Roswell Theft Crime Lawyer
You may have saved up for a long time to buy your bike, car, laptop, stereo, or other valuable item, only to get it stolen. Nobody likes a thief, but the truth is that theft is a common crime in the United States. More than 100,000 thefts occur in Georgia every year.
A theft occurs when someone takes someone’s property or converts someone else’s services or property without the owner’s consent. The person intends to deprive the owner of the use or the possession of the property, as well as the right to the services.
Someone may take personal property, such as a vehicle or cash, or real property, such as land or a title to land. Theft involves depriving someone, and this deprivation may be temporary or permanent. It could involve disposing of or destroying property.
Theft crimes can be felony charges. Protect yourself and your future with help from a Roswell theft crime lawyer from Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C.
Theft by Taking
This is the most common type of theft in Georgia. Also known as larceny, theft by taking refers to the mere taking of anything of value with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the item.
Theft by Deception
Theft by deception occurs when someone deprives a person of property via deceit or fraud. For example, they may lie to a person or promise to do something in exchange for property and then not do that task.
Theft by Conversion
Theft by conversion also involves lies to some extent. It happens when a person acquires property legally but then uses that property for their own personal benefit instead of their original agreement. For example, they may buy a piece of real estate claiming they will use it for their family. They may instead sell it for personal profit.
Theft by Shoplifting
Shoplifting means stealing from a retail store. While shoplifting is typically a petty crime, stealing a valuable item can result in felony charges.
Theft by Extortion
Theft by extortion means stealing something by using threats. Threatening to injure or kill someone in order to take an item falls under this category.
Penalties for Theft Offenses
If you have been accused of theft, Georgia bases its penalties on the amount and type of stolen property or services. It is a misdemeanor if you steal property that is worth $1,500 or less The penalties are 12 months of jail time and a $1,000 fine.
Theft of property valued between $1,500 and $5,000 can result in five years in prison. Theft between $5,000 and $25,000 can result in 10 years in prison. These thefts can be classified as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on a judge’s determination.
Theft of property valued at $25,000 or more is a felony punishable by 20 years in prison. Theft of a firearm is a felony, regardless of the value of the firearm.
Contact Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C. Today
Millions of thefts occur every year. These thefts affect many people, depriving them of their possessions. As such, people can be punished harshly.
If you have been accused of theft offenses, seek legal help from Andrew L. Schwartz, P.C. We can assist you with your case and help reduce your charges. Call an experienced Roswell theft crime lawyer at (678) 853-2500 to schedule a free consultation.
