Being charged with theft crimes can be scary and embarrassing. You may worry about your reputation and wonder if you must pay fines or spend time in jail. The truth is every criminal charge is unique, and the results of your case may be different from anyone else’s. Each theft crimes case in Idaho depends on several factors, including the amount of goods stolen and whether force was used.
If you or your loved one has been charged with theft in the Boise area, you need to know that competent criminal defense attorneys are protecting your rights and defending you aggressively before and during the trial. With so much at stake, you should hire a law firm with years of experience and dedication to getting positive outcomes. Call our team of attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you get your theft charges lowered or dropped entirely. You can reach our legal team by calling 208-584-2590.
What Are Misdemeanor Theft Charges in Idaho?
Theft crimes in Idaho come in two categories: misdemeanor and felony theft. Misdemeanor theft is less severe and usually comes with a lighter sentencing. However, the crime itself can seem minor yet result in harsher punishment if there are certain aggravating factors involved, such as the use of a deadly weapon.
In Idaho, a misdemeanor theft crime is defined as stealing goods valued at $1,000 or less. These crimes may include:
- Shoplifting
- Embezzling money or property
- Fraud
- Keeping property that belongs to someone else, even if they lost it
- Making unauthorized purchases with an account that was previously authorized
- Stealing labor
- Misrepresentations resulting in stolen property or services
What Are Some Examples of Theft Charges in Idaho?
Felony theft charges may arise in the same categories as misdemeanor theft, but these crimes involve stolen goods or services worth more than $1,000. Felony crimes include any attempt to deprive another person of their property through misrepresentation, fraud, embezzlement, or deception. Using threat of force against another person may also merit felony theft charges, whether or not the threat of harm was carried out.
A felony charge may be brought against anyone in Idaho who steals the following items, regardless of the estimated value of the item:
- Public record
- Credit card
- Firearms
- Livestock
- Financial account information
Penalties for felony theft crimes may include up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Please note that these amounts could increase or decrease depending on the circumstances of your case. Additionally, individuals with a felony conviction may be limited on what employment they can obtain, where they live, and whether they can keep custody of their children in a divorce. Reach out to our legal team now to get help fighting your felony theft charges.
Why Should I Hire an Attorney to Fight My Theft Charges?
Facing any criminal charges can be scary and confusing, and theft crimes charges are no exception. You may wonder what to say to police officers and how to handle your defense. The good news is that you can rely on our caring, capable criminal defense lawyers to help guide you through this complex process.
When you hire our attorneys, you can count on us to perform such duties as:
- Conducting an investigation to discover the truth about what happened
- Gathering evidence to introduce doubt into the prosecution’s argument
- Advising you on how to answer law enforcement’s questions, including when to exercise your right to remain silent
- Negotiating with prosecutors to get your charges dropped or lowered
- Developing a solid defense to ensure you don’t get the maximum sentencing
- Defending you confidently before a judge and jury
Should You Hire Our Theft Defense Attorneys?
Our skilled team of attorneys is ready to defend you no matter what charges you are facing. We believe that everyone has the right to defend themselves against criminal charges, and we will ensure your legal rights are protected at every step of your legal proceedings. Our compassionate legal professionals will work tirelessly to develop a strong defense that can lead to getting your charges dismissed or dropped altogether.
Call 208-584-2590 now to discuss your unique case with our legal team and see how we can help.