Paulding County Theft Crime Lawyer

Strategic Defense in Cobb, Douglas & Bartow Counties

When you have been charged with a theft crime in Paulding County, it is in your best interests to retain legal representation as early as possible, to learn about your rights in the situation and to begin working on a criminal defense strategy for protecting your freedom.

Depending on the specific offense, you could be facing time in jail or prison, fines, a lengthy period of probation and a criminal record which could follow you for years. Theft is considered a crime of dishonesty, and having a conviction of this type on your record can make it difficult to find housing or employment.

Contact our firm at (770) 212-3313 to retain the services of a Paulding County theft crime defense lawyer from Henrickson & Sereebutra for aggressive representation.

Common Types of Theft Crimes

Burglary Penalties

Burglary is a felony criminal offense in which someone enters a building or structure without permission with the intent to commit theft or another crime.

This action is punishable by up to five or twenty years, depending on whether or not the building is a dwelling.

Robbery Penalties

Robbery is taking property from another person by force, threat of force, or intimidation. It is similarly a felony, with a penalty of up to twenty years in prison or up to life or even the death sentence for armed robbery.

Embezzlement Penalties

Embezzlement is misappropriating property or funds entrusted to one’s care, often by someone in a position of trust.

In Georgia, embezzlement penalties depend on the value of the embezzled property:

• Misdemeanor Embezzlement (property value $1,500 or less): Up to 1 year in jail, a fine up to $1,000, probation, and restitution.
• Felony Embezzlement (property value over $1,500): Penalties range from 1 to 5 years in prison for $1,500 to $5,000, 1 to 10 years for $5,000 to $25,000, 1 to 15 years for $25,000 to $100,000, and 1 to 20 years for amounts over $100,000.

Penalties for Other Theft Crimes

Less serious theft offenses such as shoplifting are either misdemeanors or felonies, depending on factors including the value of stolen goods.

For example under Georgia Code §16-8-12 (2012), for property stolen that is valued at between $1,500.01 and $5,000, the penalty ranges from one to five years in prison, while theft of property worth more than $24,999.99 you can be sent to prison for up to twenty years. Theft by shoplifting, §16-8-14, can also be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Several factors can significantly impact the penalties for theft crimes: 

• Value of Property: Higher-value items usually result in more severe penalties.
• Prior Criminal Record: Repeat offenders may face harsher sentences.
• Use of Force: Offenses involving force or threats, like robbery, often carry more severe penalties than simple theft.

Common Defenses Against Theft Charges

When defending against theft charges, several common legal defenses can be employed depending on the specifics of the case.

Here are some of the most frequently used defenses:

• Lack of Intent: Arguing that there was no intention to deprive the owner of their property permanently.
• Mistaken Identity: Claiming that you were wrongly identified as the perpetrator.
• Consent: Proving that you had permission to take the property.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the adequacy of the prosecution's evidence.
• False Accusation: Demonstrating that the charges are motivated by personal animosity or other ulterior motives.
• Duress or Coercion: Showing that you were forced to commit the theft under threat or pressure.

What to Do if You're Accused of Theft

If you are accused of theft, we recommend you to follow this advice:

• Remain Silent: Avoid making any statements to law enforcement or others without legal counsel present.
• Contact an Attorney: Seek the help of our experienced theft crime defense attorneys to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
• Gather Evidence: Collect any evidence that might support your defense, such as alibis or witness statements.
• Understand the Charges: Learn about the specific charges against you, including potential penalties and the legal process involved.

Theft Crime Statistics in Georgia

According to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation's Statewide Report Profile of Reported Index Crimes 1980 - 2011, there were 349,743 reported theft crimes across the state in 2011 alone, 17,461 of which occurred in Cobb County. Theft is the most common type of criminal offense in our state, and law enforcement agencies at all levels are doing everything they can to crack down on offenders.

Why Choose Henrickson & Sereebutra for Your Theft Crime Defense?

Since 2005, our firm has offered aggressive, professional legal representation in matters relating to criminal defense. See how we have helped others in your situation!

If you are facing theft crimes, our Paulding County attorneys can help you review the evidence and charges to develop a strong defense strategy, negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or penalties, and advocate on your behalf during hearings and trial.

We have more than 75 years of combined experience, so we make sure that your legal rights are upheld throughout the legal process.

Don't let yourself be convicted, but contact a Paulding County theft crimes attorney from Henrickson & Sereebutra now for a free confidential consultation and to begin working on your case.