Theft Crime Lawyers in Savannah, GA
Comprehensive Legal Support for Theft Charges in Georgia
Theft crimes have existed in every society throughout all of human history. While theft has been around forever, the way theft crimes occur and how perpetrators identify potential victims changes with the times. The law in Georgia has changed several times to keep up with the new opportunities for theft with the Internet and technology. When you need experienced and diligent theft crime lawyers in Savannah, call Schneider Lerch, LLC for dedicated legal representation.
Our firm has a reputation as one of the most aggressive and successful criminal defense teams in the Savannah area. We are prepared to get to work on your defense immediately. Your first call after an arrest for a theft crime should be to our office-- the earlier we get involved, the better your chances of avoiding conviction.
Call Schneider Lerch, LLC at (912) 417-5008 today or reach out here online to schedule your free, initial consultation.
Understanding Georgia’s Theft Laws
Georgia law defines theft as the unlawful taking of another person’s property “with the intention of depriving him of the property”. Theft crimes are charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, based on the monetary value of the property that was allegedly stolen, whether the defendant has any prior conviction, and other factors.
Georgia law identifies several different types of theft. Call us if you have been charged with any of the following:
- Theft by deception
- Theft by shoplifting
- Theft of services
- Theft by extortion
- Theft of lost or mislaid property
- Robbery
- Shoplifting
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Carjacking
- Identity theft
- Burglary
Consequences of Theft Crimes in Georgia
There were changes in state law regarding penalties for theft in 2012. For stolen property valued at $1,500, the charges will be filed as a misdemeanor offense with penalties of up to one year in jail and up to $1,000 in fines. For property valued between $1,500 and $5,000, felony charges will be filed. The penalties imposed in these cases could include up to 5 years in state prison. For theft crimes with property valued between $5,000 and $25,000, the penalties can include up to 10 years in state prison. For theft of property valued at more than $25,000, the prison sentence can be as high as 20 years in a state correctional facility.
The level of the charges and the penalties are also based upon various other factors, including:
- The accused’s criminal record
- Whether a weapon was used in the commission of the crime
- A weapon being present when the crime was committed
- Threats made against persons in the commission of the crime
In all theft offenses, the judge has the discretion to penalize the offender as if the crime committed was a misdemeanor, which can be a significant advantage to a person who could be facing many years in state prison.
Contact Schneider Lerch, LLC by either calling (912) 417-5008 or by using our online contact form for a free case review.
Defining Petty Theft in Georgia
In Georgia, petty theft occurs when an individual steals something of a certain value in order to keep that item. It’s classified as a misdemeanor under Georgia law, and it typically involves the theft of an item with a value of $1,500 or less. Petty theft can result in fines of up to $1,000 and prison sentences that last up to one year.
Understanding Grand Larceny in Georgia
In Georgia, grand larceny, also known as grand theft, is a type of theft crime that involves the unlawful taking of another person's property or assets that are valued above a certain dollar amount. In Georgia, grand larceny is classified as a felony offense and is punishable by a range of penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
Under Georgia law, grand larceny is defined as the theft of property or assets that are valued at $1,500 or more. This includes a wide range of items, such as money, jewelry, vehicles, electronics, and other valuable items.
Grand larceny can be charged as either a grand theft by taking, which involves physically taking the property of another person, or as a grand theft by deception, which involves obtaining property through deceitful means, such as fraud or embezzlement.
The penalties for grand larceny in Georgia can vary depending on the value of the stolen property and the defendant's criminal history. For example, if the stolen property is valued at $1,500 or more, but less than $5,000, the offense is considered a felony and is punishable by up to 3 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. If the stolen property is valued at $5,000 or more, but less than $25,000, the offense is considered a felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
It is important to note that criminal charges and penalties can vary based on a number of factors, including the specific circumstances of the offense and the defendant's criminal history. If you are facing criminal charges for grand larceny in Georgia, it is important to seek legal representation from our experienced Savannah theft crime lawyers who can help protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Savannah Theft Attorneys: Your Defense Against Theft Charges
Whether you are facing misdemeanor or felony theft charges, you are probably concerned about the impact a conviction will have on your future. Aside from jail time, certain criminal charges can limit opportunities for employment, higher education, and professional license.
With over 10 years of experience and numerous successful cases handled in Georgia, our theft crime attorneys in Savannah work to negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf but also have a reputation for being aggressive trial lawyers who are always ready to go to court.
Don’t let financial concerns stop you from getting the legal advice you need. Call (912) 417-5008 or contact us online for a free consultation.
At Schneider Lerch, LLC, you have an entire legal team on your side when dealing with serious criminal matters. We are ready to help you obtain the best possible outcome in your case.