At Former District Attorneys, we know how unsettling it can be to be charged with a theft-related crime. Especially when the repercussions are uncertain. But while you may think all charges of stealing carry equal weight, in the eyes of law enforcement and the courts, it’s not that simple. Below are definitions of three common theft-related charges and their associated penalties.

How the Law Defines These Terminologies

Theft

Taking something physically tangible that doesn’t belong to you without the owner’s permission and with no intention of returning it is theft. Theft can include anything from shoplifting a candy bar from a convenience store to lifting someone’s wallet from their back pocket or even stealing a car. Depending on the seriousness of the charges and the guilty person’s record, penalties can include fines, probation, and even possibly jail time.

Burglary

Did you know a burglary charge doesn’t even have to involve stealing possessions? Burglary involves illegally entering a home, business, or other structure that houses people, animals, or possessions to commit theft, violence, or arson. And if you think an accused has to smash a window or break down a door to gain entry, you’d be wrong. Even if access is obtained through an unlocked door, if their intentions include any of the above, they can be charged with burglary. There are multiple degrees of burglary from misdemeanor charges to felonies, but every one of them can result in a prison sentence.

Robbery

Robbery is a serious step up from common theft and involves the use of force, coercion, or intimidation in a theft or attempted theft. A would-be thief who passes a note to a bank teller with words falsely claiming to have a weapon and directing them to hand over cash could be found just as guilty of robbery as another who bursts into a liquor store with a loaded rifle demanding the cashier empty out their cash register. A conviction for robbery could involve years of prison time, especially if the act involves the use of a dangerous weapon.

Things to do if you’re involved in any type of theft

Upsetting as it may be to be charged with a crime of this nature, you need first and foremost to keep your cool. It may be natural to want to contact your accuser and try to settle the matter or smooth things over, but doing so could very well make your situation worse. Instead, keep quiet, gather any evidence that could prove your innocence or call into question your guilt, and then call a good criminal defense attorney.

The importance of a good attorney

Know your rights! Being charged with a theft-related crime is no laughing matter, and you need a top-quality attorney to spell out your rights for you and help you navigate the system. As former district attorneys who used to work on the prosecution side of the equation, we know how hard-hitting prosecutors operate. And we know how to hit back even harder with a rigorous defense. If you’ve been charged with a theft-related crime, you need a legal team in your corner with a strong track record of success.

Disclaimer: The content in this article is provided for general knowledge. It does not constitute legal advice, and readers should seek advice from qualified legal professionals regarding particular cases or situations.

Published by: Nelly Chavez