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Defense
Anyone charged with theft in New York needs a proper defense when they appear in court. Without a defense to the crime, expect a conviction and the worst possible outcome, especially if it isn’t your first theft charge or if you have a lengthy criminal record. Theft charges can be charged as misdemeanors or felony charges, depending on the value of the items taken. Consequences of a theft conviction can range from time in jail to years in prison, fines, and a tarnished name. Once you’re charged with theft, get on the phone with a criminal defense lawyer. Retain a lawyer and get the best defense when it’s time to appear in court.
The Consequences of a Theft Conviction
Theft convictions are permanently displayed on your criminal record for the remainder of your life. Anyone with an interest can access the information where they’ll quickly form an impression of you with the little information available to them. Oftentimes, employers run background checks on individuals before hiring them. A theft conviction considerably reduces the odds you’ll be selected for the job. People with theft convictions may also find it difficult to rent a home or go to college and earn a professional license.
Lawyers understand what it takes to defend a person against theft charges in a court of law. They are familiar with all of the laws, the New York Penal Code, and defense strategies possible in a theft case. They listen to the facts of the case and determine a defense strategy that works in the matter. Even when you think that a defense strategy doesn’t apply to your case, lawyers coming to surprise you and find a way to work it into your case. Lawyers help their clients get the best outcome in a theft case.
Some of the most common defenses to a theft charge include:
– You Didn’t Mean to Take the Property: As silly as this may sound initially, it’s quite common for a person to accidentally take items. Whether the item was accidentally put inside of a pocket or other circumstances create a situation where you didn’t mean to take the property, the lawyer can help.
– Its Your Property: In many situations, it’s unclear who actually owns the property. It is the prosecution’s job to prove that theft occurred. When proof of ownership is unattainable, the prosecution may not have a case. A lawyer can examine the case facts to determine if his strategy applies to your case.
– Entrapment: Entrapment occurs when a person commits a crime under the direct order of another person who has essentially threatened them in some way.
– Under the Influence: Admitting that you were under the influence at the time a theft takes place is sometimes a risky move, but lawyers make sure the defense works in your case. If you’re under the influence, you may have thought the items were your own. It’s also difficult to prove intent when a person is under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
– Borrowed Property: Sometimes we borrow things and forget to return the items to their rightful owner. Anger sometimes leads to criminal charges in such an instance. If you can prove that you intended to return the item, you may have found your defense.
Lawyers listen to all of the facts of your case. They examine evidence and talk to witnesses. Once they’ve compiled all of this information, they determine the best defense strategy in your case. The possible defenses above are among the many strategies that a criminal defense lawyer can use to lessen the likelihood of a conviction
Contact a Skilled Criminal Defense Attorney
Although many defenses to theft are possible for someone facing this criminal charge, it takes a skilled attorney to put together the best case. Lawyers offer free consultations to individuals facing theft charges who also want the best outcome in their case. Schedule a consultation to learn more about the benefits a lawyer brings to your case and defense strategy. Far too much is on the line in your life to answer a theft charge without the help of a great defense strategy and attorney. Do not go to court without a legal expert by your side.
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