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Theft Crime Lawyers in Shreveport Fighting For The Legal Rights of the Accused

If you or a family member have been accused of theft charges in Louisiana, you must hire an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. A theft conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record that will haunt you for the rest of your life. For example, suppose you are convicted of felony theft. In that case, you will be considered a felon, prohibiting you from legally owning a firearm, serving in the military, or even attending the higher learning institution of your choice.

Therefore, you need a highly skilled attorney who can aggressively advocate on your behalf. Our law firm has extensive experience handling various types of theft cases and can ensure we provide you with a robust criminal defense. The Louisiana criminal justice system can be overly complex and challenging to navigate without the help of a Shreveport theft lawyer

If you have been charged with a theft crime, contact Whiddon Criminal Defense of Shreveport, and ask to schedule a free consultation with an experienced theft crime lawyer immediately. A qualified legal team member will gladly review your case and determine the available legal options.

What is the Difference Between Misdemeanor Theft and Felony Theft?

In Louisiana, shoplifting is a type of theft, but the charges may vary depending on the facts of the case. A shoplifting charge classified as a misdemeanor will have less harsh punishments than other types of shoplifting charges. Whether a person is charged with a misdemeanor or a felony will depend on the value of the goods taken. A person will face misdemeanor shoplifting charges if the value of the property stolen was less than $1,000.

A conviction for a misdemeanor shoplifting charge can result in jail time, but if so, it is usually fairly short. However, there are instances in which even those convicted do not serve jail time for a misdemeanor conviction.

If you have been charged with a theft crime, it is imperative that you hire a Shreveport theft lawyer immediately. A qualified attorney can aggressively defend you and negotiate with prosecutors to reach a favorable outcome on your behalf.

What Are Considered to Be Theft Crimes?

As previously stated, theft crimes are classified as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the property stolen.
The most common type of misdemeanor theft charge typically includes shoplifting. Shoplifting or fraudulent conduct occurs when an individual takes goods from a merchant with the intent to deprive them of payment. However, even though many people do not consider shoplifting a serious criminal offense, a conviction could still result in a jail sentence, depending on the circumstances surrounding the crime.
Several criminal offenses are classified as felony theft crimes in Louisiana, which include:

  • Grand theft auto
  • Grand theft
  • Armed robbery
  • Embezzlement
  • Possession of stolen goods

Felony theft is considered a serious offense by state prosecutors. If convicted of felony theft charges, an individual could face harsh consequences, including jail time or time in state prison.
Therefore, to receive the best outcome for your case and protect your future, contact Whiddon Criminal Defense to learn what legal options may be available. Our legal team has a proven record of achieving positive results in criminal defense cases.

Felony Shoplifting Charges

When the amount of property stolen is valued between $1,000 and $25,000, the theft charge will be classified as a felony. When the amount in question is less than $5,000, a person may face up to give years in prison. In cases that involve higher amounts, such as $25,000 or more, a person may face up to 20 years in prison.

What Are the Criminal Penalties For Theft in Louisiana?

The penalties for criminal theft in Louisiana vary depending on the value of the stolen property and the defendant’s prior criminal history. However, prosecutors take a dim view of theft crimes; therefore, you will need a criminal defense lawyer who will aggressively advocate on your behalf.
Some of the criminal penalties for theft charges in Louisiana include:

  • Misdemeanor theft penalties for property valued at $500 or less can result in the defendant being sentenced to up to 6 months of jail time and up to $1,000 in fines. However, if it is an individual’s third criminal offense, they could face up to two years in prison and fines ranging up to $2,000.

An individual can face a felony charge if the total value of the stolen property is greater than $1,000. Some of the penalties for felony theft include:

    • Felony theft valued between $1,000 and $4,999: Up to 5 years in prison and fines ranging up to $3,000.
    • Felony theft valued between $5,000 and $24,999: Up to 10 years in prison and fines ranging up to $10,000.
    • Felony theft valued at $25,000 or more: Up to 20 years in prison at hard labor and fines ranging up to $50,000.

The court will also order that individuals convicted of theft charges must pay the victim some restitution.

Why Do I Need to Hire a Criminal Defense Attorney if I Have Been Accused of a Theft Crime?

Louisiana courts take a tough stance on theft crimes regardless of whether they are misdemeanors or felonies. Many individuals make the initial mistake of choosing to represent themselves in the legal process. However, they soon quickly realize the criminal justice system is far more complicated than they originally believed. A felony theft conviction can negatively impact your life in terms of finding gainful employment and achieving your life goals.

For this reason, if you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, hiring a Shreveport theft lawyer who can aggressively defend your rights is in your best interest. Whiddon Criminal Defense is a law firm dedicated to helping individuals in Louisiana avoid theft convictions, which will result in a criminal record.

If you have been accused of illegally taking someone else’s property, you must hire a theft lawyer to defend your rights and help you resume your life. Contact Whiddon Criminal Defense of Shreveport, Louisiana, at 318-594-4565 and ask to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.