Utah Theft Defense Attorneys

Our defense attorneys can protect your rights

Most of us are taught that stealing is a socially and morally unacceptable behavior, and that lesson is reinforced throughout our lives by family, school and religious education. Some people, however, never learned the lesson ― or, they chose to disregard it. Theft is a crime. Utah Code 76−6−404 defines theft as, “when a person obtains or exercises unauthorized control over the property of another with a purpose to deprive him thereof.”

Committing theft simply means taking the property of someone else, unlawfully, with the intent of not returning it to its owner. If someone has stolen from you and has not been arrested, a skilled Utah theft defense lawyer may be your best advocate. If you are charged with theft, seeking a knowledgeable Utah criminal law attorney can help protect your legal rights. If you are charged with theft, contact the knowledgeable and aggressive attorneys at Brass & Cordova.

Understanding theft ― levels of offense

From shoplifting a pack of gum to stealing a rare antique, the crime of theft is classified according to the value of the property or service. The penalties for theft crimes increase progressively by the value of the property stolen:

  • Less than $500 is a Class B misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000 and jail time of up to six months.
  • More than $500 but less than $1500 is a Class A misdemeanor with a fine of up to $2,500 and jail time of up to one year.
  • More than $1,500 but less than $5,000 is a third-degree felony with a fine of up to $5,000 and jail time of up to five years.
  • More than $5,000 is a second-degree felony and it involves theft with a weapon and a fine of up to $10,000 and jail time of up to fifteen years.

Variations of theft crimes

The criminal code of Utah contains penalties for a variety of theft crimes defined by the things stolen or the method used, including:

  • Deception
  • Extortion
  • Vehicles
  • Services
  • Firearm
  • Utility or cable services
  • Fuel
  • Receiving stolen property
  • Retail theft (shoplifting)

Whether you require a Utah felony theft defense attorney or a criminal defense lawyer, seeking knowledgeable legal representation may be your best hope for the successful outcome of your case.

Finding an experienced theft defense attorney in Utah

If you or a loved one has been charged with theft, it is in your best interest to retain legal counsel. In many cases, particularly if it is your first offense, the charges may be argued down or even eliminated, thus avoiding a criminal conviction on your record. Please contact Brass & Cordova today at 801.322.5678 or online.