Hinesville Theft Defense Attorney

Arrested for Theft in Hinesville? Contact Us Today

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Hinesville theft defense lawyer is a knowledgeable, experienced, and solutions-focused advocate for clients. With the expertise to handle both felony and misdemeanor theft cases in Georgia, our firm puts clients first. If you or your loved one was arrested for theft, we can help. Contact us today to set up a fully private case review with a top-rated Hinesville theft defense attorney. 

There are Several Different Types of Theft Charges in Georgia

Charged with a theft offense in Hinesville? There are a number of specific types of offenses. Indeed, Georgia law recognizes several forms of theft offenses. Here is an overview: 

• Theft By Taking: The standard theft charge in Georgia arises under O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2. A person commits theft by unlawfully taking or appropriating property belonging to another with the intent to deprive the owner of that property. 
• Theft By Deception: Theft by deception (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-3) occurs when a person obtains property from another person by intentionally creating or reinforcing a false impression of an existing fact or past event.
• Theft By Conversion: Theft by conversion (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-4) happens when a person lawfully receives property belonging to another but then knowingly converts that property for their own use in violation of an agreement or legal obligation.
• Theft By Receiving Stolen Property: Theft by receiving stolen property (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-7) occurs when property is received that they know or should know was stolen.

Penalties for theft offenses in Georgia vary primarily on the value and nature of the property. Theft involving property valued at $1,500 or less is typically prosecuted as a misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. If the value exceeds $1,500, the offense becomes a felony offense that can carry between one and ten years in state prison. 

How Our Hinesville Theft Defense Lawyer Can Help

Facing a theft charge in Hinesville or elsewhere in Liberty County? It is normal to feel stressed out, overwhelmed, and unsure of where to turn next. Jarrett Maillet is a criminal defense lawyer who you can trust for honest, proactive representation. Among other things, our Hinesville theft defense attorney is prepared to: 

• Hear your story and answer your questions; 
• Investigate the theft charges in Hinesville, gathering evidence; 
• Represent you before the police and prosecutors; and
• Take whatever legal action is needed to raise the best defense. 

Theft Charges in Georgia: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the value of the property affect whether theft is a felony in Hinesville, Georgia?

Yes. In fact, it is the primary factor that determines the severity of a theft charge under Georgia law. The state distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony theft based largely on the value of the property involved. Theft involving property valued at $1,500 or less is typically prosecuted as a misdemeanor. If the property exceeds that value, the offense may be charged as a felony. A felony theft is a very serious offense. 

What must prosecutors prove in a theft case in Georgia?

Every person facing a theft charge in Hinesville is presumed innocent until proven guilty. To obtain a conviction, prosecutors must prove the statutory elements of the charged offense beyond a reasonable doubt. In a theft by taking case, the State must show that the defendant unlawfully took or appropriated property belonging to another person. Prosecutors must also establish the intent to deprive the owner of the property. The burden of proof rests on the shoulders of the prosecution. 

Should I give a statement to the police if I was accused of theft in Hinesville?

As a general rule, you should not give any statement to law enforcement without an experienced Hinesville, GA theft defense attorney on your side. Anyone accused of theft has the constitutional right to remain silent under the Fifth Amendment. You are not required to answer investigative questions from law enforcement beyond providing basic identifying information. Let your Hinesville, GA theft defense attorney do the talking. 

Contact Our Hinesville Theft Defense Lawyer Today

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Hinesville theft defense attorney invests time, resources, and attention to detail into every case. Arrested for theft? Contact us today to arrange a completely confidential, no obligation case evaluation. We defend theft charges in Hinesville, Liberty County, and all across the broader Atlantic Coast region in Georgia.