Knoxville Theft Crime Defense Attorney

If you have been accused of theft, you need to hire an attorney as soon as possible. Even if you have not yet been charged with a crime, you may be under investigation. Police may be gathering evidence and building a case against you. You could be facing serious consequences if convicted of theft, so you need to take action now. You need a skilled attorney who understands the criminal justice system and knows how to defend clients from theft charges.

A theft defense lawyer from S|D Law can help you protect your rights and help you fight theft charges. Our firm handles cases in Knoxville and across East Tennessee.

Schedule a consultation online or by calling us directly at (865) 276-8441 today.

What Are the Penalties for Theft in Tennessee?

Theft is a very serious crime in Tennessee. Depending on the value of the property that was stolen and the circumstances surrounding the crime, the penalties for theft can be very harsh. For example, if you are convicted of shoplifting merchandise worth $1,000 or less, you could face a Class A misdemeanor charge. A Class A misdemeanor conviction carries a possible sentence of 11 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the merchandise is worth more than $1,000, you could be facing a variety of penalties that increase depending on the value of what was stolen. 

If you are convicted of theft, you could also face civil penalties. For example, if you are found liable for stealing another person's car, that person could sue you for monetary damages. A lawsuit for damages could result in you having to pay the person you stole from for the value of the stolen property and any other damages that were caused. 

How Does the Prosecutor Prove Theft in Court?

To convict you of theft in court, the prosecutor must prove several elements of the crime. First, the prosecutor must prove that you took the property of another person without that person's consent. Next, the prosecutor must prove that you intended to permanently deprive that person of the property when you took it. The prosecutor must also prove that you took the property directly off the owner's premises, or that you took it through the mail or by deception.

If you are facing theft charges, you need an attorney who understands the criminal justice system and can help you fight theft charges. 

Contact our firm for a FREE consultation. Our theft defense attorney will review your case and help you develop a strong defense strategy.