Johnson City Theft Crime Lawyer

Defending Clients Facing Theft Charges in Tennessee

If you or someone you know has been charged with theft in Tennessee, it's crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced attorney as soon as possible. At Meade Law Group, our skilled Johnson City theft crime attorneys have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against theft charges. We understand the severity of these charges and the potential consequences, so we are committed to providing personalized and aggressive representation to each client. Whether you're facing misdemeanor or felony theft charges, we are here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.

Are you facing theft charges in Tennessee? Call Meade Law Group today at (423) 464-7779 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our theft crime attorney in Johnson City!

What is Theft in Tennessee?

Theft in Tennessee is defined as intentionally taking or exercising control over someone else's property without their permission, intending to deprive them of that property. Theft is largely charged on the basis of intent as it must be proven that the theft was made with intention. Tennessee law recognizes several degrees of theft, including theft of property, theft of services, theft of trade secrets, and theft of merchandise from a retail store. Each of these degrees carries its specific penalties.

Common Forms of Theft

Common forms of theft include:

• Shoplifting
• Carjacking
• Burglary
• Armed Robbery
• Robbery
• Embezzlement
• Larceny
• Money Laundering
• Credit Card Fraud
• Identity Theft

One error in judgment can result in a very serious charge when it comes to theft, which is graded based on the value of the items taken. Often, the victim of an alleged theft will trump up the actual value of the items in question, and in so doing, the defendant winds up being overcharged.

Meade Law Group has the resources and know-how to get to the bottom of the true value of the items and can use that information to aggressively defend your theft charge. Our team of Johnson City theft crime attorneys are committed to working with you and the courts and ensuring that your rights are defended zealously.

What Are The Penalties for Theft in Tennessee?

The penalties for theft in Tennessee depend on several factors, including the value of the property stolen, the type of property stolen, and whether the offender has any prior convictions. Here's an overview of the penalties for theft in Tennessee:

Misdemeanor Theft: Theft of property worth less than $1,000 is generally considered a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Felony Theft: Theft of property worth more than $1,000 is considered a felony in Tennessee. The penalties for felony theft depend on the value of the property stolen:

• Theft of property worth $1,000 to $2,499 is a Class E felony, punishable by one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.
• Theft of property worth $2,500 to $9,999 is a Class D felony, punishable by two to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
• Theft of property worth $10,000 to $59,999 is a Class C felony, punishable by three to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Theft of property worth $60,000 to $249,999 is a Class B felony, punishable by eight to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Theft of property worth $250,000 or more is a Class A felony, punishable by 15 to 60 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000.

Aggravated Theft: Certain aggravating factors can increase the severity of a theft charge, such as theft involving a firearm or theft of property from a person 65 or older. Aggravated theft charges can result in enhanced penalties, including mandatory minimum sentences.

It's important to note that these penalties are just a general overview and may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. If you are facing theft charges in Tennessee, it's crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced Johnson City theft crime attorney who can help you understand the potential penalties and build a strong defense against them.

Defenses to Theft Charges in Tennessee

If you are facing theft charges in Tennessee, several defenses may be available to you. Here are some common defenses to theft charges in Tennessee:

• Lack of intent: Theft requires the intent to deprive someone of their property. This could be a viable defense if you did not intend to steal the property or believed that you had a right to take it.
• Mistake of fact: If you took the property under the mistaken belief that you had a right to it or that it belonged to you, this could be a defense to theft charges.
• Consent: If the property owner permitted you to take or use it in a certain way, this could be a defense against theft charges.
• Duress: If you were forced to take the property under threat of harm, this could be a defense to theft charges.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement officials induced you to commit the theft, this could be a defense to theft charges.
• Lack of evidence: The prosecution must prove each element of the theft charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to support the charge, this could be a defense.

These are just a few of Tennessee's possible defenses to theft charges. The specific defense strategy that is best for you will depend on the facts of your case. Working with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can evaluate your case and help you build a strong defense against the charges is essential.

Contact Our Johnson City Theft Crime Attorney Today

If you are facing theft charges in Tennessee, seeking legal advice from an experienced lawyer who can help you understand your rights and build a strong defense against the charges is crucial. At Meade Law Group, our Johnson City theft crime lawyers have extensive experience representing clients in theft cases. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today to get started!

Contact Meade Law Group today to schedule a FREE consultation with our theft crime lawyer in Johnson City!