Theft Attorney

A theft charge can create serious consequences for your freedom, finances, and future. Pennsylvania law establishes different theft offenses and grading levels. If you need a theft lawyer, you should understand the specific allegation against you. The Law Offices of Heather A. Reiner, LLC specializes in criminal law and represents clients facing property crimes throughout York and Lancaster Counties. Pennsylvania defines theft as unlawful taking or disposition under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3921. Theft can involve unlawfully taking or exercising control over another person's property with intent to deprive them of it. Other theft offenses involve deception, extortion, receiving stolen property, or retail theft. Therefore, the specific charge and circumstances matter when developing your defense.

Theft Lawyer Explains Pennsylvania Theft Charges

Pennsylvania does not generally classify theft as “petty theft” or “grand theft.” Instead, Pennsylvania law establishes specific grading rules under 18 Pa.C.S. § 3903. The value involved can affect the grading of a theft offense. However, other factors can also affect the classification. For example, theft of a firearm constitutes a second-degree felony under Pennsylvania's theft grading statute. Theft involving an automobile can also be treated as a felony under specified circumstances. Consequently, do not assume a theft allegation is a minor offense. A theft lawyer can examine the charged offense and the facts supporting it.

Theft Defense Attorney Examines the Evidence

The prosecution must prove the elements of the charged offense. Your defense can therefore focus on the evidence supporting those allegations. A theft defense attorney can examine police reports, surveillance footage, electronic records, witness statements, and other evidence. The investigation can also address how police obtained the evidence. Depending on the circumstances, questions may arise concerning identification, ownership, intent, or possession. Those issues can become particularly important when several people had access to the property. For example, an accusation does not automatically establish that someone knowingly exercised unlawful control over property. The evidence must support the applicable statutory requirements.

Burglary Lawyer Near Me for Property Crime Charges

People searching for a burglary lawyer near me may actually face several different types of property-related allegations. Burglary, however, constitutes a separate offense under Pennsylvania law. Pennsylvania's burglary statute addresses entering certain buildings or occupied structures with the intent to commit a crime. The statute's grading depends on the circumstances. Therefore, burglary should not simply be described as breaking into a property to steal something. The alleged entry, intent, location, and circumstances can all matter. A burglary defense attorney can examine those issues and determine whether the evidence supports the prosecution's allegations.

Theft Crime Attorney Handles Related Property Charges

A theft crime attorney can also represent clients facing allegations involving related property offenses. These may include retail theft, receiving stolen property, theft by deception, and unauthorized use of vehicles. Pennsylvania places these offenses within its theft and related offenses chapter. Robbery presents another important distinction. Pennsylvania defines robbery as conduct occurring during a theft that involves specified circumstances, including bodily injury, threats, or certain forms of force. As a result, a robbery allegation can involve substantially different legal issues than a basic theft charge.

Defending Against Theft Charges in Pennsylvania

A theft lawyer can review the circumstances surrounding your arrest and the evidence supporting the charge. Depending on your case, the defense may address intent, ownership, identification, possession, valuation, or the legality of evidence collection. The defense may also examine whether prosecutors have established every required element. Pennsylvania's theft statutes contain specific definitions and grading rules that can significantly affect the case. For that reason, you should discuss the specific allegations with an attorney before making decisions about your case.

Contact a Pennsylvania Theft Lawyer

If you face theft, burglary, robbery, or another property crime charge, early legal guidance can help you understand your options. The Law Offices of Heather A. Reiner, LLC represents clients throughout York and Lancaster Counties. Heather A. Reiner examines the allegations, evidence, and applicable Pennsylvania law. She develops a defense based on the circumstances of each case.