Memphis Theft Crime Defense Attorney

Defending Your Rights & Freedom

If you or someone you love has been arrested for a theft crime, contact Francavilla Law Firm so that we can begin formulating a strong defense against your charges. The sooner you get in touch with us, the better, as valuable evidence tends to get lost overtime. In addition, we can ensure that you do not say anything to law enforcement that could be used against you in court.

Non-violent acts of theft, or those which do not cause or threaten physical injury, are often referred to as white collar crimes, including fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft.

Call (901) 979-9992 or contact us online for a free consultation with Memphis theft case lawyer, Tim Francavilla.

What is Theft?

According to Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39-14-103, theft charges can result when a person knowingly obtains or exercises control over another person’s property without their permission, with the intent to deprive that owner of their property. In other words, an individual commits theft when he takes someone else’s property and does not intend to give it back.

Types of Theft Offenses

The term “theft” is used to describe a wide variety of offenses that involve taking another’s property without permission, including:

• Petty larceny
• Grand larceny
• Shoplifting
• Bribery
• Writing bad checks
• Burglary
• Carjacking/auto theft
• Robbery/aggravated robbery
• Forgery
• Embezzlement
• Extortion
• Identity theft
• Counterfeiting
• Financial fraud
• Insider trading
• Money laundering

What are the Penalties for Theft Offenses in Tennessee?

Theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the property stolen. If during the commissioning of the crime there was the presence of violence, the threat of violence, or the use of a weapon, theft can be classified as a violent crime.

Theft crime classifications and penalties include:

• Class A misdemeanor – when the stolen property is worth $1,000 or less, it is punishable by a maximum fine of $2,500 and up to 11 months and 29 days in jail

• Class E felony – when the stolen property is worth between $1,000 to $2,500, it is punishable by a maximum fine of $3,000 and 1 to 6 years in prison

• Class D felony – when the stolen property is worth between $2,500 to $10,000, it is punishable by a maximum fine of $5,000 and 2 to 12 years in prison

• Class C felony – when the stolen property is worth between $10,000 and $60,000, it is punishable by a maximum fine of $10,000 and 3 to 15 years in prison

• Class B felony – when the stolen property is worth between $60,000 and $250,000, it is punishable by a maximum fine of $25,000 and 8 and 30 years in prison