THEFT CRIMES: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

THEFT CRIMES: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q:WHAT IS A THEFT CRIME?

A:Theft is any criminal offense occurring when a person takes another person’s property without consent. Theft crimes can be either misdemeanors or felonies, usually depending on the value of the stolen property, the existence of a previous criminal record, and whether a weapon was used in the theft.

Q:WHAT PENALTIES CAN I FACE FOR A CONVICTION?

A:You could be subjected to several legal penalties such as imprisonment, court fees, fines, restitution, probation, and community service. The extent of your penalties will depend on the type of criminal offense you are convicted of.

Q:WHAT IS PETTY THEFT?

A:There is no such thing as petty theft, but misdemeanor offenses can be equivalent. A Class C misdemeanor involves property under $50. A Class B misdemeanor involves property between $50-$500. A Class A misdemeanor involves property between $500-$1,500.

Q:WHAT IS GRAND THEFT?

A:Grand theft is taking someone else’s property that is worth more than $500. This is usually charged as a felony offense and it carries more than a year of jail time for a conviction.

Q:DO I NEED AN ATTORNEY FOR MY CASE?

A:If you have been charged with a theft crime, representing yourself could put you at a significant disadvantage. You should instead call the Law Office of A. Oliver Hassibi for representation. He can vigorously defend you as he has done for other clients.

Q:WHAT IS ADJUDICATION AND DEFERRED DISPOSITION?

A:Deferred adjudication is an alternative to sentencing that can permit a defendant to avoid a conviction. It allows the judge to postpone or defer a guilty verdict for a period of time during which the defendant will be placed under community supervision or probation. Successful completion of the supervision will cause the judge to discharge the defendant and dismiss the case. Deferred Disposition is for Class C offenses and is similar to adjudication except the defendant is not required to be on formal probation. Rather, the defendant is given certain goals to meet during a short period of time if the preset goals are met, the case is dismissed.