Theft offense charges in Washington

Have you been arrested and charged with a theft offense in Washington? It is vitally important that you have a skilled Washington theft offense attorney on your side that can provide you with the defense of your case that you need in order to effectively pursue a favorable outcome. Attorney Erin Bradley McAleer has the experience that you need in handling these types of cases, and you may greatly benefit from the representation that this firm provides.

Theft in the 1st degree

Theft may be categorized into different degrees depending on the value of property involved and other factors. Theft in the first degree is the most serious categorization and may be charged as a class B felony offense in Washington. A defendant may be at risk of facing a maximum of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000 if convicted of first degree theft.

Immediately involving a competent theft crime attorney is one of the most important steps you can take if you have been accused of or arrested for theft in the first degree. You may be at risk of facing years in state prison, fines and probation as well as a ruined career, limited employment opportunities and the burden of living with a criminal record long after you serve your sentence.

2nd degree of Theft offense charges in Washington

Theft in the second degree (theft 2) is a class C felony offense that may be punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. This offense involves the theft of:

Property, services or goods valued at more than $750 to $5,000, except a firearm or motor vehicle;

A public record or instrument filed or kept in the possession of any public office or public servant; or

An access device (debit card, personal identification number, password or other code that can be used to deposit, withdraw or transfer funds).

Challenging second degree theft charges can be difficult, but with the right approach you may be able to avoid a conviction or formal charges altogether. One of the most important pieces of advice I can give in this regard is to consult with an attorney as early in the process as possible – even if you are currently under investigation but formal charges have not yet been filed against you.

Shoplifting

If you are charged with stealing items from a store that are valued at less than $750, then you will be charged with a gross misdemeanor offense, and you could spend up to a year in jail and be required to pay up to $5,000 in fines.

Robbery

Robbery is the criminal offense of stealing items from another’s possession, or their immediate presence. In the absence of the use of a deadly weapon, you could be charged with a Class B felony, and you will face up to ten years in prison, accompanied by other penalties for conviction.

First-Degree Burglary

If you are charged with burglary in the first degree, then you will face very serious penalties for a criminal conviction. The maximum sentence that you could face in this type of charge is life imprisonment, depending on the circumstances of your case.

Possession of Stolen Property

Receiving stolen property is a theft crime. If you are charged with this crime, then you could suffer serious penalties depending on the circumstances under which you received the property, and the value of the property that you received.

Defending Your Rights in Court:

If you have been arrested with a criminal offense such as a theft crime, then you need skilled representation on your side to help you pursue a favorable outcome. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer is a firm dedicated to the excellent representation and success of clients. Because of his training and experience, lawyer Erin Bradley McAleer can defend people in an innovative and thorough manner. Contact the firm today to discuss your criminal charges as well as to obtain information and advice regarding your case without any financial obligation on your part through a free consultation.

FREE CONSULTATION With Washington Theft Offense Attorney:

The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer will fight to ensure that you achieve the best possible outcome in your court case. Call attorney Erin Bradley McAleer today at (360) 334-6277 to schedule a free, confidential consultation.

Washington Attorney Erin Bradley McAleer represents clients throughout Southwest Washington State, including in Clark County, Cowlitz County, and Skamania County and Vancouver, Battle Ground, Camas, La Center, Ridgefield, Washougal, Woodland, Yacolt, Castle Rock, Kalama, Kelso, Longview, North Bonneville, and Stevenson. Attorney Erin Bradley McAleer focuses on the areas of Criminal Defense, Traffic Infractions, Landlord Tenant, Personal Injury, Firearm Rights Restoration, and Post-Conviction Relief (Vacating & Sealing Criminal Records).