Theft Crimes

Highly Experienced Birmingham Criminal Attorney Defending the Rights of Clients Charged with Larceny and Other Property Crimes

While Alabama has hundreds of criminal laws on the books, theft crimes are by far the most common. According to the most recent data, theft offenses such as larceny, robbery, motor vehicle theft and burglary are responsible for over 70,000 arrests. Most of these crimes are felonies, which expose you to the very real possibility of a jail sentence. For those facing these charges, an experienced Birmingham theft crimes lawyer can help make the difference between a life-changing conviction and an acquittal.

At the Stove Law Firm, P.C., Attorney Jason Stoves has been representing clients charged with theft and other property crimes for more than 25 years. We understand the best defenses to theft crimes and what it takes to secure the best possible result in your case.

Types of Theft Crimes in Alabama

In Alabama, theft crimes are classified under the umbrella of theft of property and vary significantly in severity based on the value of the property stolen, the way the theft occurred, and other circumstances surrounding the incident. These classifications determine the penalties, which can range from fines to imprisonment. Some of the most common theft crimes in Birmingham include the following:

Theft of Property

Theft of property in Alabama is divided into degrees, based primarily on the value of the property stolen:

First Degree Theft of Property: This is the most serious property theft charge and involves property valued at more than $2,500, theft of property regardless of its value when taken directly from a person (e.g., pickpocketing), or theft of a vehicle. It’s classified as a Class B felony.

Second Degree Theft of Property: This involves property valued between $1,500 and $2,500 or theft of a controlled substance. It’s classified as a Class C felony.

Third Degree Theft of Property: This is typically for property valued between $500 and $1,500 and is classified as a Class D felony.

Fourth Degree Theft of Property: This is considered the least severe form of theft, and it involves property valued at $500 or less. It is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.

Notably, Alabama does not have a separate shoplifting or retail theft law, meaning these offenses are charged under the state’s theft of property laws.

Theft of Services

Theft of services occurs when someone obtains services by deception, threat, or other means without intent to pay. Like theft of property, theft of services is also classified into degrees based on the value of the services obtained.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving, retaining, or disposing of stolen property, knowing that it has been stolen or having reason to believe it is stolen, is also a theft crime in Alabama. This offense is also classified into degrees based on the value of the property.

Robbery

Robbery in Alabama is considered a more serious crime because it involves theft with the use or threat of force. Alabama law divides robbery into three degrees, with first-degree robbery being the most serious, often involving the use of a deadly weapon or causing serious physical injury. All robberies, regardless of the degree, are considered felonies.

Burglary

Burglary involves unlawfully entering or remaining in a dwelling, building, or vehicle with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft or a felony, inside. Thus, some, but not all, burglaries are theft crimes. Unlike theft, which can be committed without illegal entry or by deceit, burglary always involves trespassing with criminal intent. Burglary is another crime that is always considered a felony.

Are You Looking for an Experienced Birmingham Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer?

If you are facing allegations of theft, robbery, or burglary, it is imperative that you immediately speak with an experienced Birmingham criminal defense attorney to ensure your rights are protected. At the Stover Law Firm, P.C., we have extensive experience creating compelling defenses to even the toughest theft cases. We take great pride in helping good people find their way out of bad situations and look forward to discussing how we can help in your case. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Stoves Law Firm, P.C. at (205) 823-7233, or you can connect with us through our secure online contact form.