Allegations of grand theft in Scottsdale carry significant penalties if convicted. Retaining a dedicated Scottsdale grand theft defense lawyer to protect your rights is essential to presenting a strong defense.
The Scottsdale theft crimes lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices has handled thousands of cases over the last 30 years, and with a team of former law enforcement investigators, you can be confident that we will prioritize your interests to work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Unique Challenges That Come With Grand Theft Charges
Grand theft charges in Arizona present unique challenges that can complicate your defense and affect your future. The severity of these charges and the legal hurdles associated with them make it essential to understand what lies ahead.
These challenges will allow you to prepare and respond effectively with the help of skilled legal representation and can include:
- Determining the rightful owner of the allegedly stolen property can be complex and may require extensive documentation and witness testimony.
- The prosecution must establish the value of the stolen property to prove it meets Arizona’s grand theft threshold, which can involve appraisals and expert opinions.
- Grand theft is usually classified as a felony, which carries harsher penalties, including extended prison sentences and larger fines.
- The prosecution must prove you intended to deprive the owner of their property, a claim that may be open to interpretation.
- Courts may order you to repay the full value of the stolen property, which can add significant financial strain.
- A felony conviction can impact your reputation and limit opportunities for housing, employment, and education.
- Prosecutors may offer plea agreements that reduce charges but still impose significant penalties, requiring careful consideration with legal guidance.
- Fighting grand theft charges involves addressing both the immediate risks, such as incarceration, and the long-term implications, including the potential for a permanent criminal record.
When you work with our Scottsdale criminal defense lawyers, we will identify these challenges and address them head-on to protect your future. By focusing on uncovering weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and building a strong defense strategy, we will work to mitigate the impact of these charges on your life. No matter the complexity of your case, our firm is committed to helping you move forward.
Committed to providing exceptional legal service to each and every client through integrity, compassion and experience.
Get StartedThe Risks of a Grand Theft Conviction in Scottsdale Are High
Grand theft is a serious offense in Arizona and is typically prosecuted as a felony, carrying life-altering consequences if convicted. Under ARS § 13-1802, the severity of the charges you face depends on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the theft.
If you are facing grand theft allegations, it is crucial to understand the penalties that come with a conviction, including prison time, hefty fines, and other long-term repercussions.
You Could Be Sent to Prison
If you are convicted of grand theft in Arizona, you may face a significant prison sentence, depending on the value of the stolen property. For theft exceeding $25,000, you could be charged with a Class 2 felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 12.5 years for first-time offenders if aggravating circumstances are present, according to the Supreme Court State of Arizona Criminal Code Sentencing Provisions.
A Scottsdale grand theft defense attorney with Suzuki Law Offices will strive to mitigate these penalties by presenting evidence that challenges the prosecution’s claims.
You May Be Ordered to Pay Fines
Among the different types of theft crimes, a conviction for grand theft often results in some of the most substantial fines, which vary based on the value of the stolen property. For example, you could face fines of up to $150,000 for high-value thefts, along with restitution to the victim.
Your Scottsdale grand theft defense lawyer will work tirelessly to build a compelling defense strategy so you do not get stuck with exorbitant fines that will hold you back from your financial goals.
You Could Be Placed on Probation
Instead of prison, you may be placed on probation. This comes with strict conditions you must follow to avoid additional penalties, including the reinstatement of the original charges against you. Probation requirements might include:
- Regularly meeting with a probation officer.
- Completing community service hours.
- Attending court-ordered counseling or educational programs.
- Submitting to random alcohol or drug testing.
It May Be in Your Best Interests to Consider Alternative Sentencing Options
Pretrial diversion programs in Arizona provide an opportunity for certain individuals facing criminal charges to avoid a formal conviction by completing specific program requirements. Under ARS § 9-500.22 and ARS § 11-362, pretrial diversion is typically offered for nonviolent offenses, including certain theft crimes, and allows eligible participants to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
According to the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission, over 6,000 individuals entered pretrial diversion programs across the state in 2023, demonstrating its role in reducing the burden on the criminal justice system.
To qualify for pretrial diversion, defendants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by the prosecutor. These requirements often include being a first-time offender, committing a nonviolent crime, and showing a willingness to participate in educational or counseling programs. Additionally, defendants may need to complete community service hours or pay restitution to victims as part of their agreement.
Participation in pretrial diversion requires defendants to accept responsibility for their actions without admitting guilt formally. This distinction ensures that individuals can complete the program and have their charges dismissed without a conviction appearing on their record. However, failing to fulfill the program’s requirements can result in the reinstatement of charges, leaving defendants to face the full consequences of a criminal conviction.
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Contact a Strategic Grand Theft Defense Attorney in Scottsdale for Help Today
When faced with grand theft charges, the possible consequences to your reputation, relationships, and freedom can leave you feeling hopeless and unsure of how you will get through it. With a grand theft defense lawyer in Scottsdale from Suzuki Law Offices advocating for your rights, you do not have to feel like your world is ending.
Connect with our team now through our online contact form or call our office 24/7 to schedule your initial case evaluation to learn more about which defense strategies might suit the specific circumstances of your case.
Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
