Tacoma Theft Defense Attorneys

Theft is one of the most common criminal charges, but it is also one of the most varied. Theft is not a single charge but encompasses multiple charges, as theft can be accomplished in a myriad of ways. If you are charged with any form of theft in Tacoma, contact an attorney to help you right away.

In Washington State, theft charges may be charged in the first, second, or third degree. How a defendant is accused of committing the crime will determine how they are charged and what penalties they may face if convicted. Your best defense will also vary based on how you are charged and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime. In many cases, serious jail time is a possibility, and it is crucial that defendants get help from experienced attorneys.

Receive a private case assessment from our theft defense lawyers by calling the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645.

How Can a Defendant Be Charged with Theft in Tacoma?

Theft is not just one criminal charge. Theft may be charged in the first or second degree, and how our theft defense attorneys develop your defense strategies will depend on how you are charged.

R.C.W. § 9A.56.030 Theft in the First Degree

Theft in the first degree is one of the most severe theft charges a person might face in Washington State. You may be charged with theft in the first degree if you are accused of the following:

• Theft of property (not including a firearm) or services worth more than $5,000.
• Theft of any property, other than a firearm or motor vehicle, taken from the victim’s person.
• Stealing a rescue dog while the dog is in service.
• Theft of commercial metal property, nonferrous metal property, or private metal property, and the damage to the owner’s property is more than $5,000.
• Theft of equipment used by firefighters or emergency medical personnel that is necessary for their work in case of emergency, and the property is taken from a fire station, fire department vehicle, or emergency medical service building or vehicle. Additionally, the loss of the property must significantly hinder emergency services and exceed $1,000 in damages.

Theft in the first degree is a Class B felony.

R.C.W. § 9A.56.040 Theft in the Second Degree

Theft in the second degree is not quite as severe as charges in the first degree, but it may still be considered a felony and carries serious penalties. A defendant may be charged with theft in the second degree if they are accused of any of the following:

• Stealing property or services, other than a firearm or vehicle, that is worth more than $750.
• Theft of a public record, writing, or instrument that is kept, filed, or deposited according to the law with a public office or public servant.
• Stealing commercial, nonferrous, or private metal property that causes property damage worth more than $750 but less than $5,000.
• Stealing an access device (e.g., key cards, codes, account numbers).

Theft in the second degree may be charged as a Class C felony.

R.C.W. § 9A.56.050 Theft in the Third Degree

A defendant may be convicted of theft in the third degree if prosecutors can prove beyond a reasonable doubt the following elements:

• The defendant committed theft of property or services that is worth less than $750, or
• The stolen property includes 10 or more merchandise pallets, 10 or more beverage crates, or a combination of 10 or more merchandise and beverage crates.

Theft in the third-degree may be a gross misdemeanor.

FAQs About Challenging Theft Charges in Tacoma

How Are Theft Offenses Graded in Tacoma?

Theft offenses may be charged in the first, second, or third degree. Theft in the first degree may be a Class B felony, while theft in the second degree may be a Class C felony. Theft in the third degree may only be charged as a gross misdemeanor.

Will I Go to Jail for a Theft Charge?

Possibly. Theft in the first and second degrees may be considered a felony and carry stiff penalties, including time in prison. Under the law, a Class B felony may be punished by a 10-year prison term. A Class C felony may be punished with a term of 5 years. Gross misdemeanors may be penalized with up to 364 days in jail.

What if the Stolen Property Actually Belonged to Me?

You should not be charged with theft if the property involved legally belongs to you. It is legally impossible to steal your own property. If you own the property in question, your attorney can help you prove it and get your charges dropped or dismissed.

What if the Stolen Property is Not Very Valuable in a Tacoma Theft Case?

The alleged value of the property allegedly stolen is a key factor when prosecutors assess charges. The more valuable the property is, the higher your charges may be. If we believe the property is not nearly as valuable as prosecutors claim, we can urge for a reduction in your charges.

Can I Be Charged with Theft if I Was Allowed to Take the Property?

A key part of theft charges is that the defendant allegedly took the property without proper consent or authorization. If you actually were authorized to take the property, tell your attorney. We may be able to prove that you were permitted to take the property, and the criminal charges may result from a misunderstanding.

What Should I Do if I am Arrested for Theft in Tacoma?

If you are arrested for theft, stay calm and do not resist the police. Resisting law enforcement during an arrest will only lead to more legal trouble. Do not answer any questions about the alleged offense without a lawyer present. At the police station, ask to call your lawyer immediately.

Our Tacoma Theft Defense Attorneys Can Help

Receive a private case assessment from our theft defense lawyers by calling the Law Offices of Smith & White at (253) 203-1645.