Coolidge Grand Theft Defense Lawyer

If you are facing accusations of grand theft, it is common to feel apprehension and anxiety about what comes next. This uncertainty stems from the unknown and the potential consequences of legal proceedings. 

Working with an experienced Coolidge grand theft defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices can help you navigate the next steps for your case and help put your mind at ease. We have decades of trial experience handling criminal defense and grand theft cases. Contact a Coolidge theft crimes lawyer to get your questions answered and to get started.

What it Means to be Accused of Grand Theft

In Arizona, grand theft is a serious felony offense that generally involves the theft of property or services valued over $1,000. Theft of property worth under $1,000 is typically considered petty theft. Prosecutors must prove the following to gain a conviction of grand theft:

• Unlawful Control of Property: Knowingly controlling another person’s property (such as a vehicle) with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
• Unauthorized Use of Property or Services: Using someone else’s property or service without their permission.
• Obtaining Property or Services Through Misrepresentation: Acquiring property or services through false statements or deceit.
• Control of Lost or Misdelivered Property: Knowing that property was lost or misdelivered and still controlling it.
• Exploitation of Vulnerable Adults: Unauthorized control or use of a vulnerable person’s property by someone in a position of trust. 
• Misuse of Entrusted Property: Misusing property or services entrusted to you for a specific purpose.
• Control of Stolen Property: Knowing that property was stolen and still using it.
• Exploitation of Vulnerable Individuals: Using intimidation or deceit to obtain control over a vulnerable person’s property while in a position of trust.

If you have been accused of grand theft in Arizona, consult with an experienced defense lawyer to understand fully what you are up against. The earlier you get started working with legal support for your defense case, the better opportunities you will have for gathering evidence and establishing a strategic approach to your defense. 

At Suzuki Law Offices, our Coolidge criminal defense lawyer can answer your questions about possible sentencing for different types of theft crimes.

Understanding Felonies and Misdemeanor Sentencing

When you are facing any kind of criminal defense case, you should understand the difference between felonies vs. misdemeanors. Misdemeanors tend to be considered less serious and are punishable by up to one year in jail. Felonies, however, are much more serious and are punishable by more than one year in prison.

Under Arizona law, grand theft is always considered a felony. Working with a grand theft defense lawyer in Coolidge may help you dismiss or reduce your charges below the threshold for grand theft, allowing it to be charged as a misdemeanor. The severity of the grand theft charge varies based on the value of the stolen property:

• Class 2 Felony: The highest theft charge of property or services valued at $25,000 or more.
• Class 3 Felony: Theft of property or services valued between $4,000 and $25,000.
• Class 4 Felony: Theft of property or services valued between $3,000 and $4,000, or theft of any vehicle engine or transmission regardless of value.
• Class 5 Felony: Theft of property or services valued between $2,000 and $3,000.
• Class 6 Felony: Theft of property or services valued between $1,000 and $2,000.

Possible Arizona Grand Theft Sentencing

In Arizona, the severity of your sentencing for grand theft is significantly influenced by any past criminal history you may have. Potential penalties may include incarceration in a state prison, significant fines, and probation. A.R.S. § 13-702 lists the range and presumptive sentencing for first offenders as follows:

• Class 2 felonies receive 4 to 10 years in prison, with the presumption for first offenders as 5 years.
• Class 3 felonies receive 2.5 to 7 years in prison, with the presumption for first offenders at 7 years.
• Class 4 felonies receive 1.5 to 3 years in prison, with the presumption for first offenders at 2.5 years.
• Class 5 felonies receive .75 to 2 years in prison, with the presumption for first offenders at 2 years.
• Class 6 felonies receive .5 to 1.5 years in prison, with the presumption for first offenders at 1 year.

Potential Defense Approaches for Grand Theft in Coolidge, AZ

When defending your case, our grand theft defense attorney in Coolidge will listen to your perspective of the events, conduct a thorough investigation, and meticulously review the events leading up to your arrest. 

This in-depth look allows us to explore all possible defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. We strive to persuade the court to dismiss your charges due to insufficient evidence or negotiate with the prosecution to reduce the severity of the charges.

Depending on the unique situation of your case, our defense strategy could include demonstrating that you had consent to take or use the property in question, which could involve demonstrating a written agreement, verbal consent, or other evidence that establishes a legitimate reason for your possession. 

Another strategy may be to prove that you were unaware the property was stolen, for instance, if you purchased the item from a seemingly legitimate source without knowing its stolen status. Wrongful apprehension, arguing that law enforcement identified you by mistake may also be a good defense strategy.

Contact Suzuki Law Offices for Help With Your Grand Theft Accusation

At Suzuki Law Offices, we are dedicated to protecting your future. Whether you are facing allegations of theft by deception, embezzlement, or grand theft auto, we possess the knowledge and experience to navigate the complexities of your case and trial.

Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore the best course of action for your defense.

Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form