There are numerous types of theft charges, but they can all result in serious legal penalties. For this reason, if you are charged with any type of theft, you should immediately contact a Northville theft lawyer to defend your rights in court. You may need an attorney if you have been charged with any of the following types of theft:
If convicted, individuals can face years behind bars and a permanent criminal record that prevents them from finding jobs and housing. In general, individuals with more extensive criminal records will face harsher sentences from a judge.
If you or someone you care about has been charged with any type of theft, contact a qualified defense attorney to learn more about theft charges in the state of Michigan.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Theft ChargesThe type of theft charges an accused individual will face in Michigan depends on the value of the allegedly stolen item(s) or service(s). More than likely, an individual will face misdemeanor charges (petty theft) if they are accused of stealing an item that is valued below $200. If the item or service is valued between $200 and $1,000, the individual can be charged with second-degree theft, which is still a misdemeanor. Even though these charges may not seem serious, those convicted can face up to one year in jail and have to pay a fine of $2,000.
Individuals charged with taking more expensive items may face felony theft charges, which are divided into two categories. If an individual is accused of taking items valued between $1,000 and $20,000, they can face a fine of up to $10,000 and a prison term of up to five years. Individuals will automatically be charged with felony theft if they are accused of having taken a motor vehicle or any related motor vehicle parts, even if they are valued at less than $1,000.
Second-degree felony theft involves taking items or services with a value of $20,000 or more, and those convicted can be imprisoned for up to 10 years.
ShopliftingShoplifting is one of the most common types of theft, and if a person has been accused, they will need the aid of a Northville theft lawyer. As with other theft charges, the punishment faced by an accused individual will vary depending on the price of the item in question.
Contrary to popular belief, a person can be charged with shoplifting even if they intend to pay for an item, but accidentally leave the store.
Shoplifting charges can also be leveled at individuals who alter price tags or are accused of taking property near a store. If an individual is charged with taking an item when the store is closed, they can be charged with “retail fraud” instead of shoplifting.
Other Types of TheftOther, more serious types of theft charges, such as robbery or carjacking, will automatically be considered felonies in Michigan. If a person is charged with one of these crimes, the prosecution will do everything in their power to ensure that the accused person receives the most severe punishment possible.
When a person is charged with the most extreme forms of theft, they will certainly need to hire a Northville theft lawyer.
Consulting With a Northville Theft AttorneyIf you have been charged with theft, a Northville theft lawyer may be able to help you. Skilled attorneys make it their goal to get charges reduced or dismissed, and they promise to work diligently on your case. Call today to discuss your case with an attorney.