Tempe Theft Lawyer

The state of Arizona takes theft crimes very seriously. The penalties for theft charges can range depending on the severity of the crime. They can range from a simple charge for the theft of a low-value item to a felony charge. The charges for theft are usually determined based on the value of the items or services that were stolen. If you or someone you know has been charged with a theft crime in the state of Arizona, it is important to have a quality legal team on your side. The legal team at The Weingart Firm, PLLC can effectively explore all possible defenses on your behalf to help you avoid jail time and hefty fines. Contact The Weingart Firm, PLLC today to speak with a Tempe criminal defense lawyer about your theft crime case.

Theft Crimes in Arizona

A basic definition of theft is to intentionally take or carry away another’s personal property without consent or legal right. The state of Arizona has several statutes regarding theft in the criminal code. This can include shoplifting, theft of trade secrets, and theft by extortion. In the state’s general theft statute, A.R.S. § 13-1802(G), it can be defined as follows:

• Controlling someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of the property
• Obtaining property or services by making a material misrepresentation with the intent to deprive another of the property or services
• Controlling property with the knowledge that it is stolen property

Penalties for a Theft Conviction

The charges and penalties for theft in the state of Arizona can vary depending on the value of the property that was stolen, as well as other factors such as prior convictions and the circumstances of the offense. A person may face the following penalties for theft:

• A class 1 misdemeanor and up to 6 months imprisonment for stealing less than $1,000, unless certain aggravating factors apply
• A class 6 felony for stealing between $1,000 and $2,000, or for theft of certain items such as a firearm or an animal used for fighting
• A class 5 felony for stealing between $2,000 and $3,000
• A class 4 felony for stealing between $3,000 and $4,000, or for theft of a vehicle engine or transmission
• A class 3 felony for stealing between $4,000 and $25,000
• A class 2 felony for stealing $25,000 or more

For felony theft convictions, sentencing ranges depend on the felony class and other factors such as prior felony convictions, aggravating circumstances, and whether the offense is classified as dangerous. For a first-time, non-dangerous felony offense, Arizona law provides general sentencing ranges such as:

• Class 6 felony: approximately 4 months to 2 years
• Class 5 felony: approximately 6 months to 2.5 years
• Class 4 felony: approximately 1 year to 3.75 years
• Class 3 felony: approximately 2 years to 8.75 years
• Class 2 felony: approximately 3 years to 12.5 years

These ranges are established under Arizona sentencing statutes and may increase significantly for repeat offenders or aggravated cases.

Contact a Phoenix Metropolitan Area Theft Crime Defense Lawyer

The legal team at The Weingart Firm, PLLC understands how frightening it may be to face theft charges. With your future at stake, having an experienced theft crime defense lawyer on your side matters. Our legal team can explore all options to provide a strong defense on your behalf and work towards reducing your charges. We are ready to fight for you. To discuss your situation, contact a Valley of the Sun criminal defense lawyer from The Weingart Firm, PLLC for a free consultation today.