Home » Areas we serve » Grand Rapids Criminal Defense Lawyers » Grand Rapids Theft Crimes Lawyers
It is surprising to learn that the penalties for Michigan theft offenses are severe and life-changing, which is why you need to consider the charges seriously. Larceny may be a misdemeanor, but a conviction could still lead to jail time. For more serious theft crimes, you could be spending decades behind bars. It is reassuring to know that you have defense options available, but you may not know where to begin with protecting your rights.
If you were arrested for theft crimes, you should make it a top priority to retain skilled legal help. David G. Moore, Attorney at Law, brings a unique perspective to your defense, having spent time on the prosecutor’s side and representing the government. He now dedicates his practice to fighting on behalf of those charged with serious offenses. There are ways to beat the charges or obtain a favorable outcome, and you can trust our team to seek all opportunities. We will expose weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and pursue larceny defenses to avoid harsh punishment.
Please contact David G. Moore, Attorney at Law, today to learn more about how a Grand Rapids theft crimes lawyer gives you an advantage in a criminal case.
State law uses the term larceny, and the basic definition is taking something of value from someone with the intent to deprive them of it. However, there are specific elements the prosecution must prove depending on the specific theft offense.
The first consideration is misdemeanor versus felony. The value of the property stolen is a key factor, since larceny below $1,000 is a misdemeanor and above is a felony. The most serious offenses are punishable by up to 10 years’ incarceration.
Beyond these sentencing rules, a judge will also consider the defendant’s prior criminal history, the vulnerability of the victims, the number of victims, and other factors.
You can rely on a lawyer to handle all essential tasks for the criminal process. If there are opportunities to plea bargain, an attorney knows the process and will advise you on resolving the charges through these options. Legal representation is also crucial in court when your trial date arrives.
There are defenses to theft charges, including mistake, lack of intent, or entrapment. You can also challenge the prosecutor’s evidence and prevent the government from meeting its burden of guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
You can look into plea bargaining by agreement with the prosecutor. By pleading guilty, you might reduce the charges and jail time.