Theft Charges in Mount Vernon? Our Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Defend You
Theft charges can be quite serious for Mount Vernon residents, so having an aggressive and experienced theft attorney in your corner is a must. Theft charges and the penalties assessed by Washington courts for individuals found guilty of theft can be significant and life-changing.
Even offenses that seem minor—such as shoplifting or petty theft—can come with severe consequences, depending on the total amount of the theft, related losses, and your criminal history.
At Washington Criminal Attorneys, PLLC, our criminal defense team works hard to lessen the penalties and restitution requirements in your Mount Vernon theft case and help you get your life back on track.
Mount Vernon Criminal Defense Attorneys: Aggressive Representation in Skagit County
Being charged with theft causes irreparable damage to your reputation and establishes a criminal record that can haunt you for years to come. A competent and well-seasoned criminal defense attorney, who understands the Mount Vernon court system and the tendencies of prosecutors, judges, and other court staff, can help you navigate your case and make things go as smoothly as possible. Our team leverages its great knowledge of state-specific laws, sentencing guidelines, and other knowledge to help formulate a strategy in your case.
Our Skagit County criminal defense attorneys understand that you have many questions and worries for your future when facing any type of theft charge. We pride ourselves on helping you understand the charges against you, the potential consequences you face, such as fines and jail time, and the collateral implications of a theft conviction in areas of your life, such as housing, employment, and immigration status.
A Tailored Defense Strategy for Your Skagit County Case
When developing the defense approach for your theft case in Mount Vernon, Skagit County, our team’s top goal is protecting your rights by ensuring that the arresting officer followed all mandated procedures while questioning you, gathering evidence against you, and during the actual arrest itself.
If not, we’re ready to file motions asking for suppression of unlawful evidence or dismissal based on law enforcement’s failure to follow the required protocol. Potential theft defenses vary based on the type of alleged theft, circumstances surrounding your case, and evidence against you. Defenses such as mistaken identity, lack of intent, entrapment, and coercion are sometimes successful.
Our job is to analyze the case against you, looking for any weaknesses. We also interview any witnesses or gather evidence in support of your defense. Our team may also bring in or consult experts when necessary.
In many cases, our Mount Vernon theft crimes attorneys can negotiate with the prosecution to try to reduce the charges against you. We always advocate for alternative sentencing options, such as probation or other diversion programs.
Degrees of Theft Charges and Their Penalties in Washington State
The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 9A.56 categorizes theft into three degrees based on the value of stolen items, including both property and services. Only one of these is a gross misdemeanor—theft in the third degree—which involves theft up to $750 and is punishable by up to 364 days in jail and up to $5,000 in fines.
In Washington, theft in the second degree is a class C felony. It involves theft of more than $750 but less than $5,000 and is punishable by up to 5 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. Theft in the first degree is a class B felony and involves theft of $5,000 or more in property or services. It is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $20,000.
It’s important to note that most, but not all, instances of shoplifting are punishable as gross misdemeanors. Based on the total value of the stolen goods, shoplifting falls under the same degrees of theft mentioned above.
Theft and Your Criminal Record
Theft convictions in Washington State remain on your permanent criminal record unless you take action to have them vacated. Potential employers, schools, landlords, and others can access your criminal record, which can negatively impact your chances of getting the job you want or even obtaining housing.
Suppose you complete all sentencing requirements and avoid any additional criminal convictions. In that case, both misdemeanor and felony theft charges may be expunged from your record under certain circumstances, as detailed under RCW 434-662.
In most instances, misdemeanor theft charges may be eligible for expungement after a three-year waiting period. In contrast, a waiting period of five to ten years is required for class B and class C felonies, among other requirements.
Statute of Limitation on Theft
RCW 9A.04.080 outlines the statute of limitations on theft in Washington State. Typically, misdemeanor theft charges must be filed within one year of the date of the alleged theft, while felony theft may be prosecutable for up to three years of the date of the alleged offense. However, theft involving the deception of vulnerable adults may be punishable up to six years after the alleged commission of the offense or its discovery.
Restitution in Theft Cases
Restitution for losses in theft cases in Washington State is usually part of the sentence for convicted individuals, as outlined under RCW 9.94A.750. The court generally requires restitution payable through the court clerk with civil enforcement for nonpayment.
Washington State Grand Theft Charges
The RCW doesn’t specify charges for so-called “grand theft,” although some people use the term colloquially for both first and second-degree felony thefts in Washington. Notably, some stolen items are prosecuted as felonious theft without regard to their value, including motor vehicles and weapons. The RCW states under 9A.56.065 that the theft of a motor vehicle is a class B felony.
What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of Theft
If you’ve been charged with theft or find yourself under investigation for theft, remember to exercise your right to remain silent until you seek out a competent Washington criminal defense attorney who can be present during questioning.
Anything you say, even if you’re simply trying to explain your side of the situation leading to your arrest, can be used against you by the prosecution in your case. It’s important to have a theft attorney in Mount Vernon present during all stages of your case to help preserve your rights in your Skagit County theft case.
Advocating for You: Criminal Theft Defense Attorneys in Mount Vernon
Although being charged with theft is frightening, embarrassing, and frustrating, having the right legal team on your side is paramount to getting the best possible resolution as your case moves from arrest or indictment through arraignment, hearings, trial or plea bargain negotiation, and sentencing.
Count on the experienced, trusted team at Washington Criminal Attorneys, PLLC, to serve as staunch advocates for you during this difficult period of your life. We prioritize providing every client with the best defense possible. Theft is a serious charge that requires a specific legal approach.
Remember: your freedom, liberty, and future are at stake when you’re facing criminal charges. Contact our Washington State defense lawyers now for a consultation.
