Many people downplay the seriousness of theft crime charges, but no matter the reasoning, even misdemeanor theft can land you in jail. More serious charges are felonies, and you could end up in prison for years. If you or anyone you know has been charged with theft, it is crucial to speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney from Kohlmeyer Hagen, Law Office Chtd.
You have one opportunity to exonerate yourself or convince the court that the theft charges against you are exaggerated or unfair. Our Mankato theft lawyers have more than five decades of combined experience doing just that. You are entitled to a competent defense. Let us provide it.
Theft occurs when someone borrows a friend’s car without asking or pilfers food from a convenience store with no intention of paying for it. Minnesota Statutes Section 609.52 provides a list of infractions considered criminal theft. They include:
For all the myriad situations that amount to theft, the more valuable the property, the more severe the consequences. Our Mankato lawyers are experienced in handling all types of theft cases in Southern Minnesota. We are results-oriented lawyers who have helped thousands of clients put their lives back together by fighting to have charges dropped, dismissed, or reduced.
Felony charges can happen when property taken is valued at as little as $500, but even misdemeanor theft charges can come with up to 90 days in jail. Felony theft occurs when the property is valued at $500 to $1,000 and the accused has a prior theft conviction within five years and is penalized by imprisonment up to five years, a fine up to $10,000, or both. The same penalty applies when property is valued at between $1,000 and $5,000 and involves a controlled substance, Schedule III, IV, or V.
Penalties of up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $20,000, or both, are given when the property is valued at $5,000 or more or involves a trade secret, explosive device, or a Schedule I or II controlled substance. A convicted thief can be imprisoned for up to 20 years and fined up to $100,000, or both, if firearms are stolen or the property involved is worth $35,000 or more.
Penalties can be enhanced if the theft creates a foreseeable risk of injury to another person. Our Mankato lawyers study the particulars of a client’s theft case and craft a suitable defense. We offer a payment plan in criminal cases.
All theft charges are subject to being dropped, reduced, or dismissed because of a credible defense. Past clients have been distracted and forgotten to pay for goods or services, and they have been retrieving their own property. Checking accounts can be overdrawn by accident, and often, those accused of theft are wrongly identified. Arresting officers commonly violate citizens’ rights by searching and seizing property without a warrant and failing to read the accused of their rights. Our Mankato attorneys will ensure that a defense is strong for a theft case.
You deserve a strong defense after being accused of a theft crime. Our accolades, including NTL Trial Lawyer of the Year, define our dedication to fairness and second chances. Your circumstances are unique to you, and we present them to your advantage.
An accusation is not a conviction. Our attorneys can negotiate with prosecutors to dismiss your charges under certain conditions, prove your innocence, or argue for probation. Let a Mankato theft lawyer guide you today during a consultation meeting.
