Theft Attorney in Arizona, AZ
Theft is a serious crime that carries the possibility of substantial fines and jail time. Even a conviction for lesser categories of theft could harm your reputation and jeopardize future employment opportunities. If you face theft charges, it is essential to work with a seasoned Arizona theft lawyer.
For a free legal consultation with a theft lawyer serving Arizona, call 480-400-5555
Grand Canyon Law Group – Your Trusted Arizona Criminal Defense Lawyers
As former prosecutors, the dedicated criminal defense attorneys at Grand Canyon Law Group are familiar with the state’s complex theft laws and will advocate aggressively to defend you and help you keep your record clean.
We know the criminal justice system inside and out, and we are prepared to take on any challenge in your case. We also offer 24-hour availability to our clients because we understand that legal emergencies do not confine themselves to regular business hours. Whenever you need us, we are there for you.
Arizona Theft Lawyer Near Me 480-400-5555
Defining Theft
Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-1802, a person commits theft if they take another’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Theft can also involve obtaining another’s services or property by material misrepresentations. Even a person who knowingly keeps a package erroneously delivered to them could be guilty of theft.
Additionally, theft does not have to be of a tangible item. If a person wrongfully assumes another person’s identity, they may face theft charges. When a complex criminal scheme is alleged, prosecutors often charge theft with other offenses like burglary, forgery, and fraud. Because the likelihood of multiple charges in these cases is high, a person accused of any theft count in Arizona should consult with a seasoned attorney as soon as possible.
Theft is a very common offense in Arizona. In Maricopa County, for example, there were 4,198 theft cases referred to the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office for processing in 2025.
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Penalties for Theft Convictions in Arizona
Theft may be classified as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the value of the allegedly stolen items. Property valued at $1000 or more could trigger a felony charge, while lesser stolen items usually result in misdemeanors. The higher the property value, the more likely a defendant is to face more severe charges.
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Penalties for First-Time Offenses
Under Arizona Revised Statutes §13-707, a misdemeanor conviction for property valued at less than $1,000, referred to as a Class One misdemeanor, may result in up to six months of incarceration. However, per §13-702, first-time offenders face the following sentences for felony theft convictions:
- Class Six: The lowest level felony charge. Involves property valued between $1,000 and $1,999 and is punishable by four months to two years in prison.
- Class Five: Involves property valued between $2,000 and $2,999. Those charged face between six months and 2.5 years in prison.
- Class Four: Involves property valued between $3,000 and $3,999. Punishable by one to 3.75 years in prison.
- Class Three: Involves property valued between $4,000 and 24,999. Conviction could result in between two and 8.75 year’s imprisonment.
- Class Two: The most severe felony theft charge. Involves property valued over $25,000 and is punishable by between three and 12.5 years in the Department of Corrections.
Sentencing for Repeat Offenses
If the accused has prior theft or other felony convictions, a judge may rely on different
sentencing guidelines found in Arizona Revised Statutes §13-703, which outline the increased penalties for repeat offenders.
For example, a defendant convicted of multiple felony offenses may be sentenced as a first-time felony offender for the first offense, a category two repetitive offender for the second offense, and a category three repetitive offender for the third and subsequent offenses. A person at least age 18 or who has been tried as an adult and convicted of a felony and has two or more prior felony convictions may be sentenced as a category three repetitive offender.
The penalties differ for each category, and a knowledgeable attorney can help an individual better understand the charges they are facing and develop an aggressive defense on their behalf.
Potential Defenses Against Theft Charges
The work of a defense attorney entails building a defense for their client that addresses the charges against them and casts doubt on the prosecution’s case. The following are some possible defenses an attorney might use when arguing against theft charges.
- Mistaken identity: This defense strategy asserts that, although a crime may have been committed, the attorney’s client is not the person responsible for it.
- Lack of knowledge: In some cases, a defendant may have taken property without realizing it belonged to someone else or thinking it belonged to someone who had given the defendant access to it. In these instances, a defense attorney may argue that a defendant was not aware they were committing a crime.
- Alibi: In an alibi defense, a defense attorney argues that their client could not have committed the crime in question because they were somewhere else at the time the crime was committed.
Other defenses, such as a violation of the defendant’s constitutional rights, may also apply. A practiced theft attorney from Grand Canyon Law Group will review the case and determine the optimal strategy to protect the defendant’s reputation and freedom.
Why You Should Hire a Theft Lawyer
In the United States of America, you have the right to represent yourself in court when you face criminal charges. However, it is generally not advisable for people without extensive knowledge of the law to do this. If you are facing theft charges, you should hire a theft lawyer as soon as you can. Your attorney can help you understand your legal options and build a defense against your charges.
FAQs
What Is the Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony?
Generally, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony is that a misdemeanor is considered less serious than a felony, and potential punishments are less severe. Misdemeanors, as a defining feature, cannot be punished by more than 364 days in prison. Felonies, on the other hand, may be punished by prison terms exceeding one year. Whether a theft is considered a felony or a misdemeanor usually depends on the value of the stolen property.
Where Are Theft Cases Handled in Arizona?
Where a theft case is handled in Arizona depends on whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor cases are usually handled by the municipal court in the county where the alleged offense took place. Felony cases are handled through the Arizona Superior Court in the county where the theft took place. For example, a trial for felony theft taking place in Maricopa County would likely be in the Central Court Building, located at 201 West Jefferson Street in Phoenix.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Theft Attorney in Arizona?
If you need to hire a theft attorney in Arizona, the cost to do so can vary based on factors like the potential attorney’s individual hourly rate, any other fees built into their services, the complexity of your case, and how long it takes to resolve the case. Usually, a theft attorney requires a retainer payment to begin working for a client.
Is Theft Considered a Violent Crime?
Theft is not considered a violent crime in Arizona. Theft does not involve the use of physical force or the threat of physical force against a victim, so it does not qualify as a violent crime. Robbery, however, is considered a violent crime. Robbery is taking someone else’s property by using force or threatening violence against the victim.
Call a Skilled Arizona Theft Attorney for Help
Every theft case is different, and some are more factually complex than others. An experienced Arizona theft lawyer can review the evidence in your case and work to construct a robust defense on your behalf.
If you have been accused of theft or a related offense, contact our firm today to protect yourself,
your record, and your future. Our team of former prosecutors knows exactly what to expect from the state, and we can use our experience to protect you in court. Put your trust in us to handle your case and protect your way of life.
Call or text 480-400-5555 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
