Theft Crimes

Any person arrested in Tempe AZ for theft should understand that they are innocent until proven guilty. They have certain inherent rights under the constitution. This includes the right to remain silent if questioned by police after an arrest and the right to retain a criminal defense attorney to defend their charges. Without qualified legal representation a person may be subject to a swift and harsh conviction.

A wide variety of offenses as well as different types of offenses considered to be theft crimes in Arizona. Criminal charges may be classified as misdemeanors or felonies. Certain factors surrounding a theft determine if a misdemeanor theft offense will be raised to a felony. These include such circumstances such as nature of the incident, and value of the items allegedly stolen.

Under Arizona law A.R.S. 13-1802 there are different acts that constitute theft. For example: The acts of unlawful use, or taking control of another person’s property, with the intent to deprive them of their property or services; A.R.S. 13-1803 describes auto theft; A.R.S. 13 - 1804 describes extortion; A.R.S 13-1805 describes shoplifting; A.R.S. 13-1811 describes check fraud. These are just few types of numerous types of theft crimes, all of which can be potentially serious.

If convicted, a person may face jail terms for misdemeanor charges; or prison terms for felonies; fees, fines, court and incarceration costs; restitution; probation; community service; a criminal record; counseling; and other court ordered penalties.

In order to prosecute a person for theft, they must knowingly commit the theft offense. To be convicted in Arizona the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt a person knowingly intended to commit the theft as defined under Arizona criminal code. For this reason it is critical to consult or retain a criminal defense attorney to defend your charges.

In some cases of petty or less serious theft charges, a suspect may be eligible for a diversion program which will help them avoid incarceration, and a criminal record, if completed successfully. Not all crimes or persons are eligible for the diversion program. Your attorney can advise you of the terms of eligibility and help you qualify for the program in that event.

If you are facing theft crimes charges in Maricopa County you can consult theft crimes defense attorney James Novak for a free consultation at (480) 413-1499.

Theft Crimes Defense Law Firm in Tempe AZ

If you have been charged or arrested for any theft offense in Maricopa County, your future and freedom are at stake. James Novak, Attorney at the Law Office of James E. Novak will speak with you personally and provide you options for defense and legal representation. There may be defenses that you are not aware of, that may apply to your charges that can lead to a favorable resolution in your case. If retained, the Law Office of James Novak will protect your rights and defend your charges. The Law Office of James Novak provides a free consultation and legal representation for defense of theft charges and most criminal offenses for charges in Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, Chandler, Gilbert, AZ, and surrounding cities. Call James Novak, at the Law Office of James E. Novak at (480) 413-1499 for your free consultation today.

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