If you were accused of theft or another property crime, it’s easy to feel nervous about the legal process. You may be worried about prison time, hefty fines, and even the loss of your reputation. Our Auburn property crimes lawyers can fight for your future.
At NextLaw, our defense attorneys are exclusively former prosecutors with over 100 combined jury trials to their credit. Our Auburn criminal defense lawyers fight for our clients’ best interests.
Call Dan Next today to talk to our legal team about your case.
What is a Property Crime?
Property crimes cover a large range of criminal offenses, such as:
- Burglary: The act of unlawfully entering a building to commit a crime. You do not need to have stolen something to be charged with burglary if a prosecutor can prove that you intended to steal something.
- Theft: Taking someone else’s property or money without permission.
- Vandalism or malicious mischief: The intentional destruction of someone else’s (or public) property.
- Possession of stolen property: Intentionally keeping property that you bought (or were given) while knowing that it was stolen.
- Trespassing: Entering private property even though you do not have permission to do so.
- Motor vehicle theft: Taking a vehicle that belongs to someone else.
Each type of property crime brings its own potential penalties.
For a free legal consultation with a property crimes lawyer serving Auburn, call (253) 238-2558
What is the Punishment for Property Crimes in Auburn?
The potential punishment for a property crime depends on the type of crime that you are alleged to have committed. Typically, there is a division between destruction of property and theft of property.
Property Theft Crimes
This includes the intent to steal property. The exact charge generally depends on the value of the property being stolen and any aggravating circumstances, such as a prior criminal conviction. Examples include:
- First-degree theft: First-degree theft is a Class B felony charge for the stealing of property (or services) valued at more than $5,000. Potential penalties include up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000.
- Second-degree theft: Second-degree theft is a Class C felony charge involving property or services valued at more than $750 and less than $5,000. Potential penalties include up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Third-degree theft: Third-degree theft is a misdemeanor charge for stolen property or services under $750. It is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
Property Damage Crimes
Similar to theft-based crimes, the value of the property that is damaged determines the exact charge. For example:
- First-degree or second-degree malicious mischief: This is typically a felony charge, but the class depends on the exact value of the damaged property. It can carry up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.
- Third-degree malicious mischief: For property valued under $750, you will typically be charged with a misdemeanor. This carries penalties of up to 364 days in jail and a fine of up to $5,000.
Are There Other Impacts of a Property Crime Charge on Your Life?
Yes, property crime convictions can have other impacts on your life. These negative impacts can include:
- Probation.
- Effects on immigration status.
- Harder to find work or housing.
- Effects on your ability to get federal loans for school.
- Loss of professional licenses.
- Social stigma.
- Can impact child custody or visitation rights.
Auburn Property Crimes Lawyer Near Me
Call: (253) 238-2558How Can a Property Crimes Lawyer in Auburn Help With Your Case?
If you’re facing a criminal charge, it’s a stressful and frightening time. You may be unsure if you’ll get jail time or how you could afford potential fines. The legal team at NextLaw is here to fight for the best possible outcome for you and your case.
We can:
- Investigate and gather evidence to build a strong defense.
- Analyze the prosecution’s case, looking for any violations of your rights during an arrest or evidence gathering.
- Tailor our defense strategy to the specifics of your case.
- Represent your case in court.
- Advocate for a lesser charge or minimum sentence, when necessary.
Our case results include dismissals and not guilty verdicts. Our client testimonials speak to our professionalism and commitment to our clients:
- “If there were more stars available, I would give them.”
- “We were very happy with the excellent counsel and representation we received from Dan and his team. Our case was complex and challenging, involving 3 different county courts and sentencing and some unexpected twists and turns. Through it all, we were in frequent communication with Dan and his team, seeking advice and understanding about pending court appearances and sentencing.”
- “I felt very confident with his strong knowledge of the law and aggressive approach in representing my case.”
Click to contact our Auburn Criminal Defense Lawyers today
What Evidence Can Be Used Against You In Property Crime Cases?
Evidence in property crime cases can include:
- Witness testimony.
- Video footage, such as from security cameras.
- Forensic evidence, including your fingerprints on stolen goods.
- Police reports and testimony from arresting officers.
- Financial records, such as those proving stolen items were sold.
- Digital communications, including text messages and emails.
- The stolen goods.
- Photographs of property damage.
- Your own admissions during your arrest or questioning.
If we discover that evidence was secured with a proper warrant, we will fight to have it dismissed.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Contact a Property Crimes Attorney in Auburn Today
Don’t struggle through the stress and worry of a property crime arrest; contact NextLaw as soon as possible. Our Auburn property crimes attorneys will fight for your freedom through a carefully built defense strategy.
Call Dan Next today to schedule a consultation. We’re ready to listen to your story, explain the charges against you, and help you take your next steps with confidence.
Call or text (253) 238-2558 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form