KNOXVILLE THEFT CRIME DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Skilled Defense Against Theft Crime Charges in Knox and Anderson Counties
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) 426-1646 today.
Understanding Theft: What Constitutes Theft in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, theft is broadly defined as the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to deprive the owner of its value or use. This encompasses a range of actions and includes offenses such as shoplifting, burglary, embezzlement, and identity theft. Under Tennessee law, theft can be categorized by the value of the stolen property, which will impact the severity of charges and potential penalties. It is critical to understand the specific nuances and categorizations of theft under Tennessee law. They will determine the legal strategy and defensive approach your case needs. A knowledgeable attorney experienced in theft defense can guide you through these complexities and provide the robust representation necessary to protect your rights.
Consequences of Theft: What Are the Penalties 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.
Proving Theft in Tennessee Courts
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.
Protecting Your Rights in Theft Crime Cases
When facing theft crime charges in Tennessee, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable and experienced defense attorney on your side to protect your rights and advocate for your best interests. At Stephens & DiRado, LLP, our team of legal professionals is dedicated to providing aggressive defense strategies for individuals facing theft allegations in Knox and Anderson Counties.
