Orland Park Theft Defense Attorney

Property Crimes Lawyer for Misdemeanor or Felony Theft Charges

The offense of theft is not just "taking something that does not belong to you." Theft may encompass a wide variety of acts that could amount to stealing something. Theft can be a simple taking of someone else's property, but it can also be done by deception (for example, person A may agree to sell person B's jewelry, but person A may keep the jewelry for themselves) or by threat (for example, person A may tell person B to turn over money or person A will hurt person B). As is the case with all crimes, the burden is on the state to prove each element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.

If you are accused of theft, it is crucial to understand your legal options and have a strong defense strategy in place. At Issa Law, LLC, we understand the gravity of theft charges and the impact they can have on your life. Attorney Issa is dedicated to providing comprehensive criminal defense services to help defend against theft charges or other offenses, and he will work to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the legal process.

Theft Charges and Penalties in Illinois

Theft is defined under Illinois law as the unlawful taking of another person's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The specific penalties that may apply if a person is convicted of theft charges will depend largely on the value of the property involved. Other factors may also play a role in a case, such as whether the theft was committed using force or deception. In general, the following penalties may apply if a person is convicted of theft:

• Theft of $500 or Less: This offense is typically charged as a Class A misdemeanor. The penalties for a conviction include up to 364 days in jail. Probation may be possible.
• Theft of Between $500 and $10,000: In these cases, theft is usually charged as a Class 3 felony, and a conviction carries penalties that include two to five years in prison. Probation may be possible.
• Theft of Between $10,000 and $100,000: This type of theft is typically charged as a Class 2 felony, which is punishable by three to seven years in prison. Probation may be possible.
• Theft of Between $100,000 and $1,000,000: This offense is charged as a Class 1 felony, one of the most serious non-homicide charges under Illinois law. Penalties include four to 15 years in prison, and probation may be possible.
• Theft of More Than $1,000,000: This is a Class X felony offense, which may lead to a prison sentence of six to 30 years. Probation will not be possible.

Certain factors may increase the severity of charges. Theft from a school, a church or other place of worship, or a government facility or theft of property directly from a person will usually lead to enhanced penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

Theft by Deception

Accusations of obtaining control over someone else's property by intentionally misrepresenting a fact or concealing information to induce the victim to part with their property may lead to serious penalties. This can occur in various contexts, including:

• A person who obtains money or property worth at least $5,000 from a person over the age of 60 may be charged with a Class 2 felony.
• A person who claims to be a landlord or agent in order to fraudulently receive rent payments or security deposits of less than $500 may be charged with a Class 2 felony. In cases involving payments of $500 to $10,000, a person may be charged with a Class 2 felony. If a person collects payments valued between $10,000 and $100,000, they may be charged with a Class 1 felony. For cases involving payments of over $100,000, a person may face Class X felony charges.

Contact Our Tinley Park Theft Charges Lawyer

Our criminal defense attorney can help you respond to claims that you have committed theft. To learn how we can help you defend against criminal charges, contact us at 708-966-2408 and arrange a consultation.