If you face allegations of theft, the value of the allegedly stolen items will play an important part in determining the criminal jeopardy you face. Stealing valuable items could result in lengthy prison terms on top of costly fines.

The good news is that a skilled defense attorney could help you fight back against a theft charge. When you hire a Douglas County theft lawyer, you could rely on them to serve as your advocate throughout the course of your criminal case.

Defining Theft in Douglas County

There are numerous crimes that fall under the category of theft. The concept of larceny involves the taking of another person’s physical property, like a mobile phone or a motor vehicle.

However, theft does not always involve the taking of physical property. Someone could also face larceny charges after unlawfully obtaining services, cash, or other intangible property that has monetary value. As long as the taking is done without the consent of the owner, a criminal charge could apply.

The location where a theft allegedly occurs can vary, as well. Shoplifting is the act of leaving a store with goods that were not purchased. Other acts of theft could occur if a person keeps something they initially had permission to obtain for longer than the owner allowed. In any of these circumstances, a Douglas County attorney could develop a viable defense strategy if you were accused of stealing someone else’s property.

Misdemeanor Theft Charges

The least severe offenses are classified as misdemeanors. In most cases, stealing an item valued below $2,000 will fall into this category. There are different levels of misdemeanors under the law. The lowest level of offense involves the theft of items worth less than $50. This charge could result in a fine of $500 and up to six months in jail.

The highest level is known as an M1. For the theft of items valued between $750 and $2,000, a conviction could bring about as much as 18 months in jail. A fine of $5,000 could also be included by the judge. To learn more about M1s and other levels of misdemeanors, talk to an accomplished larceny attorney in Douglas County.

Felony Theft Charges

There are also felony-level larceny offenses under state law. In most cases, these penalties are also based on the value of the allegedly stolen items. In total, there are five different levels (F2-F6) of felony theft charges. A well-versed Douglas County attorney could help you further understand all types of felony theft charges.

F6 Charge

F6 is the lowest level of a felony theft offense, covering the taking of items valued between $2,000 and $5,000. A conviction for an F6 felony brings penalties of up to 18 months in prison and a fine that tops out at $100,000.

F2 Charge

At the highest level is an F2 charge. F2 covers the taking of anything valued at over $1 million. The fines associated with this offense are over $5 million. The prison sentence can run between eight and 24 years in prison, depending on the decision of the judge.

Talk to a Douglas County Theft Attorney Today

If you have been arrested due to allegations of stealing someone else’s property, you are entitled to a strong defense. When you hire an attorney from our firm, you could receive peace of mind knowing a dedicated Douglas County theft lawyer is fighting for you. Reach out to the Colorado Lawyer Team now to schedule your confidential consultation as soon as possible.