Memphis Theft Lawyer

When people think of thieves, they might envision a hardened criminal or even a cartoon caricature. We understand that people charged with theft are real humans with family, friends, and a future worth protecting. Maybe you were wrongly accused of theft. Or maybe you made a simple mistake that will affect the rest of your life. Maybe you needed to aid your family, and you felt the only way you could do that was to commit theft.

Whatever the circumstances, if you’ve been charged with a theft crime you’ll need the help of an experienced Memphis theft lawyer.

At Pickford Law, we understand theft crimes have real consequences and penalties. But we view each case with care and empathy. We want to protect your legal rights and get your charges dropped or reduced. Our legal team will build a case for you to prove your innocence or to highlight mitigating factors to get charges reduced. Whether you committed theft or were wrongfully accused, we’re here to help you.

Have you been charged with theft in Memphis, Tennessee? Contact a criminal defense lawyer at Pickford Law today to schedule a free case review. We’ll discuss your legal options and help you achieve your desired results for your case.

Theft Charges and Penalties in Memphis, TN

Tennessee law defines a theft crime as when someone takes another person’s property without their consent or knowledge. Even if you are wrongfully accused of theft, you can face harsh consequences for the crime. The penalties for theft in Memphis depend on the classification of your charge. For example:

• Class A Misdemeanor: When someone steals property valued at $1,000 or less, the consequences include up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a $2,500 fine.
• Class E Felony: When someone steals property valued between $1,000 and $2,500, the consequences include 1 to 6 years in jail and a $3,000 fine.
• Class D Felony: When someone steals property valued between $2,500 and $10,000, the consequences include 2 to 12 years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
• Class C Felony: When someone steals property valued between $10,000 and $60,000, the consequences include 3 to 15 years in jail and a fine of $10,000.
• Class B Felony: When someone steals property valued between $60,000 and $250,000, the consequences include 8 to 30 years in jail and a $25,000 fine.
• Class A Felony: When someone steals property valued over $250,000, the consequences include 15 to 60 years in jail and a $50,000 fine.

Besides prison time and fines, you could lose professional licenses, gun rights, and child custody for theft crimes. Your immigration status may also be negatively impacted.

Aggravating and Mitigating Factors in Theft Cases

Aggravating factors are reasons a judge may increase a theft crime charge. For example, the judge may add more jail time to your sentence if you’re a multiple-time offender.

Here are some common aggravating factors that could negatively impact your case:

• You have prior convictions
• You were armed with a weapon
• You harmed someone while committing theft
• You were a leader in a conspiracy

On the other hand, mitigating factors are reasons for the judge to reduce a theft crime charge. Some common mitigating factors include:

• You have no prior criminal record
• You have a physical or mental illness
• You’ve shown remorse for the crime
• You acted out of relative necessity

Experienced Memphis Criminal Defense Attorneys

A Memphis criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and represent you in court. Whether you were wrongfully accused or you actually committed theft, an experienced theft attorney can help reduce your charges or get your case dismissed.

At Pickford Law, we support our clients every step of the way. Our goal is to protect your future by defending you today. Contact us and schedule a free consultation so we can get started on your case.