Theft

Marysville Criminal Defense Attorneys

Being charged with theft can mean a variety of different things. Depending on the offense being alleged, you could face up to 11 years in prison for a first-degree felony. In addition to incarceration, fines for misdemeanor or felony theft convictions can be hefty. Because of these potential severe consequences, it is important you have an experienced and zealous advocate on your side. Marysville criminal defense attorneys at Beck Peistrup, LTD provide seasoned and comprehensive legal representation to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients. The legal process can be complicated and lengthy when facing criminal theft charges, and we are dedicated to making sure our clients are kept informed and comfortable with their case’s progression. If you’ve been charged with theft or fraud in Marysville, Bellefontaine, Dublin, Delaware, London, or elsewhere in Central Ohio, our team at Beck Peistrup, LTD can help with your defense. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Theft Charges in Ohio

Theft or fraud charges in Ohio range from a first-degree misdemeanor which can result in up to 180 days in jail, to first-degree felonies which are punishable by three to eleven years imprisonment. Theft is a crime in which someone takes property or services from the owner without permission, by deception, or through other means. It is considered a crime of moral turpitude, and therefore can have more negative consequences than others due to the dishonest nature of the act involved. Some of the most common theft charges in Ohio include:

• Shoplifting and Petty Theft
• Robbery
• Burglary
• Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle
• Grand Theft
• Receiving Stolen Property

A shoplifting, or a petty theft, charge, is when property valued under $500 is taken, and is usually classified as a first-degree misdemeanor. A ‘theft” under Ohio law is taking any property from another individual valued between $500 and $5,000; or if, regardless of the property’s value, the item taken was a check or checkbook, credit card, motor vehicle certificate, or license plate. Thefts are generally charged as felonies. Grand theft charges include those for property valued at $5,000 to $100,000, or if the property taken is a firearm or other weapon. Being charged with any theft crime does not have to mean you will be convicted. A knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer at Beck Peistrup LTD in Marysville can help you fight the allegations.

Potential Punishment in Theft Cases

If you are convicted of a theft offense, consequences can include not only incarceration and fines but also difficulties in obtaining or retaining employment, revocations or denials of professional licenses, as well as immigration issues. When building a case against an accused individual, la enforcement officials and prosecutors gather their own evidence to tell the story they want to. If you are the one being accused, it is important for you and your attorney to also gather your own evidence to show that you did not commit the alleged theft. A seasoned criminal defense lawyer can also aid in plea bargaining if appropriate in your case to make sure you receive a lesser or alternative sentence, such as substance abuse treatment in lieu of jail. Ohio also allows for expungement of certain convictions after the passage of time, which is important in future job opportunities and other aspects of life.

Criminal Defense Lawyers Representing Marysville Clients

Theft charges can result in severe penalties if you’re convicted, that could impact all aspects of your future. The Marysville criminal defense attorneys at Beck Peistrup, LTD work hard to avoid any long term effects that could arise from a theft arrest. Our lawyers have handled thousands of cases and use this experience to craft the best defenses possible for our clients. If you have questions about your theft case, contact our firm today either online or at (937) 889-9999 to find out more about our services. We represent clients throughout Central Ohio, including Marysville, Bellefontaine, Dublin, Delaware, and London.