Portland Criminal Defense Lawyers

Frequently Asked Questions: Portland Theft Crimes

What penalties will I face for a theft crime conviction? A theft crime conviction can result in any of a number of penalties, ranging from probation or a fine all the way to years in state prison. The penalties you may face for a Portland theft crime will depend upon the value of property involved, whether violence or a deadly weapon was used, whether anyone was injured and the specific circumstances of the offense. A Portland theft defense attorney can evaluate your particular case in order to determine what penalties you may face.

What is the difference between petty theft and grand theft? The value of property taken will determine whether an individual faces petty theft or grand theft charges. Generally speaking, theft of property valued under $200 will result in misdemeanor charges and theft of property valued at or above $200 will result in more serious felony theft crime charges. Misdemeanor theft may result in a maximum jail sentence of 12 months and felony theft may result in up to 5 years or more in state prison, depending upon the circumstances of the crime.

What is theft by deception? Theft by deception typically involves fraud crimes. In the case of theft by deception, an offender deceives the victim into surrendering property. Some examples of theft by deception may include bank fraud, credit card fraud, mail fraud and identity theft.

What are some examples of violent theft crimes? Armed robbery, robbery and carjacking are considered violent theft crimes. In these situations, the offender will use force, threats or violence in order to take another’s property.

I was wrongly accused. What can I do to make sure I don’t go to jail? Being wrongly accused of a crime is devastating. You know that you did not commit the offense you have been accused of, but no one seems to believe you. You need to consult a Portland theft crimes defense lawyer as soon as possible in order to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the criminal process. Your lawyer will need to act quickly in conducting an investigation to uncover evidence or information that proves your innocence.

What are some common theft crimes? Some common theft crimes include: shoplifting, auto theft, burglary, embezzlement, robbery and carjacking.

If you are facing theft crime allegations, contact a Portland theft defense lawyer at our firm as soon as possible!