A person took the personal property of some value belonging to another; when the person took the property that person had the specific intent to deprive the alleged victim permanently of that property; and that person carried the property away by obtaining physical possession and control for some period of time and by some movement of the property.

Consequences for the conviction of Theft may potentially include:

• Imprisonment
  
• Probation or parole
  
• Loss of the right to be bonded
  
• Restitution (paid to the victims to compensate for any losses)
  
• Court ordered counseling
  
• Significant fines
  
• Other
  

Likelihood of any of the above consequences depends upon the following factors:

• Prior similar convictions
  
• Any other prior convictions
  
• Currently on probation or parole
  
• Attitude of community and court toward this type of crime
  
• Degree of media attention on case
  
• Mitigating/aggravating circumstances
  
• Other
  

Defenses of Theft may potentially include:

• Insufficient evidence
  
• Factual innocence
  
• True owner
  
• Other
  

What can you do to improve the outcome of your case?

• Gather documentation of your good character (reference letters, employment history, community service, etc.)
  
• Exercise your right to remain silent
  
• Retain qualified counsel as soon as possible
  
• Keep a diary of all significant events and potential witnesses (this information will help your attorney prepare the best possible defense)
  
• DO NOT investigate your own case
  

What can we do to help?

• Early preparation, including legal research and defense identification
  
• Early investigation and identification of all facts helpful to your defense
  
• Interview police to minimize or eliminate the case
  
• Interview the prosecutor to minimize or eliminate the case
  
• Interview all witnesses
  
• Reduce or eliminate bail requirements
  
• Provide emotional support to loved ones and ensure that they are continually updated as to the status of your case
  
• Provide vigorous and aggressive defense
  
• In appropriate cases, negotiate jail alternatives
  
• Obtain an evaluation report from a court approved psychologist (to show counseling may be a better alternative to jail)
  
• Coordinate a private lie detector test
  
• Develop appropriate motions to dismiss the case
  
• Develop appropriate motions to suppress evidence

DISCLAIMER
The statement above is not legal advice! This statement is not intended to be a correct statement of law in your jurisdiction. This statement is intended to give you a very general understanding of what is involved in this type of crime. Please consult an attorney to find out what law applies in your jurisdiction.