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Theft Defense Attorney in Lowell

When facing a theft charge, your future is on the line, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. A conviction can leave lasting consequences, including difficulty finding employment, a tarnished reputation and financial devastation. Paul Rossi Law Offices understands what’s at risk. With over 75 years of combined litigation experience, our skilled attorneys provide compassionate, effective representation to protect your rights and pursue the best outcome possible. If you’ve been charged with theft in Indiana, you need an experienced advocate in your corner who can help you move forward. 

Understanding Theft Charges in Indiana

Before taking action, it’s crucial to understand the specifics of theft charges in Indiana. At its core, theft involves intentionally taking control of someone else’s property without their consent, with the intention of depriving them of its value or use. 

Acts Considered Theft

“Theft” isn’t limited to the traditional image of stealing tangible items. Under Indiana law, theft may include a broad range of actions, such as: 

  • Taking physical property, such as money, clothing or electronics, without permission. 
  • Fraudulently using someone else’s credit or debit card. 
  • Withholding property you initially borrowed, with no intention of returning it. 
  • Misleading someone into giving you their property under false pretenses. 
  • Using threats or coercion to obtain property. 

Types of Theft Charges

The state defines several categories of theft offenses, with penalties varying based on factors like the value of stolen items or a defendant’s criminal history. Examples include: 

  • Level 6 Felony Theft – Charged when the value of the property is between $750 and $50,000.
  • Level 5 Felony Theft – Charged for higher-value thefts of assets worth more than $50,000.

Penalties for Theft Convictions

A theft conviction carries penalties that extend far beyond jail time and fines. Potential consequences may include probation, restitution to victims and long-term challenges like difficulty obtaining employment or housing. Repeated offenders often face harsher punishments. For example, someone with a prior theft conviction may face felony upgrades for otherwise minor charges. A seemingly minor conviction can quickly snowball into a life-altering ordeal, making prompt legal assistance important. 

How the Paul Rossi Law Offices Can Help

At the Paul Rossi Law Offices, we believe that every client deserves a dedicated defense. We understand that being accused of theft is often overwhelming, which is why we are here to support you every step of the way. Our attorneys take a personalized, compassionate approach to build a strategy tailored to your case’s unique needs. 

Building a Strong Defense

Defending against theft charges requires more than knowledge of the law—it takes experience, attention to detail and tenacity. Our team investigates every aspect of your case to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims. From analyzing evidence like surveillance footage to interviewing witnesses, we ensure no detail goes overlooked. 

Some potential defenses we may explore include proving mistaken identity, demonstrating that you had the owner’s consent, or showing that the prosecution lacks enough evidence for a conviction. By crafting a robust defense grounded in the specific details of your case, we aim for the best outcome, whether that’s a dismissal, a plea agreement or acquittal at trial. 

Contact the Paul Rossi Law Offices Today

Theft charges can upend your life, but you don’t have to face them alone. With a proven track record of success and a client-first approach, the Paul Rossi Law Offices is committed to protecting your rights and your future. Contact us today to begin. Trust our experienced team to get you through this challenging time.

FAQs About Theft in Indiana

What Constitutes Theft Under Indiana Law?

Under Indiana law, theft is defined as intentionally taking another’s property without consent, with the intent to permanently deprive them of its value or use. This definition extends beyond simple shoplifting, encompassing acts such as unauthorized taking of property, fraudulent credit or debit card use, permanent withholding of borrowed items or obtaining property through deception, threats or coercion.

What Are the Different Levels of Theft Charges in Indiana?

In Indiana, theft charges are classified based on the value of the stolen property. As the value of the property increases, so does the severity of the charge and its corresponding penalties. These charges can range from misdemeanors for lower-value items to serious felonies for higher-value assets, which carry significant legal consequences and the potential for severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

What Penalties Could I Face if Convicted of Theft?

The consequences of a theft conviction extend well beyond jail time and fines. Potential penalties include probation requirements, mandatory restitution payments to victims and long-term challenges such as difficulty obtaining employment or securing housing. These collateral consequences can persist long after you’ve served your sentence, making it crucial to mount an effective defense from the outset.

Can Prior Theft Convictions Affect New Charges?

Previous theft convictions significantly impact how prosecutors and judges handle new charges against you. Someone with a prior theft conviction may face felony upgrades for otherwise minor charges, meaning what might have been a misdemeanor for a first-time offender becomes a felony with enhanced penalties. Repeated offenders consistently face harsher punishments, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

How Does an Attorney Defend Against Theft Charges?

Several defense strategies may apply to your theft case depending on the specific circumstances. Common defenses include proving mistaken identity, demonstrating that you had the property owner’s consent or showing that the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence for a conviction. Our experienced team thoroughly investigates each case to determine which defense approach offers the best chance of success.

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We sit down with you privately to fully understand your situation, your fears and what you hope to achieve. We are responsive and answer all inquiries with the utmost sensitivity to your case.

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Our team is with you every step of the way, no matter how difficult the road ahead. We share your goals and use all resources at our disposal to provide dependable representation.

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Hard work is foundational to what we achieve at our firm. We work relentlessly to serve you however we can during your time of need. Our work ethic guides us as your legal advocates.

Contact us today for a case evaluation.

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WITH EACH & EVERY CASE WE HANDLE.

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