Theft of Services

Fight Back Against Theft Charges with the Help of Our Phoenix Criminal Defense Attorney

You may not think of an unpaid bill or a canceled contract as a criminal issue, but Arizona law takes theft of services seriously. If someone accuses you of receiving services without paying or using deception to avoid charges, you could be facing real criminal penalties. Even first-time offenders risk jail time, fines, and a permanent mark on their record.

At the Law Office of James Novak, we defend clients across Maricopa County accused of a wide range of theft crimes. If you have been charged with this offense, speaking with a Phoenix theft of services lawyer right away can help protect your rights and give you a better chance of moving forward without a conviction.

How Arizona Law Defines Theft of Services

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-1802, theft includes obtaining services through deception, threats, or without lawful authority. This means that if someone claims you received a service but failed to pay, or that you intentionally avoided the charge, prosecutors may charge you with theft.

Unlike theft of physical property, this charge involves intangible benefits such as:

• Utilities like electricity, gas, or internet
• Auto repairs or towing services
• Construction or home maintenance work
• Medical, dental, or professional services
• Hotel stays, restaurant bills, or ride services
• Streaming platforms or subscription-based tools

The key element in these cases is intent. Prosecutors must prove that you knowingly obtained the service without paying and had no intention of paying. Honest disputes over charges or service quality are not enough for a criminal conviction, but without the right legal defense, the line between a civil disagreement and a criminal case can quickly blur.

Examples of Situations That May Lead to Charges

A person may face a theft of services charge under several different scenarios. Common examples include:

• Leaving a restaurant without paying the bill
• Hiring a contractor and refusing to pay after the work is complete
• Tampering with a utility meter to avoid charges
• Accessing streaming or software services using a stolen or canceled account
• Calling for a rideshare or taxi and exiting without paying
• Receiving medical care and providing false insurance or identity details

In many cases, people are surprised to learn that what they thought was a billing issue or cancellation is being pursued as a criminal offense. Once a business owner or service provider makes a police report, the matter is in the hands of law enforcement. That is why you should speak to a Phoenix theft of services lawyer as soon as you become aware of the allegation.

Criminal Penalties for Theft of Services in Arizona

The severity of a theft of services charge depends on the value of the service provided. Arizona law classifies theft offenses by monetary thresholds:

• Less than $1,000: Class 1 misdemeanor
• $1,000 to $1,999: Class 6 felony
• $2,000 to $2,999: Class 5 felony
• $3,000 to $3,999: Class 4 felony
• $4,000 to $24,999: Class 3 felony
• $25,000 or more: Class 2 felony

A misdemeanor conviction may carry jail time, probation, fines, and restitution. Felony convictions are even more serious. They can result in prison, long-term probation, loss of civil rights, and restrictions on employment. The court may also require you to pay back the full amount of the alleged service and complete counseling or education programs.

A conviction can follow you for years and may interfere with job opportunities, housing, and your ability to obtain professional licenses. That is why hiring a Phoenix theft of services lawyer early in the process is one of the most important steps you can take.

Building a Strong Defense in a Theft of Services Case

Not every unpaid bill is a crime. In fact, Arizona law requires proof that you intended to avoid payment. If your attorney can show that you misunderstood the charges, believed you had already paid, or never received the service as promised, you may be able to avoid a conviction.

Additional defenses may include:

• Disputes over service quality or completion
• Billing errors by the provider
• A genuine belief that the service was free or included
• Lack of proof showing who received the service
• Mistaken identity or false accusations

In some cases, your attorney may be able to negotiate a civil resolution or diversion program that avoids criminal penalties altogether. Your strategy will depend on the facts of your case, your criminal history, and your willingness to resolve the matter through restitution or other agreements.

Take the Next Step with an Experienced Legal Advocate

Theft of services charges may seem minor compared to other offenses, but Arizona prosecutors treat them seriously. You cannot afford to ignore the charge or assume the court will understand your side without proper representation.

A Phoenix theft of services lawyer can help you respond quickly, explore all possible defenses, and fight to keep your record clean. At the Law Office of James Novak, we know how to challenge the prosecution’s case, raise doubt about intent, and seek outcomes that protect your future.

Call the Law Office of James Novak Today

If you are facing a theft of services charge or have received notice of a criminal complaint, do not wait. Call (480) 413-1499 today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Phoenix theft of services lawyer. We represent clients throughout Phoenix, Tempe, Mesa, Scottsdale, Chandler, and surrounding communities. Let us help you protect your name, your freedom, and your future.