Scottsdale Theft Crimes Lawyer

Many people underestimate the severity of a theft defense. If you are accused of committing theft, not only could your reputation be destroyed, but you could face harsher criminal penalties than you were expecting. Depending on the value of the goods or services you are accused of stealing, you could be looking at more than a decade in prison.

Fortunately, with the legal guidance of a team of former prosecutors from Suzuki Law Offices, you may be able to defeat the charges against you and get back to your life. A reputable Scottsdale theft crimes lawyer from our firm is here to help you clear your name. Discuss potential defense strategies further when you contact a highly experienced Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices for a confidential consultation today.

Elements of a Theft Crime Under ARS 13-1802

Arizona’s theft statute can be found under ARS §13-1802. You can be charged with a theft crime if you knowingly and intentionally use or take someone else’s property or services with the intent to steal or permanently deprive them of it. Theft charges may also apply if you use services without providing any form of compensation or paying for them.

Possible Penalties if You Are Convicted

There are multiple levels of theft charges. The value of the services or property stolen will determine the possible penalties you could be facing. For example:

• If the services or property are valued at less than $1,000, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum six-month jail sentence.
• If the services or property are valued at greater than $1,000 but less than $2,000, it is a Class 6 felony, which carries a maximum of two years in a state prison.
• If the services or property are valued at more than $2,000 and less than $3,000, it is a Class 5 felony, which carries a maximum 2 1/2 year prison sentence.
• If the service or property is valued at $3,000 less than $4,000, it is a Class 4 felony, which carries a maximum four-year prison sentence.
• The services are valued at $4,000 less than $25,000, and they are classified as a Class 3 felony, which carries a maximum of eight years in prison.
• If the services or property are valued at more than $25,000, it is a Class 2 felony, punishable by up to 12 years in an Arizona state prison.
• If your charges are elevated to the federal level, you may need help from a Scottsdale federal crime defense lawyer.

Scottsdale Theft Crime FAQ

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Theft Crimes Attorney in Scottsdale?

The exact cost of hiring a theft crimes lawyer in Scottsdale to defend you at trial will vary widely based on the specific circumstances of your case. If the state’s case against you is strong, you have an extensive criminal record, or our team will require considerable resources to build your defense, you can expect to spend more. However, when you can afford to hire a Scottsdale theft crimes attorney as opposed to working with a public defender, access to these additional resources will almost always be worth your investment.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for an Arizona Theft Offense?

The statute of limitations for theft offenses is not always the same per ARS §13-107. For example, in the event of a felony theft, if the value of the stolen services or goods is greater than $1000, the district attorney will have up to seven years to file criminal charges. The statute of limitations would begin counting down the day the crime was committed.

However, if the value of the stolen services or goods is less than $1000, the statute of limitations is much shorter. The prosecutor will have just one year from the date of the offense to file criminal charges. It is important to note that the statute of limitations can pause counting down if you leave the state and will resume once you come back to Arizona.

What Do I Do if There Is a Warrant Out for My Arrest?

If there is a warrant out for your arrest, it is important for you to take it seriously. The last thing you want is to be out in public somewhere and deal with the humiliation and embarrassment of being taken into custody. Instead, contact a respected Scottsdale violent crimes lawyer to get your warrant cleared.

Scottsdale theft crimes lawyers at Suzuki Law Offices can help you prearrange bail so you spend as little time as possible behind bars. Then, we can help you turn yourself in so you do not need to deal with the threat of being arrested any longer. It is always better to take care of outstanding warrants before they catch up to you, at which point you could face additional criminal charges.

Is a Theft Conviction Expungeable?

Yes, theft crimes may be eligible for expungement under ARS §13-911. When your record is sealed in Arizona, your criminal record will no longer be available for public view. This can increase your chances of securing professional licenses, being approved for housing, and being selected for career opportunities.

You will only qualify for expungement if your theft charges were dismissed, you were acquitted of the allegations against you, you were arrested but never charged, or you successfully completed the terms of your sentence. Depending on the level of the theft charges against you, you may need to wait up to 10 years Before you are eligible for record sealing.

Do Theft Crimes Qualify for Pretrial Diversion?

If you are facing theft charges, you may be wondering what legal options are available to you. If no one was seriously injured or killed and you do not have a criminal record, the prosecutor may allow you to enter a pretrial diversion program. Under HB 2603 – 551R, once you fulfill the program requirements, the prosecutor can dismiss the charges against you.

Completing the program terms is crucial. If you fail to meet these requirements, the district attorney will move forward with the theft charges against you. This means you could still be facing jail or prison and considerable fines if you do not uphold your end of the plea agreement.

Meet with a Leading Theft Crimes Lawyer in Scottsdale for Help Today

You might have assumed the theft charges against you were minor, but the fallout could be life-altering. Do not rely on an overworked public defender when you have the means to hire a private theft crimes attorney in Scottsdale from Suzuki Law Offices, who have the resources and dedication your defense needs to win. With our firm advocating for your liberties, you can breathe easier knowing a powerful criminal defender is in your corner.

In some cases, you may be able to avoid going to trial altogether by convincing the prosecutor to offer a plea agreement. However, our firm is not afraid to present your defense at trial if that’s what it takes to secure an acquittal. Fill out our confidential contact form or call our office to schedule your initial defense strategy session as soon as today.

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