Goose Creek Theft Lawyer

Allegations of theft in Goose Creek can take on many forms. It is illegal to take the property of another person or company without the owner’s permission. However, state law also prohibits actions that may lead up to a theft and the receipt of goods that a person has reason to believe are stolen. Because of this, it is important to approach any theft charge with an understanding of the law and the ability to fully investigate the matter at hand.

A Goose Creek theft lawyer could provide this essential support. A committed defense attorney aims to help people like you to understand their case, identify any evidence that could help to defeat a prosecutor’s charges, and protect your legal rights at every stage of the legal process.

Theft Offenses in Goose Creek

The State’s criminal code does not mention the term “theft.” Instead, the law refers to the unlawful taking of the property of another as a larceny. The basic version of this law is called petit larceny. Under South Carolina Code § 16-13-30, petit larceny may apply when the alleged theft involves property with a value of $2,000 or less. Convictions here are misdemeanors and authorize a court to impose a jail sentence of up to one year or a fine of a maximum of $1,000.

If the value of the property in the case rises, so too does the potential punishment. Alleged thefts involving property with a value of more than $2,000 are examples of grand larceny. These are felony cases where a court can sentence a guilty party to up to ten years in prison. The seriousness of a charge may also increase when examining the type of property involved in the event. For instance, the alleged theft of firearms or motor vehicles can bring enhanced penalties. A Goose Creek theft attorney could help an individual understand the specific larceny charges they are facing and the associated penalties.

Possible Defenses in Theft Cases

Every criminal case places the burden on a prosecutor to prove each element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that it is helpful for defendants facing these charges to understand these elements and discover evidence that aims to fight back against a prosecutor’s case.

One common defense in theft cases is to argue that the transfer of property was consensual. This may be applicable when there is evidence of a sale or an agreement to swap items. Similarly, courts can only convict a defendant in a theft case if the prosecutor can prove that the defendant intended to take the property in question. If there is a genuine question concerning the rightful ownership of the property, this may be sufficient to create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors. A theft lawyer in Goose Creek could take the lead to evaluate a prosecutor’s case and develop a tailored defense.

Reach Out to a Goose Creek Theft Attorney Today

The courts in Goose Creek take every allegation of theft seriously. Even if it is your first time in court and the items involved have a minimal value, a conviction will create a criminal record and could force you to spend time in jail. More serious accusations are felonies and can bring a multiple-year prison sentence.

A Goose Creek theft lawyer could be able to help you to avoid this outcome. We stand by your side to explain the laws that control your case and evaluate the strength of the prosecutor’s evidence. Armed with this information, we could help to form a reasonable plea deal that lessens a potential punishment or bring a case to trial that aims to create reasonable doubt in the minds of jurors. Schedule a free consultation today to get started on your case.