Philadelphia Theft Crime Lawyer

Theft Offense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Providing Legal Representation for Theft Charges in Philadelphia County, Montgomery County, Chester County, Delaware County, and Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

Theft charges carry a lot more consequences than you may expect, even for minor violations. Being convicted of theft can have long-lasting consequences on your record, employment opportunities, education, and freedom. One of the biggest mistakes you can make in this situation is assuming you do not need legal representation to defend you. Instead of taking chances with your future, turn to the guidance of a skilled Philadelphia theft crime lawyer for the support you need through every step of your case.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim, we have a team of more than a dozen experienced Philadelphia theft crime lawyers with decades of combined experience in criminal law. We have helped clients overcome all types of theft charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felony theft charges. Our comprehensive and creative criminal defense strategies have earned us a strong reputation among local court systems as well as a reason for prosecutors to take us seriously. Our trial-tested approach, backed by compassionate support for our clients, can be the advantage you need in your criminal defense case. If you are facing criminal charges, let a theft offense attorney in Philadelphia, PA, develop a plan to pursue the most favorable outcome possible.

Developing a Defense Plan for Your Unique Theft Charges

Theft charges in Pennsylvania cover a broad range of activities that involve the unlawful taking or control of another person's property. We understand that every criminal case is unique, which is why we develop our defense strategies based on the unique needs of our clients. As your Philadelphia theft crime lawyers, we are prepared to protect you from charges such as:

• Shoplifting from Philadelphia retailers
• Theft by unlawfully taking someone else's possessions
• Theft through deception or other forms of fraud
• Theft by not paying for someone else's services
• Identity theft
• Credit card fraud
• Acquisition of stolen property
• Burglary
• Robbery charges that involve using threats or force
• Embezzlement and other forms of white-collar theft

For any kind of theft charge, the prosecution must prove that you met the threshold of these crimes. Our role as your Philadelphia theft crime lawyer is to challenge the claims the prosecution makes, scrutinize any evidence they present against you, and defend your legal rights throughout the entire process.

The Penalties of a Theft Conviction

The penalties for your charges can vary dramatically, depending on how the theft occurred, the value of what was stolen, and other critical factors. Based on the value of the goods in question, Pennsylvania law will categorize your charges as:

• A third-degree misdemeanor when the value of the stolen property is less than $50
• A second-degree misdemeanor when the value of stolen assets is between $50 and $199
• A first-degree misdemeanor when the value of stolen property ranges from $200 to $2,000
• A felony when the theft involves property worth over $2,000 in value or certain items, like vehicles and firearms

Depending on the classification of a theft offense you are facing, penalties for your charges can include:

• Time in jail or prison
• Heavy fines
• Probation or parole
• Required compensation to the victim
• A loss of any relevant professional license

There are also collateral consequences that come with a conviction. For example, your reputation among friends and family will be permanently tarnished, you may have trouble gaining future employment, and you may have difficulty gaining housing.

Preparing Your Defense With a Philadelphia Theft Crime Lawyer

Even if you think there is no way to defend yourself from these charges, you may be surprised at the options that are available to you. Our legal team will review all of the information surrounding your charges to explore the possibility of executing defense strategies such as:

• Challenging the validity or accuracy of any evidence
• Proving you had no intention to deprive anyone of their property
• Dismissing evidence that was illegally collected through improper police procedures
• Establishing that you were the lawful owner of the items in question
• Proving that you were wrongly identified by any witnesses

Proving these or any other defense arguments in theft cases can be easier said than done. As your legal representation, we will take it upon ourselves to do all of the necessary legal work to produce the strongest case we can on your behalf. We will thoroughly review any evidence the prosecution has against you, consult with any key witnesses to find holes in their stories, meet with expert witnesses who can verify technical information relevant to your case, and do anything in our power to beat your charges.

How to Protect Yourself After Theft Charges With a Theft Offense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA

If you believe you are about to be charged with theft, or you have already been notified of charges against you, follow these steps to defend your best interests:

• Do not talk to the police or any investigators about the charges without having an attorney present.
• Do not discuss your case with anyone other than your legal representation.
• Keep track of any evidence that may help you, including receipts or surveillance footage.

Finally, be sure to reach out to a theft offense attorney in Philadelphia, PA, for further guidance. We can act fast to keep you from making critical mistakes and develop a plan to minimize the consequences of your charges.

How Our Team of Philadelphia Theft Crime Lawyers Can Help You

When you choose van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim as your Philadelphia theft crime lawyer, you’re choosing a legal team that has a reputation for fearless criminal defense services with unmatched client support. We have extensive experience in misdemeanor and felony defenses at both the state and federal levels, providing a considerable advantage for you.

As your legal representation, we will take a holistic approach to representing your best interests. In addition to listening to all of the details surrounding your charges, we will keep you informed about everything we are doing for you, what options you have in your defense, and how we anticipate things to resolve.

Our commitment to helping the Philadelphia community in any way we can is evident in our availability seven days a week and our reputation as a dedicated criminal defense team. No matter how unbeatable or complicated your charges seem to be, we are prepared to fight for you through every step of your defense.

Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation With a Theft Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA, Today

Time is one of the most valuable resources you have while crafting your defense strategy. The more time you give your attorney, the better position we are in to build a strong case for you. Give our attorneys the time they need to craft a defense you can count on by calling us today at 215-486-0123 or reaching out online. Our Philadelphia theft crime lawyers are standing by to protect your rights and future.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crime Defense in Philadelphia, PA