Minneapolis Theft Lawyer

Aggressive Representation Against Theft Charges in Minnesota

In general, theft occurs when a person takes another's property. Minnesota recognizes that the acquisition of said property may be done without consent or with it – when such was done using a fraud scheme. It also recognizes that a person may deprive another of property permanently or temporarily. This all means that if an individual unlawfully acquires something – whether it's goods or services – they are committing a crime. The state will harshly prosecute them, and if they are found guilty, they may be subject to severe penalties, including incarceration and/or fines.

If you or someone you know has been accused, contact Brockton D. Hunter P.A. immediately. Our Minneapolis theft lawyers are ready to fight for you and preserve your rights. We have extensive experience challenging criminal accusations and know what it takes to get results.

Call Brockton D. Hunter P.A. today at (612) 979-1112 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our theft attorney in Minneapolis!

How Does Minnesota Define Theft?

The law concerning theft is MN Statutes § 609.52. It is specifically concerned with offenses involving the unlawful acquisition of property or services. Minnesota also has other laws concerning related theft crimes, such as receiving stolen property (MN Statutes § 609.53), motor vehicle tampering (MN Statutes § 609.546), mail theft (MN Statutes § 609.529), identity theft (MN Statutes § 609.527), and possession of shoplifting gear (MN Statutes § 609.521).

The theft law enumerates several types of conduct that constitute an offense. These include:

Taking property without the owner's consent and with the intent to deprive them of it permanently
Taking property from a pledgee or person with the right to the item without consent
Obtaining custody or the title of property or performance of services by defrauding the owner
Obtaining property through the use of deception, trick, or other schemes to defraud
Obtaining property under certain conditions when the intent is to deprive the owner of it temporarily
Keeping lost property without making a reasonable attempt to return it to the owner
Obtaining property without making the required deposit
Using trade secrets for personal gain without the right to do so
Unlawfully leasing or renting personal property
Defacing movable property to prevent the owner from identifying it
Removing the serial number or other ID numbers on personal property to prevent identification
Unlawfully receiving cable television service by making an unauthorized connection or using an unauthorized device
Receiving services without intending to pay for them
Unlawfully receiving telecommunications services by using an unauthorized connection or device
Using business property for something other than its intended purposes
Defrauding a corporation into making a distribution in violation of the law
Taking gas from a retailer without consent
Committing wage theft

Because the law defines various ways theft could be committed, you may face accusations even though you didn't intend to do anything unlawful. At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., we're ready to listen to your side of the story and develop a defense that allows your voice to be heard. Speak with our Minneapolis theft attorneys about your case as soon as possible.

Common Types of Theft Crimes

Theft crimes encompass various offenses, each with unique circumstances and legal implications. As your advocates, we have extensive experience handling various theft cases, including:

Shoplifting: Accusations of shoplifting can have serious consequences, impacting your personal and professional life.
Burglary: Breaking into a property intending to commit a crime can lead to severe charges. Our legal team is well-versed in building robust defenses against burglary allegations.
Robbery: Charges of robbery involve the use of force or threat to take someone's property. We understand the nuances of such cases and work tirelessly to protect your rights.
Auto Theft: Being accused of stealing a vehicle demands a strategic defense. Our lawyers have a proven track record of successfully handling auto theft cases.

Is Theft a Misdemeanor or Felony in Minnesota?

Under Minnesota law, theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. What determines the level is the type and value of the item involved.

Below are the charges and penalties that can be levied depending on the circumstances:

Misdemeanor theft:

Property or services is valued at $500 or less

Penalties include:

Up to 90 days in jail and/or
Up to $1,000 in fines

Gross Misdemeanor theft:

Property or services is valued at over $500 but not more than $1,000

Penalties include:

Up to 1 year in jail and/or
Up to $3,000 in fines

Felony theft

When the property or services are:

Valued at over $1,000 but not more than $5,000;
A Schedule III, IV, or V controlled substance; or
Valued at more than $500 but not more than $1,000, and the person has a prior theft conviction within the past five years

The penalties include:

Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or
Up to $10,000 in fines

When the property or services are:

Valued at over $5,000, or
A trade secret, incendiary device, or a Schedule I or II controlled substance

The penalties include:

Up to 10 years imprisonment and/or
Up to $20,000 in fines

When the property or services:

Is a firearm, or
Valued at over $35,000

The penalties include:

Up to 20 years imprisonment and/or
Up to $100,000 in fines

No matter what you have been accused of, our theft lawyers in Minneapolis will put in the time and effort necessary to defend you.

Defenses Against Theft Charges

Mounting a strong defense is crucial when facing theft crime charges. Our legal team employs a variety of defenses tailored to the specifics of your case:

Lack of Intent: Demonstrating that there was no intent to commit theft can be a powerful defense strategy.
Mistaken Identity: If there is any doubt regarding your identity as the perpetrator, we work diligently to establish a case of mistaken identity.
Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution's evidence can be instrumental in securing a favorable outcome.
Consent: In some instances, establishing that you had permission to take the property can be a valid defense.

Contact Our Minneapolis Theft Crimes Attorney Today

We can investigate your arrest, examine all available evidence, and determine your legal options to obtain the best results possible. Our Minneapolis criminal defense firm is led by an attorney with a perfect 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating due to experience, service, and results, and who has been included in Minnesota's Super Lawyers® list every year since 2011. Do not risk going to trial without our experienced legal help.

Contact Brockton D. Hunter P.A. today to schedule a meeting with our theft lawyer in Minneapolis!