Newport News Theft Lawyer
Being charged with theft is a serious crime in Newport News. A conviction could result in a potential jail sentence. For a misdemeanor theft offense, thefts worth less than $500, you could potentially be sentenced to a year in prison if found guilty. For a felony theft charge, thefts worth at least $500, you could be sentenced to up to 20 years in prison if found convicted. Due to the gravity of the consequences of a theft charge, it is wise to consult with a skilled attorney. A Newport News theft lawyer can help you build a defense and fight tirelessly on your behalf.
Elements of a Crime
The elements of a theft crime include:
- The taking of money or the physical possession of an item
- The taking was completed without permission from the original owner
- They intended to permanently deprive the proper owner of that item
A person charged with this offense should schedule a consultation with a Newport News criminal lawyer as soon as conveniently possible.
Separate Charges Associated with Newport News
There are separate offenses a person could be charged with in addition to theft. For example, a person could be charged with shoplifting if they were accused of taking an item from a store without paying for the item or without permission from the store owner. A person could also be charged with burglary if they illegally entered a property with the intent to commit a crime. A Newport News theft lawyer could provide further insight on how to handle a theft offense while also facing other related charges.
Discussing Current Theft Charges
When calling a criminal attorney’s office to discuss current theft charges, a person should expect to be asked about the person’s exact charge and how many other charges they are facing. An attorney may also ask about what city or county the charges are in. This could potentially help with the development of a defensive strategy, as well with adjustments depending upon the jury and judge selection.
A Newport News theft lawyer may also want to know a person’s court date as well as the context of the crime. This information is crucial for an attorney to know since it will directly affect an attorney’s approach towards a defense. The sooner a person contacts an attorney following a theft charge, the more prepared and credible your defense could potentially be.
Role of an Attorney in a Theft Case
The first thing an attorney would want to do is determine what the best course of action would be. This is done by reviewing all the details of the crime, as well as collecting any evidence that may help towards building a strong defense. It is possible that an attorney may choose to argue the case, however, there are other options that do not include a trial. Such options may include settling for a plea agreement, which could result in community service or a lessened jail sentence.
Importance of Contacting a Newport News Attorney
If you have been charged with theft in Newport News, you should consider hiring a Newport News theft lawyer due to the potential consequences you could face if convicted. An attorney could help you with building a defense that most effectively suits your case. A lawyer with experience in dealing with theft crimes could also help gather evidence for you. By handling such crucial details of your case, an attorney could provide you with the appropriate legal representation you deserve.
