Oakland County Theft Crimes Attorney
Theft accusations can have a devastating impact on your reputation, relationships, and future. Because any theft is associated with dishonesty, charges of this nature can damage your personal and professional stability, leading to a loss of trust from friends, family, and employers. If convicted, a criminal record involving theft can make finding a job or advancing a professional career extremely difficult, especially in fields requiring security clearances.
Some educational programs may restrict enrollment, and landlords may be unwilling to rent to those with theft convictions. Because of these consequences, you must put a skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side in fighting charges.
At HJP Legal, we work every legal angle to help protect your freedom and future. Attorney Halley Peters is highly experienced in Michigan criminal law, the court system, and procedures. She can tackle your case by independently investigating the facts and evidence and building a defense strategy tailored to your unique circumstances.
Reserve a consultation with our Oakland County theft crimes lawyer at HJP Legal by calling us at (734) 593-1688 or on our online contact form. Attorney Peters is licensed in Michigan, Florida & California.
Why Choose HJP Legal?
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Strategic Advice & RepresentationAttorney Halley J. Peters is well-versed in ensuring your legal rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will ensure that the evidence being used against you is obtained legally and within legal boundaries.
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Minimize PenaltiesCriminal charges can have severe consequences, including losing certain rights, massive fines and penalty fees, and potential incarceration. A skilled criminal defense attorney like Halley J. Peters can help to minimize these penalties or even fight to get the charges dismissed entirely.
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Clear Communication & TransparencyHalley is here for you every step of the way. She keeps her clients informed and up to date on important developments in their cases, and is readily available to answer any questions or address any concerns that may arise.
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Legal ExpertiseHalley is an experienced criminal defense attorney with the knowledge, skills, and resources to handle your criminal case. She understands the legal procedures and tactics of the prosecution, allowing her to provide you with the best defense.
Theft Crimes in Michigan
Michigan law defines theft, also known as larceny, as the stealing of the property of one person by another with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. Theft can involve goods, services, money, deeds, and other personal belongings. The severity of the charge and potential penalties generally depend on the value of the stolen property.
Examples of Michigan theft crimes include:
- Petty theft (larceny under $200): A misdemeanor offense with potential penalties of up to 93 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or three times the value of the stolen property (whichever is greater).
- Petty theft (larceny over $200 up to $1,000 in value}: A misdemeanor offense carrying up to a year in prison and a fine of up to $2,000.
- Theft of $1,000 to $20,000 in value: This is a felony offense punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Theft of $20,000 or more in value: A felony offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.
- Retail fraud (shoplifting): Stealing merchandise from a store, varying from third-degree misdemeanors resulting in 93 days up to a year in jail and fines of $500 up to $1,000 or felonies punishable by up to five years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. How you are charged depends on the value of what was stolen.
- Embezzlement: Misusing entrusted property or funds for personal gain. Penalties can range from 93 days up to 20 years.
- Receiving and concealing stolen property: Knowing possession of stolen property is a crime, even if you weren't the one who stole it. Depending on the property's value, this can be a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Auto theft: Stealing a motor vehicle is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison.
Depending on the circumstances, courts can also impose restitution and community service.
Our Theft Defense Services
At HJP Legal, we can take several steps to help you fight theft crime charges. Ms. Peters can carefully review the evidence against you to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. She can develop a strong defense strategy that may include demonstrating a lack of intent, mistaken identity, or the rightful ownership of the property.
She can also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties and, should your case go to trial, present evidence and arguments on your behalf, working to secure a favorable outcome. These are all actions for which you need a reliable and skilled attorney; our firm has a reputation for proficient legal representation and empathetic support of our clients.
Arrange for a consultation with our Oakland County theft crime lawyer today. You can reach us online or at (734) 593-1688.