Atlanta Theft Lawyer

Theft crimes are taken very seriously in the state of Georgia. When someone unlawfully takes property or services from another party, the state will try to hold them accountable for their actions. There are several different acts that can be considered theft in Georgia. The legal team at Williamson Legal can effectively represent your interests and help you avoid significant consequences that can impact your future. If you have been charged with a theft crime in the state of Georgia, you can count on a dedicated Atlanta theft lawyer at Williamson Legal to fight your charges. Contact our office today to learn how we can help you.

Types of Theft in Georgia

The state of Georgia has a number of different categories of theft. These include the following:

• Theft by taking: the act of unlawfully seizing another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it
• Theft by shoplifting: removing merchandise from a store or altering price tags with the intent to avoid paying full price
• Theft by deception: using false statements or misleading conduct to obtain property for personal benefit
• Theft by conversion: lawfully obtaining another’s property (such as through an agreement) and then converting it for unauthorized use
• Theft of services: intentionally acquiring services, like lodging, labor, or utilities, without intending to pay for them
• Theft of lost or mislaid property: knowingly taking possession of lost property and keeping it without making a reasonable effort to return it to the owner
• Theft by receiving stolen property: receiving property that one knows is stolen without the intent of returning it

Consequences of a Theft Conviction

If you have been charged with a theft crime in the state of Georgia, it is important that you retain the services of an experienced attorney. Your Atlanta criminal lawyer can help defend you from the serious consequences that are associated with theft crimes. For the most part, the theft of property worth $500 or less is considered a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor theft crime can result in up to a year of imprisonment and a fine of up to $1,000. Certain theft charges are considered felonies and can result in a much more significant sentence, such as years in jail. Some of the felony theft charges include the following:

If you have been charged with a theft crime in the state of Georgia, it is important that you retain the services of an experienced attorney. Your Atlanta theft lawyer can help defend you from the serious consequences that are associated with theft crimes.

Under Georgia law, theft involving property valued at $1,500 or less is typically classified as a misdemeanor. A misdemeanor conviction can lead to up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $1,000. In certain cases, prosecutors may use their discretion to reduce or elevate charges based on the context of the offense.

However, theft of property exceeding $1,500 is generally considered a felony, with potential prison time increasing depending on the value:

• Property valued between $1,500.01 and $5,000 may result in 1 to 5 years imprisonment
• Property valued between $5,000.01 and $25,000 may lead to 1 to 10 years imprisonment
• Property exceeding $25,000 may result in 2 to 20 years imprisonment

Certain types of theft carry unique felony classifications regardless of value. These include:

• Theft involving a fiduciary breach
• Theft of a gravesite or burial object
• Theft of a firearm or explosive
• Repeat theft offenses, where a third or subsequent conviction can be treated as a felony
• Theft committed while operating as a telemarketer

Contact a Theft Lawyer in Cobb County, GA Today

If you have been charged with theft in the state of Georgia, there is a lot that you need to take into consideration. If this is your first criminal offense, there is a chance that your attorney can work to keep the offense off your criminal record. If this is not your first offense, you may be able to work with your attorney and the court to avoid long-term consequences. Of course, it is essential that you speak with an experienced theft lawyer who can effectively defend you. With so much of your future at stake, experience, skill, and knowledge of the criminal justice system matter. The legal team at Williamson Legal can explore all possible legal defenses on your behalf. Contact our office today to learn how we can help.