Protecting Your Future After A Theft Charge
A theft charge can create uncertainty about your future and leave you unsure about what to do next. Taking early action can help you understand the accusation, preserve important evidence and prepare a defense based on the facts of your case.
Founded in 2006, Duffee Law Firm, LLC provides personal attention from a solo attorney who takes the time to listen to your concerns and explain your legal options. The firm represents people in Carrollton and throughout the surrounding area, offering focused guidance and an honest assessment of the challenges ahead. Our firm also stands to defend you so that you can move on with your life without the stigma of a theft charge.
Skilled Legal Support
It makes a difference which legal team you hire for your defense. Attorney Robert Duffee and the entire staff at Duffee Law Firm, LLC know the worry and confusion you feel, and they are here to help you rise above your charges and know about your legal options.
Penalties And Collateral Consequences Of A Theft Conviction
A theft conviction may affect more than the sentence imposed by the court. The consequences depend on whether you face a misdemeanor or felony, the value of the property, your record and the facts of the alleged offense. Depending on your case, you could face:
- Jail or prison time and court-imposed fines
- Probation, community service and restitution to the property owner
- Greater difficulty securing employment or housing after a background check
- Harm to your personal and professional reputation
- Problems obtaining or keeping certain professional licenses
- Immigration consequences if you are not a United States citizen
- Driver’s license suspension if a vehicle was used to commit a felony
These effects can continue after you complete the sentence. Immigration consequences require particular care because federal authorities may treat some theft convictions as crimes involving moral turpitude. Whether that classification applies depends on the specific statute and facts involved. You should discuss your immigration status with qualified counsel before entering a plea.
Understanding Georgia’s Theft Classifications
The value and type of property involved can affect the charge and penalties you face. For many Georgia theft offenses, property valued at $1,500 or less is punished as a misdemeanor. When the value is at least $1,500.01, the offense may carry felony punishment. However, the sentence can depend on the property’s value, the offense, your prior record and the circumstances. In some value ranges, a judge may impose misdemeanor punishment.
Shoplifting follows a different threshold. Merchandise valued at $500 or less generally results in misdemeanor punishment, while merchandise worth more than $500 can lead to a felony charge. Because different theft statutes may apply, you should not assume that one value limit controls every case. A defense attorney can review the accusation, valuation and statute used by the state.
Paying For An Item After A Shoplifting Charge
Paying the store may show responsibility and could help during negotiations. However, restitution does not automatically erase or dismiss a shoplifting charge. Once the state files a criminal case, the prosecutor decides whether to continue, reduce or dismiss it. Duffee Law Firm, LLC, can review your circumstances, communicate with the prosecution and explain the defense options available to you.
Criminal Consequences
There are a variety of consequences for theft. If convicted, you could face a felony. Minor theft can be a felony in Georgia if it is found that you stole items from three different stores within three days in the same county. The sentence for felony theft is one to 10 years in prison and includes a fine.
Call Us Today For Exceptional Legal Defense
Let us put our skills and over 20 years of experience to work for you. Call Duffee Law Firm, LLC, today at 770-884-6402 or contact us online to schedule a free initial consultation.