Criminal Defense Lawyers

Theft Crime: Impact of Criminal History

Theft is the act of depriving another person of their property. The best thing that you can do if you are facing theft charges is to hire an attorney. You can also be charged with theft if you attempt to deprive someone of their property. Your attorney can help you gather the evidence that you need to either get the charges dismissed or punishment reduced.

Types of Theft

The type of theft that you are charged with will depend on the type of property that was stolen and the value of the property. You can be charged with either petty theft or grand theft.

Petty Theft

You can be charged with petty if the property that you stole was under a certain amount. In most cases, the value of the property is less than $1,000. Petty thefts are typically classified as misdemeanors.

Grand Theft

If you steal something that is over $1,000, then you may be charged with grand theft. Grand larceny is the most serious offense that you can be charged with. This is a felony in every state. The value of the property must be above a specified amount. They also have to be able to prove that you intended to permanently deprive a person of the property.

Consequences of Theft

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

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Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Petty Theft Charges

Petty theft charges are typically misdemeanors. Most people who are charged with a misdemeanor spend less than six months in jail. The maximum punishment will be less than one year.

Grand Theft

Grand theft can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony. It will depend on the circumstances that surrounded the theft. There are several things that the prosecutors have to consider. This includes the criminal history, the way that the theft occurred and other charges.

While a person will typically spend less than one year in jail for a misdemeanor, people can spend over a year in state prison for a felony.

Grand Felony Theft

The threshold value of the property must be met or exceeded in order to be charged with grand felony theft. Prison time, restitutions and fines are some of the possible punishments that you can face.

Factors That Affect the Penalties

Types of Property

If you steal a firearm or vehicle, then you will automatically be charged with a felony. You may also be charged with a felony if you steal a search and rescue dog.

The Manner of the Theft

The way that you obtained the item that you stole will also determine the type of crime that you are charged with. For example, if someone points a gun at someone to rob them, then they can be charged with a felony. A person can also be charged with a felony if they rip a purse from a woman.

Previous History

A person who is caught stealing once will get a lighter sentence than a person who is a repeat offender. If a person has a criminal history, then they can face a harsher punishment even if they had not stolen in the past.

Long-term Consequences

It is important to note that restitution, fines and jail time are not the only consequences associated with stealing. This could be a part of your permanent record. When employers see your record, they may deny you even if you are qualified. There is also a social stigma associated with stealing. People may label you as a thief even if you stole something several years ago.

Additionally, if you are not a citizen or permanent resident of the United States, then you can be deported. You may not be allowed to come back to the country.

Why You Need a criminal Defense Attorney

The thought of having to pay a hefty fine or spend time in jail can be scary. The penalties can affect your professional and personal life. However, if you have a qualified attorney on your side, then you may be able to get your charges dropped. If you do end up getting punished, then the punishment will likely be a lot lighter.

Time is of the essence when you are facing criminal charges. Your criminal defense attorney can start working on your case as soon as you contact them.