When you have been accused of theft, you may not initially take the charges against you seriously. However, Arizona issues harsh criminal penalties against thieves, and your entire future could be in jeopardy. It is crucial that you take your defense strategy seriously if you hope to clear your name and criminal record.
Turn to a top-rated Glendale theft crimes lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices when you need in-depth insight and powerful legal advocacy on your side. Our team of former prosecutors can help you understand the strength of the case against you and formulate a compelling defense strategy.
Consult a highly experienced Glendale criminal defense lawyer from our firm 24/7 to schedule your confidential consultation.
You Have Rights When Facing Glendale Theft Crimes Charges
Your Miranda rights describe the rights you have when you have been detained or arrested by law enforcement officials. You may have heard different variations of Miranda rights over the years. However, the primary rights you have, including:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney
- A warning that anything you say can and will be used against you
When you exercise your right to remain silent, the police cannot continue questioning you. When you ask for an attorney, police cannot continue questioning you unless you have your Glendale theft crimes attorney present. When law enforcement officials violate your constitutional rights, we may be able to get the charges against you dismissed or certain types of evidence that may have been unlawfully obtained suppressed.
The District Attorney Has a Limited Amount of Time to File Burglary Charges
The prosecutor will need to file formal criminal charges against you before the statute of limitations runs out. However, the statute of limitations for your theft crime will be based on whether you are facing charges at the misdemeanor or felony level.
According to ARS § 13-107, the statute of limitations for misdemeanor theft is one year from the date the alleged crime occurred, while the statute of limitations for felony theft is seven years from the date the alleged crime was committed.
However, the statute of limitations will pause its countdown if you leave the state, the district attorney is unaware of the perpetrator’s identity, or the accused does not have a “reasonably ascertainable place of abode” within Arizona.
It should also be noted that certain types of theft crimes do not have a statute of limitations. If you were accused of a felony involving falsifying public records or the misuse of public money, the state can file charges at any time.
Glendale Theft Crimes FAQ
What does “Beyond a Reasonable Doubt” Mean?
“Beyond a reasonable doubt” is the burden of proof that must be met for the jury to return a conviction. If the jury finds the defendant guilty of the theft crime in question, it should be because the prosecution has introduced evidence that proves the defendant‘s guilt, so much so that any reasonable person has no doubt of the defendant’s guilt. While the burden of proof in criminal cases is high, unfortunately, this standard is not always followed.
While you should be considered innocent until proven guilty, in the court of public opinion, you could be guilty before you have even had a chance to defend yourself.
Having a reputable Glendale burglary defense lawyer from Suzuki Law Offices working for you could make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
The jury may believe you are guilty before the prosecution has even presented its case, but our team will do everything possible to introduce reasonable doubt in the mind of the judge and jury through our compelling defense strategy.
Can I Plead Guilty and Then Get My Record Expunged?
Ultimately, the decision regarding how to proceed with your theft crimes defense is up to you. We may recommend negotiating a plea agreement or entering pretrial diversion as opposed to pleading guilty.
Arizona does allow certain types of criminal convictions to be expunged as described under ARS § 13-911, but there is no guarantee that the judge will grant your petition for expungement.
It may not be in your best interest to plead guilty due to the harsh criminal consequences that may follow. The collateral consequences of a theft crime may continue to follow you as long as the conviction remains on your record. If you were counting on expungement but the judge or district attorney objects, you may find your life further impacted by your guilty plea.
Is Theft a Wobbler Crime?
Yes, theft may be considered a wobbler crime. Whether you are charged at the misdemeanor or felony level will be based on the value of the goods or services you are accused of stealing. For less expensive property or services, you could be charged with a misdemeanor, especially if mitigating factors are present.
However, if you are charged with theft of high-value goods or services, you are more likely to face felony-level charges. If the use of a deadly weapon, threat, or force was involved, or other aggravating factors were present, charges could also be elevated to the felony level.
Your Glendale armed robbery defense lawyer will work to reduce your charges wherever possible to minimize the risk of penalties, including fines and jail time.
Meet With a Reputable Theft Crimes Lawyer in Glendale for Help Today
For over 30 years, Suzuki Law Offices have helped the innocent and accused avoid the devastating criminal penalties that follow a conviction. Whether we can help you secure a plea agreement, enter pretrial diversion, or present a compelling defense strategy at trial, you can rest easier knowing our legal team is safeguarding your future.
When your freedom is on the line, you do not have time to waste. Trusting a public defender who may not be able to give your defense the attention it deserves could be one of the worst mistakes of your life.
Instead, turn to a highly skilled theft crimes attorney in Glendale from our firm, who can provide your defense with the resources and dedication you need to get back to your life. Fill out our secured contact form or call our office to schedule your confidential consultation as soon as today.
Call or text (602) 682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form