Property Crimes

Experienced Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer Aggressively Representing Clients Charged with Serious Crimes

If you are facing charges for damaging, taking, or trespassing on someone else’s property, Arizona law considers that a criminal offense—often punishable by jail time, probation, fines, and a lasting criminal record. Property crimes are not limited to theft. The law covers a wide range of conduct, from minor vandalism to serious felony burglary. And while some cases involve misunderstandings or accidents, prosecutors often treat these charges aggressively.

At the Law Office of James Novak, we help individuals in Phoenix and throughout Maricopa County who are facing allegations related to property damage, unlawful entry, or theft-related conduct. Working with a Phoenix property crimes lawyer early in your case can mean the difference between a conviction and a clean record.

What Counts as a Property Crime Under Arizona Law

Arizona law classifies an offense as a property crime when it involves interfering with someone else’s right to control, use, or possess their physical property. These charges may or may not include an element of theft. In many cases, the offense is based on unlawful entry, damage, or misuse—even if nothing is actually stolen.

Common types of property crimes in Arizona include:

• Burglary (first, second, or third degree)
• Criminal trespassing
• Criminal damage (also known as vandalism)
• Arson
• Theft of services
• Shoplifting or retail theft
• Unlawful entry into a vehicle
• Possession of burglary tools

Each of these charges comes with its own legal definitions and penalties. But what they all share is the risk of a permanent criminal record, especially if the charge is filed as a felony. A Phoenix property crimes lawyer can help you understand which category your case falls into and how best to respond.

Felony vs. Misdemeanor Property Offenses

The severity of your charge will depend on several factors, including the value of any property involved, the nature of the alleged conduct, and your criminal history. Some offenses, like criminal trespass in the third degree, may be charged as misdemeanors. Others, such as first-degree burglary, can be Class 2 felonies punishable by years in prison.

Arizona sentencing laws take property value seriously. For example:

• Damage under $250 may result in a Class 2 misdemeanor
• Damage between $1,000 and $2,000 could be a Class 6 felony
• Any burglary of a residential structure is automatically a felony
• Arson charges are almost always felony-level, especially when buildings or occupied structures are involved

In addition to potential jail time or prison, a conviction for property crimes may lead to fines, restitution, community service, loss of firearm rights, and mandatory probation supervision. A felony conviction may also interfere with your employment, housing, and ability to hold certain professional licenses. To minimize those risks, it is essential to involve a Phoenix property crimes lawyer as early as possible.

How Property Crime Allegations Typically Arise

Many property crime charges begin with a 911 call from a business owner, homeowner, or security officer. These accusations may be based on incomplete information, false assumptions, or even surveillance footage that does not tell the full story. You could be accused of:

• Being on private property without permission
• Damaging or moving someone’s belongings during a dispute
• Entering a building or vehicle during an emergency
• Participating in a group that engaged in damage or theft
• Being near property that was later reported stolen

Law enforcement may arrest you based on circumstantial evidence. Without context or a defense strategy, these situations often move forward as formal charges. That is why it is critical to work with an attorney who can challenge assumptions, raise legal defenses, and bring out the facts that favor you.

Defenses in Property Crime Cases

Just because you have been accused does not mean you are guilty. The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Depending on the charge, possible defenses include:

• Lack of intent to damage, steal, or trespass
• Mistaken identity
• Permission or consent from the property owner
• No knowledge that you were on private property
• Value of the alleged damage or theft was overestimated
• You were retrieving your own property or helping someone in need

Your attorney can also examine whether your rights were violated during the investigation or arrest. If evidence was obtained through illegal search or seizure, it may be excluded from court. A Phoenix property crimes lawyer will identify every legal strategy available and use it to help reduce or dismiss your charges.

Why You Should Take These Charges Seriously

Arizona courts treat property offenses as more than just financial issues. Judges often view these charges as signs of disregard for safety, privacy, or community standards. Even if no one was harmed, a conviction may follow you for years. Landlords, employers, and licensing boards regularly deny opportunities based on these types of records.

If this is your first arrest, you may qualify for a diversion program or deferred prosecution. But you must act quickly to take advantage of those options. The sooner you involve an attorney, the more options you will have.

Call the Law Office of James Novak for a Strong Defense

If you are facing a property-related offense in Phoenix or anywhere in Maricopa County, the Law Office of James Novak is here to help. With years of experience handling everything from misdemeanor trespassing to serious felony burglary, our firm is committed to defending your rights and working toward the best possible outcome.

Call (480) 413-1499 today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Phoenix property crimes lawyer. We will listen to your story, explain your legal options, and build a defense focused on your future.