Louisiana Theft Lawyer

Experienced Louisiana Theft Attorney

If you’re facing theft charges in Louisiana, it’s important that you know how to protect your rights and freedom as you navigate your criminal case. Louisiana’s theft laws are daunting. You can face serious penalties as a result of your conviction. Regardless of the level of charges you face, it’s recommended that you enlist the help of a Louisiana theft lawyer.

Knightshead Law Firm is headed by a skilled Louisiana criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience handling theft cases. As a local law firm, we’re prepared to see you through the toughest criminal charges.

Louisiana Theft Laws

Theft is defined as the taking or misappropriation of another’s property without consent or through fraudulent means. Since theft crimes do not involve the element of force, it’s classified as a property crime under Louisiana law. Property crimes have a significant impact on Louisianans.

Recently, metropolitan parishes across the state reported a total of 50,154 crimes against property in a single year. That same year, 71.3 percent of all property crimes reported across the state were larceny-thefts. Moreover, embezzlement, fraud, and theft accounted for 17.7 percent of all criminal sentences across the state.

You can face serious penalties for theft in Louisiana regardless of the level of charges brought against you. It’s important that you understand your rights and options for forming a defense against your charges. A Louisiana theft lawyer can help.

Navigating a Theft Case in Louisiana

After you’re arrested or served with a summons for a theft crime, the judge presiding over your case is either going to decide on pretrial release or set a bond for your release before trial. Once a District Attorney files an official charge, you must appear before a judge for your arraignment. This is where you hear your formal charges and can enter a plea.

Theft cases don’t automatically go to trial in Louisiana. It’s possible to reach a decision through pre-trial hearings and motions.

First-time theft offenders may also be eligible for pre-trial diversion, which effectively dismisses the charges upon completion of all requirements. This may include completing community service or paying restitution to the victim.

If you’re charged with theft in Louisiana, it’s recommended that you hire a criminal defense lawyer right away. Building a successful defense starts with having a comprehensive understanding of Louisiana theft laws and how they pertain to your charges. With so much on the line, it’s wise to enlist as much help as you can get.

A Louisiana Theft Lawyer You Can Trust

Knightshead Law Firm is a local criminal defense law firm with extensive experience navigating Louisiana’s theft laws. We understand how much is at stake when you’re facing criminal charges, and we’re prepared to help our clients secure favorable outcomes whenever possible.

Whether it’s guiding you through pre-trial procedures or advocating for you in the courtroom, you can rest assured you have comprehensive legal support through every stage of your case. With over a decade and a half of criminal defense experience under our belt, we’re comfortable going up against the criminal justice system and being the aggressive advocate our clients need.

Led by Attorney Tedrick Knightshead, our firm is committed to defending your rights and securing your future. We’re more than just a lawyer who offers legal advice. You can count on us to be your biggest ally and supporter throughout your case.

FAQs

What Are the Differences Between Theft, Robbery, and Burglary in Louisiana?

The differences between theft, robbery, and burglary in Louisiana are plentiful, even though many people may try to use the terms interchangeably. Theft involves taking or misappropriating another’s property without their consent. It does not require force or violence.

Robbery, on the other hand, involves taking or attempting to take property through fear or force. Burglary is defined as entering a dwelling or structure with the intent to commit theft or another felony.

Is Theft a Misdemeanor or Felony Under Louisiana Law?

Theft can be a misdemeanor or felony under Louisiana law. Louisiana’s theft penalties hinge on the value of the stolen property. For example, theft of property that is valued at less than $1,000 is a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail.

Anything valued at $1,000 or more is considered a felony. There are different felony theft sentences depending on the specific value. The offender’s criminal history can also affect the charges they face.

What Theft Penalties Can I Face in Louisiana?

What theft penalties you can face in Louisiana depends on your criminal record, the value of the stolen property, and other specific facts of your case. Theft penalties under Louisiana law may include:

• Fines
• Time in jail
• Imprisonment with or without hard labor
• Probation
• Loss of professional licenses

It’s recommended that you hire a theft lawyer about your charges and enlist their help to secure the lightest possible sentence.

What Defense Can I Use in a Louisiana Theft Case?

The defense you can use in a Louisiana theft case ultimately is up to you and your attorney. The most successful defenses are tailored to the specific case. It’s important to understand the nature of the charges against you in order to form a solid defense and secure your freedom.

A Louisiana theft attorney may suggest any of the following defenses based on the facts of your case:

• Consent
• False allegations
• Incorrect value
• Lack of intent
• Mistaken identity
• Rightful ownership

Hire a Theft Lawyer in Louisiana to Discuss Your Defense Options in More Detail

With over 15 years of criminal defense experience under our belt, Knightshead Law Firm knows how to advocate for Louisianans going up against the criminal justice system. We know what tactics prosecutors use when building cases, and we’re prepared to provide the advocacy you need throughout your case.

Reach out to our team here in Baton Rouge to discuss your criminal charges in more detail with an attorney you can trust. Call the office to schedule a consultation, and we can take it from there. Our office is conveniently located near the I-10 and I-110 interchange when you’re ready to get started.