Savannah Theft Lawyer

In common usage, theft is the unauthorized taking or control of another person’s property without the property owner’s permission or consent, with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of it. Every year, there are numerous individuals who are convicted of a theft crime; many of these people are good moral citizens who made a mistake and deserve another chance, rather than fines, jail time and a harsh criminal record. A theft charge can have a significant and lasting impact on a person’s life, affecting their reputation, freedom, and future opportunities.

In addition, there are many people who are wrongfully accused and even convicted of this crime. Defending your rights and seeking justice is crucial in these situations. In order to make sure this does not happen to you, contact our experienced and successful theft crime lawyer in Savannah, GA, for a free legal consultation if you or a loved one has been accused or charged with a crime. Having our experienced attorney here at Jarrett Maillet J.D., PC, is essential before entering the courtroom and navigating the criminal justice system.

Whether you have been accused of misdemeanor petty theft, are facing misdemeanor charges, or are dealing with misdemeanors or felony robbery or theft charges, you need to work with representation that can help you take the steps to protect your rights and your freedom.

When a person has been charged with theft, their whole world can be turned upside down if they are convicted. A theft crime charge, even for a misdemeanor, can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, short-term imprisonment, and a lasting impact on a person’s reputation and legal standing. Once convicted of a theft crime, people must deal with criminal penalties like imprisonment, fines, restitution, and probation. Penalties like these are never easy to accept and can adversely impact a person’s life for many years.

For this reason, anytime a person has been charged with theft in Georgia, it is extremely important that he or she retain the services of a skilled Savannah theft attorney who can protect his or her rights and protect him or her from enhanced legal consequences.

Theft crime cases involve their own particular set of issues, types of evidence, and procedures that should be fully understood by your lawyer for him or her to properly handle your case. Our firm has the ability to handle even the most complex theft charges and has the tenacity to tirelessly defend our clients’ rights every step of the way.

The type of property that is stolen and its worth are the main factors that determine whether a theft will be classified as a felony or a misdemeanor. In Georgia, theft will be considered a misdemeanor if the property that was the subject of the theft is below $500 in value. Handling or possessing stolen goods can also result in a theft charge, regardless of the value of the property.

This is commonly referred to as petty theft or simple theft. Simple theft is often classified as a misdemeanor and can result in misdemeanor charges. Even though these are considered misdemeanors, they are still taken seriously by authorities and can have a significant impact on your reputation and legal standing. The penalties for misdemeanor theft involve a fine of no more than $1,000 and imprisonment for no more than 12 months. Misdemeanor charges for theft can lead to both fines and jail time, making it important to have experienced legal representation.

Felony theft is the theft of property that is valued at more than $500. Depending on the severity of the theft, a judge can decide to deem a theft of items valued over $500 as a misdemeanor. This is solely at the discretion of the judge. If a judge considers the theft to be a felony, the punishment accompanying a conviction will be a sentence of imprisonment not to exceed 10 years (under certain circumstances), but no less than one year.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Facing theft charges in Savannah, Georgia, or the surrounding counties can have a significant impact on your life. Whether you are accused of petty theft, grand theft, or felony theft, the consequences can include substantial monetary penalties, jail time, and a damaged reputation. Theft charges involve complex aspects of criminal law, and the legal process can be overwhelming without the right support.

Having a skilled criminal defense attorney on your side is essential to protect your rights and defend against theft crimes. Criminal defense attorneys with significant experience in Georgia theft cases understand the nuances of local laws and the strategies used by prosecutors. They know how to challenge insufficient evidence, negotiate for reduced penalties, and build a strong defense tailored to your unique circumstances.

A dedicated legal team will thoroughly review the evidence, identify any violations of your constitutional rights, and work to ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the legal process. If you are facing theft charges, a former prosecutor or seasoned criminal defense attorney can offer valuable insight into how your case may be handled in court, increasing your chances of achieving the best possible outcome.

During a free consultation, your attorney will explain the potential consequences of the charges, discuss your options, and outline a defense strategy designed to protect your best interests. By acting quickly and securing experienced legal representation, you can gain control of your case and defend your future.

In Savannah and the surrounding communities, choosing a local criminal defense attorney means you benefit from their established relationships with judges and prosecutors, as well as their unwavering dedication to protecting clients. Don’t wait—contact a criminal defense attorney today to start building your defense and ensure your rights are protected every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crimes Defense in Savannah, GA

When is a theft crime charged as a felony versus a misdemeanor in Savannah/Chatham County?

In Savannah, the most critical factor determining whether a theft crime is a misdemeanor or a felony is the monetary value of the property allegedly stolen. Under Georgia law, most theft offenses, including Theft by Taking and Theft by Shoplifting, are charged as a felony if the value of the stolen property is $1,500 or more. If the property value is less than $1,500, the charge is generally a misdemeanor, though prior convictions can also elevate a minor theft charge to a felony, regardless of the value. A felony conviction, handled in Chatham County Superior Court, carries a potential prison sentence of one to ten years, making early legal intervention essential to argue for a reduction to a misdemeanor offense.

Is simply concealing an item enough to be charged with shoplifting in Savannah, even if I never left the store?

Yes, under Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14), you can be charged with Theft by Shoplifting in Savannah without ever leaving the retail establishment. The prosecution does not need to prove you successfully left the premises; they only need to prove you acted with the intent to deprive the owner of the merchandise without paying the full price. Actions like concealing merchandise in a bag or pocket, altering price tags, or moving an item to a different container are often cited as evidence of intent. A strong defense strategy in these cases involves challenging the required element of intent, arguing the action was accidental, or that you were merely distracted and fully intended to pay.

Can a first-time offender charged with misdemeanor theft in Savannah avoid a criminal conviction?

Yes, a first-time offender facing a minor misdemeanor theft charge (value under $1,500) in Savannah Municipal or State Court often has options to avoid a permanent criminal conviction. Your attorney can explore eligibility for a Pre-Trial Diversion Program or the First Offender Act. Diversion programs typically require community service, fines, and educational classes, resulting in the dismissal of the charge upon successful completion. Pleading under the First Offender Act allows you to serve probation without a formal conviction being entered, which is crucial for protecting future employment and educational opportunities.