Salt Lake City, Utah Theft Defense Lawyer

Knowledgeable Salt Lake City Defense Lawyer for Theft Crimes

In the state of Utah, theft-related crimes can come with hard punishments. If you have been arrested for stealing somebody else's property or assets, seeking out legal representation is highly advisable. An experienced Salt Lake City theft defense attorney can advise you of your options to fight the charges against you, fighting to protect your best interests.

At Salt City Defense, we have over a decade of experience representing clients in a wide variety of criminal law cases. When you work with our law firm, Attorney Cliff Venable will keep you informed and involved during your case, providing sound legal advice to suit your needs.

Theft

You can be charged with theft in Utah if you steal or take control of somebody else's property with the aim of depriving them of that property. Depending on the circumstances behind your arrest, you could be charged with either a misdemeanor or felony for this offense.

The theft of property or money is charged as a misdemeanor when the total value of the stolen items amounts to less than $1,500. However, stealing an operable motor vehicle or a gun is always charged as a second-degree felony, regardless of the item's value. Second-degree felonies are punishable by up to 15 years in prison, along with a potential fine of up to $10,000.

You may be able to defend against a theft charge if you can prove that you did not intend to deprive the victim of their property. Alternatively, you could assert that you were given rightful ownership or possession of the alleged stolen property. At Salt City Defense, we can explore your options for your defense and negotiate for a favorable sentence on your behalf.

Burglary

Burglary is usually charged in addition to separate crimes rather than a standalone offense. If you enter a building unlawfully with the intention to commit theft, you could be charged with a third-degree felony, which may carry up to five years in prison. However, if you burglarized somebody else's home, the charge will be upgraded to a second-degree felony.

To fight a burglary charge, you could claim that you were not violating any laws by entering or remaining within the building. Additionally, if you can prove that you had no intent to commit theft, the charges against you could be dismissed.

Robbery

Robbery is a violent crime that is charged when someone attempts to use force or the threat of force to steal from another person. This crime is charged as a second-degree felony, but it can escalate to a first-degree felony if the victim was seriously injured, threatened with a dangerous weapon, or if the offender took or attempted to take an operable motor vehicle.

First-degree felonies carry a hard minimum of five years in prison with the potential for life imprisonment, so if you have been accused of robbery, it is imperative that you seek out an aggressive criminal defense lawyer who will fight to reduce the charges against you. At Salt City Defense, our attorney will all possible options to minimize a robbery charge, protecting your rights in a court of law.

Meet With a Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT

Have you been accused of a crime involving somebody else's property? At Salt City Defense, we represent clients faced with all kinds of misdemeanor and felony theft-related charges. Attorney Cliff Venable has handled hundreds of cases across his career, guiding people through the legal proceedings of a court case and working toward the best possible outcome no matter the circumstances.

We are available 24/7 for any client concerns. To schedule a free initial consultation, call our offices at 919-744-6471 or contact us online today.