Columbia Theft Lawyer

Columbia Theft Attorney

South Carolina takes theft charges very seriously. There are many different degrees of theft in the state. Depending on the details and circumstances of your case, you could be looking at a wide range of potential consequences that range anywhere from a minor fine to significant prison time. If you do not mount a strong defense and work hard to clear your name, you could suffer severe penalties. A Columbia theft lawyer can figure out a strategy to seek the most beneficial outcome for your case.

Dealing with theft charges can be overwhelming, especially if you are accused of stealing property that’s highly valued. If you do not find yourself an experienced, reputable criminal defense lawyer, there is a strong chance you are going to suffer the full extent of the penalties ahead of you. The legal team at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III can mount a strong defense strategy and avoid a criminal record that could negatively affect your future.

Theft Charges in South Carolina

According to information gathered by the South Carolina State Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the rate for larceny crimes in the state in 2023 was 170.31. That means there were over 91,000 reported crimes of larceny in the state that year. Larceny includes shoplifting, pickpocketing, petty theft, and, most importantly, various theft crimes. In Richland County alone, the number of reported larceny crimes exceeded 9,500, with a clearance rate of only 11%.

If you are facing criminal charges for theft, you may be feeling overwhelmed and quite terrified of your immediate future. However, your attorney in Columbia can provide guidance and reassurance throughout your case. If your case goes to trial, it will likely take place at the Columbia Municipal Court.

The crime of theft is committed when one person takes something that doesn’t belong to them with the intentions of never giving it back. To secure a conviction, the prosecutor has to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, and that can be more difficult than it seems. Above all, the prosecutor must prove intent. If they can’t prove intent, they will have a difficult time securing your conviction. Your lawyer doesn’t even need to prove your innocence. They just have to introduce reasonable doubt.

Getting Arrested on Theft Charges

Getting arrested for theft can be an embarrassing and humiliating moment for you, especially if you are arrested in front of your friends, family, or work colleagues. When the handcuffs are slapped onto your wrist, you may understandably feel like you’ve already lost. It can be hard to feel optimistic about your chances at that point, but it is vital to your case that you don’t give up. Never forget that you are always innocent until proven guilty, regardless of the crime you are charged with.

Remember that you are afforded certain constitutional rights that can never be infringed upon. These rights include the right to remain silent and the right to retain legal counsel. It is important that you exercise both rights when you are arrested. The police may have less evidence against you than you’ve been led to believe. They may be counting on you to incriminate yourself. You don’t have to say a word to them. Simply request your lawyer and wait for their arrival.

FAQs About Columbia, SC Theft Laws

How Can I Beat a Misdemeanor Theft Charge?

There are many ways you could beat a misdemeanor theft charge. You should start by hiring an experienced and effective criminal defense lawyer who can take control of your case. They might get the prosecution to agree to a lesser charge or even a reduced sentence. If your lawyer can prove a lack of intent on your part, that can seriously hurt the prosecution’s case. They may be more willing to negotiate after that.

How Much Does a Defense Lawyer Make?

The amount of money a criminal defense lawyer makes is entirely unique to the lawyer and their work on the cases they take. Every criminal defense case is different, with each case having its own details and circumstances that are going to affect the lawyer’s fee. In a defense case, your lawyer’s fee will largely be influenced by the complexity of your case as well as the lawyer’s education, experience, resources, and availability.

What Lawyer Should I Hire for a Theft Charge?

If you are charged with theft, you are going to want to hire a criminal defense lawyer. Preferably, you should hire someone who focuses largely on theft cases. Without an experienced defense lawyer, you are probably going to lose in court. The last thing you want is to go up against a seasoned prosecutor who’s looking to take you down. You likely won’t get very far. A good lawyer can greatly improve your case’s outcome, especially in criminal defense cases.

How Can You Fight Theft Charges in South Carolina?

The most effective way to fight theft charges in South Carolina is to hire an experienced theft lawyer who can put together a winning defense strategy. Without a defense strategy, you don’t stand a chance against the prosecution. Your lawyer can explore possible defenses, gather evidence that defends your situation, and explore alternative resolutions if the need arises. Choosing the right lawyer may be the biggest decision you make throughout this situation.

Reach Out to an Experienced Theft Lawyer Today

The last thing you want is to end up in court by yourself, waiting for the prosecutor to essentially dismantle your case because you didn’t hire a lawyer. The right criminal defense lawyer can take charge of your case, build you a sound defense strategy, and represent your interests from start to finish.

The legal team at the Law Office of Charles T. Brooks III knows how difficult it can be to deal with theft charges. We can develop a strong case, gather the evidence you need that supports you, and make sure you aren’t taken advantage of. Contact us today to speak to our team about your case.