marietta Now
Of all the theft offenses you could be charged with, those classified as a felony are the most serious. At the law firm of Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C., our Marietta felony theft lawyer knows the defense strategies to overcome these charges and will use them in your case so you can retain your freedom. Call us now at (678) 853-2500 or fill out our online form to book a free review of your case.
