Theft Crime Defense Lawyer in Columbus, GA

Being accused of any theft crime in Georgia can lead to serious consequences, impacting your freedom, finances, and future. In Columbus, our seasoned criminal defense attorney understands the nuances of Georgia's theft statutes and is prepared to build a strategic defense tailored to your unique situation. We represent clients facing a wide range of theft allegations, including:

Burglary Crimes (O.C.G.A. § 16-7-1)

In Georgia, burglary is not merely about stealing; it's defined by the unauthorized entry or remaining within a building, vehicle, railroad car, watercraft, or aircraft with the intent to commit a felony or theft inside. This means you don't even have to successfully take anything to be charged with burglary. Georgia law distinguishes between:

• Burglary in the First Degree: Involves entering or remaining in an occupied, unoccupied, or vacant dwelling house or any building/structure used as a dwelling with the intent to commit a felony or theft. This is a serious felony, carrying severe penalties including significant prison time.
• Burglary in the Second Degree: Applies to entering or remaining in an occupied, unoccupied, or vacant non-dwelling structure (like a business, vehicle, or warehouse) with the intent to commit a felony or theft. While still a felony, the penalties are generally less severe than First Degree Burglary.

Our defense strategy in burglary cases often involves scrutinizing the prosecution's evidence regarding unauthorized entry and, critically, proving intent.

Shoplifting Crimes (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14)

Shoplifting, a common theft offense, involves specific actions taken with the intent to deprive a merchant of the full value of merchandise. Under Georgia law, shoplifting can include:

• Concealing or taking possession of goods.
• Altering price tags or other price markings.
• Transferring goods from one container to another.
• Interchanging labels or price tags.
• Concealing unpurchased merchandise.

The severity of a shoplifting charge in Georgia largely depends on the value of the merchandise:

• Misdemeanor Shoplifting: Generally applies when the value of the stolen property is $500 or less.
• Felony Shoplifting: Occurs when the value of the stolen property exceeds $500. Additionally, multiple prior shoplifting convictions can elevate a misdemeanor to a felony, even if the value of the current theft is low.

A key element for the prosecution to prove is intent to steal. Our defense may focus on demonstrating a lack of intent or challenging the value of the merchandise.

Robbery Crimes (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-40)

Robbery in Georgia is a far more serious offense than simple theft because it involves taking property directly from another person, or their immediate presence, by certain means. Unlike other theft crimes, robbery involves a direct confrontation or threat to the victim. It can be committed:

• By use of force.
• By intimidation, threat, or coercion, or by placing the person in fear of immediate serious bodily injury.
• By sudden snatching.

The penalties for robbery are severe, and if a deadly weapon is used (even if not explicitly listed as "Armed Robbery," this can be an aggravating factor), the charges and penalties become even more stringent, often resulting in lengthy prison sentences. We meticulously examine the circumstances of the alleged "force" or "intimidation" to build a strong defense.

Theft by Taking (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2) - Including Auto Theft, Grand Theft, and Larceny

In Georgia, the general offense of Theft by Taking (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2) covers the unlawful taking of another's property with the intent to deprive them of it. Unlike some other states that use specific terms like "Grand Theft" or "Larceny," Georgia's law primarily distinguishes between misdemeanor and felony theft based on the value of the property stolen. This broad statute encompasses a wide array of scenarios, including what is commonly known as auto theft, or the theft of significant items often referred to as grand larceny.

• Misdemeanor Theft by Taking: When the value of the property is $1,500 or less.
• Felony Theft by Taking: When the value of the property exceeds $1,500. Penalties escalate significantly with higher property values.

Within this overarching category, we specifically defend cases involving:

• Auto Theft (Theft by Taking - Motor Vehicle): Stealing a vehicle is prosecuted under the general Theft by Taking statute. The severity of the charge and penalties depend on the vehicle's value, which determines whether it's charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Even "joyriding," where there's an intent to temporarily deprive the owner, can fall under this statute. Our defense involves challenging intent, identifying mistaken identity, or disputing the vehicle's valuation.
• Other Forms of Theft by Taking (commonly referred to as Grand Theft or Larceny): This includes the unlawful taking of anything from cash and electronics to personal belongings. Beyond direct taking, Georgia also defines other specific theft crimes under Chapter 8 of Title 16, which our firm also handles, such as:
• Theft by Deception (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-3): Obtaining property through deceitful means or artful practice with the intent to deprive the owner. This can involve false promises, misrepresentations, or preventing someone from acquiring relevant information.
• Theft by Conversion (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-4): Occurs when a person lawfully obtains property (e.g., leased, rented, or entrusted funds) but then unlawfully converts it to their own use, violating an agreement or legal obligation.
• Theft of Services (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-5): Obtaining services, accommodations, entertainment, or personal property only available for compensation, by deception and with the intent to avoid payment.

Our defense strategy for these theft charges focuses on undermining the prosecution's evidence of intent, disputing property value, challenging the means of acquisition, or demonstrating a lack of knowledge regarding the property's stolen nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do If I Am Charged with Theft in Columbus, GA?

If you are charged with theft in Columbus, GA, it is crucial to remain calm and refrain from making statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Immediately consult with a theft attorney in Columbus to discuss your case specifics and explore your defense options. Ted Morgan Law offers personalized consultations to help you understand the charges and construct a strategic defense plan.

Moreover, it's beneficial to begin gathering any related documents or evidence such as receipts, witness contacts, or surveillance footage that could support your defense. Engaging early with a seasoned attorney from Ted Morgan Law can significantly improve your chances for a favorable outcome by ensuring all critical materials are identified and utilized strategically in your defense.

Can Theft Charges Be Dismissed or Reduced?

Yes, theft charges can sometimes be dismissed or reduced through negotiation or by demonstrating insufficient evidence or procedural errors. Each case is unique; thus, an effective defense strategy tailored to the specific facts is crucial. Our team at Ted Morgan Law is dedicated to exploring all avenues to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.

Additionally, pretrial interventions such as conditional discharge programs or community service options might be available, potentially preventing a conviction from appearing on your record. Partner with Ted Morgan Law to explore these and other defensive measures that could mitigate long-term repercussions.

What Penalties Could I Face If Convicted of Theft?

Penalties for theft convictions in Georgia can include fines, restitution, community service, probation, and imprisonment. The severity depends on the theft’s classification (misdemeanor or felony) and any prior criminal history. With Ted Morgan Law by your side, we focus on minimizing these penalties through strong legal advocacy.

We also proactively address ancillary issues like restitution amounts or probation conditions to safeguard against overly burdensome penalties. Our advocacy extends beyond the courtroom as we work collaboratively with probation officers and relevant entities to tailor penalty terms that are reasonable and achievable.