When an individual is charged with theft crimes like larceny or shoplifting, it can affect their lives in many different ways. Not only does a conviction result in a criminal record that can follow them for the rest of their life, but it can also detract from their creditability and hinder job opportunities. This is why it is so important that they get the best defense to help them fight these charges. At The Locke Law Group we understand how a stupid mistake can have lasting effects and our attorneys will do everything in their power to ensure that you do not have any negative consequences from a theft charge.
What Defense Strategies Can Be Used in Theft Crime Cases?
Defending yourself against theft charges requires that you have a good understanding of the law and the different tactics your attorney can use to try and win your case. The right defense can save you from a prison sentence and have a positive impact on your life, especially in the future when looking for a new job or applying for loans.
The most common type of theft charge is property burglary or robbery, which involves the act of taking someone else’s possession without their consent. Some other types of theft charges include petty theft, grand theft, and auto theft. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, your lawyer may be able to successfully defend you against any of these charges.
One of the most important elements that your lawyer must prove in your case is that you did not have the intent to steal when the incident occurred. If you can successfully argue that you did not have the intent to take someone else’s property, you will be acquitted of the charge.
This can be a difficult argument to make, and it will depend on the circumstances surrounding your incident. For example, if you were under duress and stole the property, this is a valid defense. However, if you were drugged or otherwise intoxicated when the theft occurred, this is not a valid defense to the offense.
Another way to defend against theft charges is by arguing that you had permission to take the property in question. This is a common defense strategy for those who are charged with petty theft. For example, if you accidentally took something from a store while shopping and then forgot to return it, this could be a valid defense.
In other instances, a top-tier criminal attorney could argue that you were not guilty of the theft because it was a misunderstanding or an honest misinterpretation of facts. This is a valid defense to theft cases and it could have you found not guilty if it can be proved that you believed the property belonged to you at the time of the incident.
Lastly, your attorney can also defend you against the charge by arguing that you were entrapped. This is a valid defense to theft charges and it will require that you can show that you were entrapped by an undercover police officer. For example, if an undercover police officer asked you to steal certain items and you agreed, this would be considered entrapment.
