Gretna Theft Lawyer
Skilled Theft Lawyers Serving Gretna, Louisiana
The criminal statutes in Louisiana define the offense of theft as taking valuable property from another person without their consent and with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. Joyriding, for example, is not considered an act of theft because this requires a person to steal a vehicle but eventually return it to the owner. On the other hand, if someone stole someone else’s vehicle and intended to keep it, that is considered grand theft auto. The criminal statutes in the state also outline many different types of theft. These include larceny, embezzlement, and theft by false pretenses. Our Gretna theft lawyer can defend against any theft charge you are facing.
Different Types of Theft in Gretna
The least severe type of theft in Gretna is stealing property valued at less than $1,000 from another person with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. This crime is classified as a misdemeanor and is punishable by up to five years in prison, a $1,000 maximum fine, or both. Other types of theft in Louisiana, and the penalties associated with them, include:
- Theft of property with a value between $1,000 and $5,000: The penalty is a maximum five years in prison and a $3,000 maximum fine.
- Theft of property with a value between $5,000 and $25,000: This offense is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.
- Theft of property with a value more than $25,000: The most serious of theft crimes, this offense is punishable by up to 20 years in prison and a $50,000 maximum fine.
It is important to understand that the above penalties only apply to people who are charged with a first offense. If you have a previous theft conviction on your criminal record, both prison times and maximum fines can increase. You will immediately need to speak with our Gretna theft lawyer for help.
Shoplifting Charges in Gretna
State law defines shoplifting as the act of stealing property from a commercial business. Like other theft charges in the state, the prosecution must show that a person intended to deprive the merchant of the property permanently. There are many actions that can constitute shoplifting and they are as follows:
- Altering or removing price tags or other markings
- Concealing items intentionally
- Changing packages to avoid detection
The penalties for shoplifting differ depending on the value of the property taken. People convicted of shoplifting may face civil liability in addition to criminal penalties. Individuals may be forced to return the property and they may have to pay an additional $500 in penalties.
Our Gretna Theft Lawyer Can Help with Your Charges
Many people think that theft is a minor criminal offense, but that is not true. At the Law Office of Robert S. Toale, our Gretna theft lawyer can prepare the strategy that will help you beat your charges and protect your future moving forward. If you have been charged, do not hesitate to call or text us now at (504) 368-8440 or chat with us online to request a free consultation with our knowledgeable attorney and get the legal help you need.