Worcester County Theft Lawyer
Facing a Worcester County theft charge can be difficult-but you don't have to do it alone. Having an aggressive and experienced local defense lawyer on your side doesn't only put your mind at ease, it helps ensure your rights are protected and your best interests are looked after at every stage of the criminal justice process.
Theft charges are common. One reason for this is that many different criminal acts can be considered thefts. Sure, shoplifting is a theft. But so is failing to return something at an appointed time, not paying for a service provided, using the identity of another for financial gain, and even finding an abandoned or lost item and not making an effort to find the rightful owner.
What Should You Do?
When you are arrested on a theft charge or if you are questioned as part of an ongoing investigation, the police will want you to share information with them. But, you don't have to. When they say (and even before they say), "You have a right to remain silent", they mean it. An experienced criminal defense lawyer would recommend you invoke that right immediately, refusing to answer questions and contacting an attorney instead. You see, although the police may come off as being helpful and friendly, they are building a case and you are the subject of this case.
Worcester County Theft Penalties
Theft laws in Worcester County outline the penalty you might face by determining the value of the goods or services you are accused of stealing.
- If the value is less than $100, you face up to 90 days in jail.
- If the value is less than $1,000, you face up to 18 months in jail.
- If the value is $1,000 or more, you face up to 15 years in prison.
- If you are accused of theft of a vehicle, you face up to 5 years in prison.
Far beyond jail or prison time, Worcester County theft charges can affect your ability to get a job and provide for your family. To avoid the worst penalties, contact our attorneys today to discuss how they might be able to help you reach a favorable outcome in court.