Theft

The crime of theft can be committed in Washington in three different ways. The value of the item is what determines the difference between the three charges.

Theft in the third degree:This is a gross misdemeanor that can lead to a maximum $5,000 fine and up 364 days imprisonment. Stolen goods or services are worth less than $750

Theft in Second Degree:This is a Class C felony and can result in a $10,000 fine or up to five years imprisonment. Stolen items and services exceeding $750 are not more than $5,000

Theft in the First degree:This is a Class A felony that can be punished with a maximum $20,000 fine and up 10 years imprisonment. Stolen items and services exceeding $5,000

A person can suffer serious consequences from theft charges. Employers often require employees to disclose arrests. This could lead to termination, loss of security clearance, or discipline.

Future job opportunities will be affected. You may lose your professional license if you work in a field that requires it (real estate agent or pharmacist, teacher, doctor, etc …)). You may also be considered unemployed in certain industries. You won’t be allowed to work in banking, lending, or any other position where money is exchanged. Contractors and laborers who are required to visit clients’ homes may not be permitted. Your ability to get student loans may be affected if you’re going to college or are planning to go back to school. The mortgage lending process can be a nightmare if you’re thinking about buying a house. This type of charge can make it difficult for many people. Theft charges should be treated with the utmost importance.

How do misdemeanor theft charges resolve?

Two instruments are common ways we can avoid misdemeanor theft convictions in our clients’ cases.Pre-Trial Diversion Agreement(or PDA), 2.Compromise on Misdemeanor. Both will usually result in dismissal.

Both of these resolution methods are highly efficient. Each of these methods is used when possible to minimize long-term negative effects on our clients. Our clients who are accused of theft will see their cases dismissed with a Compromise or PDA for more than 95%.

If a person does not have a long criminal history, or the facts of the case are very troubling, most misdemeanor theft charges can be resolved using one of these mechanisms. If they believe there is a chemical dependency issue, courts will often require a drug or alcohol assessment. These proactive treatment requirements are usually part of the deal. If they are not satisfied, the case can be dismissed.

What is the best way to resolve Felony Theft charges?

The “Therapeutic Courts” are a common way to avoid felony theft convictions in Kitsap County Superior Court. The Therapeutic Courts are now able to accept large numbers of participants. The term “Therapeutic Courts”, is used as an umbrella to describe many different rehabilitative Court programs.

These diversionary programs are likely to result in the dismissal of felony theft. THRIVE Court is a Therapeutic Court program that includes drug court, THRIVE Courts, Felony Diversions, Veteran’s Court, Behavioral Health Court and THRIVE Court. The pending theft case will be dropped if the person is accepted into these programs and completes the program.

It is more difficult to get into these Superior Court Therapeutic Court programs than in District Court. It is often difficult to apply and be accepted into these Court programs. This can sometimes require you to visit each program in person. We have had great success in getting clients accepted into the programs and having the felony charges dropped.

Additional or more serious charges

A simple theft charge may quickly become a more serious or multiple charge. Although Theft can be charged in the First, Second, and Third Degrees, additional charges may be filed that involve theft. You could be charged with Theft of the Third Degree if you take a watch from a jewelry case. If you took the watch from your roommate and refused to give it back (perhaps because you feel justified, or because he hasn’t paid rent), then you could be charged with Robbery. This is a felony crime. You not only committed theft but also assaulted your roommate by taking the watch off his hand. This is Robbery. This scenario could lead to additional charges or special allegations. However, it is important to remember that details are important.

While all theft crimes are included in the RCW, they are also called Robbery and Burglary, Motor Vehicle Theft and Possession of Stolen property, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Motor Vehicle Theft, Theft of a Firearm, Theft of Livestock and Extortion. Talk to a criminal defense lawyer about the circumstances surrounding your case. It is important to determine if you have been charged properly based on the facts.

If the Prosecutor discovers additional facts, such as assault or the presence of a weapon on your person, your Theft of the Third Degree charge could be made a felony. You may also face multiple charges. Witness Tampering could also be a possibility if you make contact with the person who took the item (including the store clerks). It is imperative that you consult an experienced criminal defense lawyer if you face a charge of theft or are being investigated for it. An attorney’s early involvement can make a huge difference in the outcome of these cases.