Maryville Theft Crimes Attorneys
Representing Clients In East Tennessee Facing Charges Of Larceny, Burglary, Or Robbery
It’s common knowledge that theft crimes come with stiff penalties in terms of fines and jail time. However, what many people fail to realize is that a conviction can make it difficult to find work, rent an apartment, and even attend school. Your overall reputation could take a major hit as friends and family members shy away from you because of your criminal history. This is why it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced Maryville theft crime attorney when facing these charges.
At Shepherd & Long, we understand the severity of a theft charge and subsequent conviction and the impact it has on the rest of your life. Our lawyers represent clients in Maryville and throughout East Tennessee and we take risks if we know those risks will benefit your case. Our criminal defense team will fight the theft allegations in order to protect your freedom and reputation.
Common Theft Charges In Tennessee
Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you could face charges levied by the state of Tennessee or the federal government. The majority of theft charges fall into one of three categories:
- Larceny: The taking of someone else’s property without their consent
- Burglary: The unlawful entering of a building
- Robbery: Committing larceny with the use of force
Each of these categories also has subcategories of theft crimes. These can include aggravated robbery, shoplifting, identity theft, stealing from your employer, shoplifting, carjacking, and grand theft auto. On top of these crimes, there are white collar crimes, which include fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and insider trading.
Penalties For Theft Convictions
A person has committed theft under Tennessee law when he or she has an intent to deprive the owner of property and then knowingly uses control over the property without the owner’s consent. You can be charged with a misdemeanor or a felony and it all depends on the value of the items taken in the theft.
- Class A misdemeanor for items stolen worth $500 or less
- Class E felony for items stolen worth $500-$1,000
- Class D felony for items stolen worth $1,000-$10,000
- Class C felony for items stolen worth $10,000-$60,000
- Class B felony for items stolen worth $60,000 or more
Tennessee law also acknowledges a difference between the theft of tangible property and the theft of services. Theft of services occurs when you steal internet service via fraud or deception. If the theft of services was valued at $500 or less, you face a Class A misdemeanor charge in Tennessee. If you or a loved one has been charged with theft, it is in your best interest to speak to a criminal defense attorney immediately.
Can Theft Be A Violent Crime?
Theft can be categorized as a violent crime when property is taken from its owner without consent through the use of force or violence. This type of theft is called robbery. You can also be arrested and charged with robbery if you use the threat of violence or force to take property from someone else even if you never became violent. For example, if you point a gun at someone and demand their wallet, but never pull the trigger, you can still be charged with robbery. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your case, you can face Class C, Class B or Class A felony charges if arrested for robbery in East Tennessee.
Building A Defense To Theft Charges
As with any type of crime, it is important that you have a criminal defense attorney present when you are being questioned by the police. Never answer any questions without legal guidance from your attorney so you do not incriminate yourself.
From the minute you are arrested through the investigation and the rest of the criminal justice process, a Maryville theft crimes attorney can advocate on your behalf. Our team will work for reduced charges, case dismissal, a plea bargain, or acquittal.
When you work with a criminal defense attorney from Shepherd & Long P.C., we will begin the process of building a defense that paints you in the best light to the court. We will collect evidence, interview witnesses, review the police report, and build the proper defense to the charges levied against you.
Our criminal defense team will analyze all aspects of your case to determine the proper course of action, including the following:
- Making motions to suppress evidence
- Arguing for case dismissal
- Arguing for reduced charges
- Conducting plea bargaining on your behalf
Facing Theft Crime Charges? Contact A Maryville Criminal Defense Attorney Today.
You should never take your freedom for granted when dealing with a theft crime charge in East Tennessee. Now is not the time to try your hand at the law, which is why you should speak to an experienced and skilled Maryville criminal defense attorney as soon as you are arrested. The team at Shepherd & Long has been defending clients who have been charged with theft for decades. Call our office at 865-383-3118 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.