Staten Island Theft Crime Lawyer

Staten Island Theft Crime Attorney

Theft is a fairly common offense. While some people commit theft crimes out of necessity, others do so because of peer pressure or other personal reasons. Unfortunately, the law does not often empathize with an offender’s situation when they have been arrested and charged with theft. The consequences for these relatively minor infractions can be serious.

If you have been arrested for or charged with a theft-related crime, it is important to understand the facts and the risks associated with the legal process that follows. You could face consequences that threaten your entire way of life, future plans, and relationships. Fortunately, with the help of a New York criminal defense lawyer, you can mitigate the damage and get on with your life.

The Vitaliano Law Firm: Your Theft Defense Attorneys

Although there are many NYC criminal lawyers, our firm leads the industry in the defense of theft-related offenses. This is because we understand the entire situation that leads to theft offenses and approach our clients with open minds. We get to know you and your story so that we can put together a compelling case in your favor. Most criminal defense lawyers in Staten Island, NY, do not offer this level of service and care to their clients.

Although we are patient and understanding with all of our criminal law clients, we are ruthless in our pursuit of justice. No one should have to face unfair charges alone, and we can be your fierce advocates throughout the entire process. Our NYC theft lawyers work around the clock to represent our clients, and our track record in this area speaks for itself.

We serve criminal law clients in Staten Island, New York City, and the surrounding areas.

What Is a Theft Charge?

Theft charges are not as straightforward as many people believe. In fact, many people believe that robbery, larceny, and theft are all the same when they are distinct in important ways.

Theft is a large blanket term that encompasses stealing of many kinds. Shoplifting and grand theft auto both fall under this umbrella, for example. Robbery is distinct because it involves stealing something through methods of force or intimidation. Armed robbery means that the offender had a weapon and attempted to use it to take what they wanted. Finally, larceny is when one person attempts to take the personal property of another person. In some states, larceny and theft are the same under the law.

Because theft is such a large area of the legal system, the charges can be misdemeanors or felonies. This is also called a “wobble” charge. If the stolen goods, or the attempted stolen goods, amount to $1,000 or less, the offense is considered petty theft. This is usually charged as a misdemeanor and punishable with up to a year in jail, depending on the circumstances. Stolen goods totaling $1,000 or more result in a grand larceny charge. These charges are felony in nature and result in more severe consequences that depend upon the unique situation.

Why Do I Need a Staten Island Theft Attorney?

If you are facing theft charges of any kind, it is important that you find an attorney to represent you. Because theft charges can have a significant impact on your life, you will need someone with extensive legal knowledge to handle your case. Felonies remain on your record and can prevent you from getting a good job, finding housing, voting, and exercising many other basic rights. These consequences last for the duration of your life, unless you can get your offense expunged. This means that an offense at a young age can affect a person’s entire future.

With the help of an attorney, you may be able to reduce your charges or minimize their impact. In many cases, we can help you get the charges dropped altogether. We will work with you to develop a defense argument that is unique to your situation and works to maintain your innocence.

Theft Crimes FAQs

Q: How Do You Defend Theft Charges?

A: Your defense will depend on the details of your case. We may argue that you are the rightful owner of the alleged stolen goods or that you believed yourself to be the rightful owner. In other cases, we may be able to prove that you had the intention to return the goods and thought you had permission to borrow them. We may be able to convince the court that you were coerced or otherwise forced to commit the offense.

Q: What Are the Types of Stealing?

A: There are many types of stealing that fall under the theft umbrella. These include shoplifting, robbery, armed robbery, embezzlement, larceny, false pretenses, and fraud. The court views all of these categories differently, and therefore, prosecutors will file charges differently for each one. In most cases, for example, an armed robbery is considered much more serious than a minor shoplifting charge.

Q: Can Your Case for Theft Be Dismissed?

A: Yes, but you need an attorney if you wish to have your charges dropped. Because theft is a criminal offense, the state or federal government is bringing the charges forward rather than another individual or business. Only the prosecution can drop the charges, and the government is not likely to do so unless there is sufficient evidence in your favor. An attorney can help give you the best chance of having your charges dismissed.

Q: What Are the Legal Requirements for Theft?

A: For an offense to be considered theft, a few things must be true. The offender must:

• Take, use, borrow, or steal something that rightfully belongs to someone else without their permission.
• Have the intention of permanently keeping the item.

More specific types of theft have more specific requirements, conditions, and punishments.

Contact The Vitaliano Law Firm

If you are facing theft charges in Staten Island, NYC, or the surrounding areas, you need to act quickly. Our team has the experience and resources you need to avoid long-term consequences. For more information about our firm, contact The Vitaliano Law Firm online today.