Help from Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers
If you or someone you know has been arrested on charges of criminal theft, realize that such charges often can be successfully fought.
At the criminal defense law firm of Schatz, Anderson & Uday, LLC, we have successfully handled thousands of criminal cases on behalf of clients from throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City, Provo and Ogden. Our attorneys have more than 40 years' combined experience practicing criminal law. We have built a strong reputation as a law firm committed to aggressive advocacy to protect our clients' rights in the criminal justice system.
Avoiding Conviction on Theft Charges
There are two main ways to avoid conviction on theft charges. Which options might be available in any particular case will depend on the specific circumstances in play.
One way to avoid conviction is to fight the charges via a trial, aiming for a not-guilty verdict or dismissal of the charges. If the arrest involves a case of mistaken identification, or if the prosecuting attorney can't prove the case for any other reason, this may be a viable option.
In other serious theft cases, we frequently will dispute the alleged value of the property stolen, in order to reduce the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. Thefts are charged at different levels depending on the value of the stolen property — and the criminal penalties are markedly different at each level.
Finally, simple theft cases can often be resolved through a plea in abeyance, which is also sometimes called a suspended sentence. Your lawyer will argue for a suspended sentence, which means that you will have to complete a required education course about the consequences of theft, repay the value of the stolen property, and complete a period of probation. If you successfully complete the terms of your suspended sentence, then the sentence is removed and your criminal record remains clear.
Questions about Criminal Defense in a Theft Case?
We encourage you to contact Schatz, Anderson & Uday, LLC, for a free and confidential appointment with one of our lawyers to discuss your case. To make an appointment, call toll free 866-604-3696 or send us an e-mail.
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