Theft Defense Attorney In Red Hook
Outside of drunk driving, theft crimes are some of the most common types of criminal charges that a person can face. That doesn’t mean that a theft charge is simple or minor, but the term covers a huge range of actions, all of which will require a tough, no-nonsense lawyer to fight. And that’s what we offer.
At the Law Offices of Michael Pollok, PLLC, our experienced theft defense lawyers will fight hard for you. They have the legal experience to know exactly how hard to fight every aspect of any criminal charge against you. They have a track record of getting the results that our clients need to move on after receiving one of these charges.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Michael Pollok, PLLC, For Your Theft Defense?
Our lawyers are dedicated and compassionate, fully understanding the seriousness of the charges and, therefore, the types of struggles our clients endure in any criminal case. They also know all too well that the tactics used by the police and prosecution can feel dehumanizing.
The fact is, you are innocent until proven guilty, but you are hardly ever treated that way when you’re facing investigation. The police treat you like you will be in jail when they’re through with you. But, you are entitled to – and deserve – a thorough, experienced defense. We provide that for charges such as the following:
- Unlawful entry
- Shoplifting
- Armed robbery
- Burglary
As your defense attorneys, our lawyers will stand between you and the police and make sure that they are respecting your rights. Our attorneys will force them to work to prove their case, because that’s our team’s job and duty to you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges
If you have questions about your upcoming case, let us know. In addition to the charge and the details of the allegations, many factors involved will be specific to you and your situation. Our lawyers won’t be able to tell you exactly what may happen until they know all the facts. But to get you started, below are answers to common questions that our team receives.
What is the legal difference between theft, burglary and robbery?
Theft is strictly a property crime involving a person taking goods that do not belong to them. If the value of those goods is under $1,000, then they’ll receive a misdemeanor petty larceny charge; if it is over that amount, then it will be charged as grand larceny, which is a felony.
Robbery is the taking of goods with the use or threat of force. It is always a felony charge, but it can be aggravated if it involves the use of a weapon, in which case the penalties greatly increase.
Burglary is the breaking and entering of a premises with the intent to commit a crime. That crime does not necessarily have to be theft of any type.
Can burglary or robbery charges be reduced if no weapon was used and no property was taken?
Typically, any charge can be reduced if the right circumstances are met. The lack of a weapon and a first-time offense can be factors considered to reduce a charge. Another potential factor that can make this work in your favor is our team’s aggressive stance in suppressing evidence against our clients, when possible. If we make the prosecution work hard enough, there is a strong chance that it will pursue an “easier” option.
What happens if I honestly believed that the property I took belonged to me or that I had permission?
This is a valid defense because intent to commit a crime is a vital piece of the DNA of a theft crime. If you believed that the property was yours or that you had permission, then you had no intent to commit a crime. Still, you may have to go a long way to prove it before the charges resolve. But our lawyers will fight for you at every step.
Get Your Defense Started
Even if you have an effective defense against the charges against you, the best way to try to make sure it’s properly put into place is to have a strong, dedicated attorney on your side. Our attorneys care about our clients and fight for their rights while striving to get them the outcomes they need. Reach out to us today to learn more by calling 845-406-9349 or sending an email.