Theft defense
A theft charge follows you into every job interview
Employers read theft as a question about trust. Our first goal is a result that keeps it off your record.
Many first theft cases can end in a pretrial program, with the charge dropped when you finish it, and later sealed. We also look at what the store’s video really shows, and whether paying the store back can be part of the answer.
What we check
What the store video shows, and what it doesn’t
The value the store claims
Whether you qualify for a pretrial program
What a plea would mean at work
Step by step
What a theft case looks like
- 01
Step 1: The notice to appear
Many theft cases start with a citation instead of an arrest. We note the court date and file our appearance.
- 02
Step 2: The evidence
We ask for the store’s video, the loss report and any statement you gave.
- 03
Step 3: The program or the deal
We ask the prosecutor for a pretrial program, or a result that leaves no conviction.
- 04
Step 4: Sealing
When the case ends well, we help you seal it, so it stops showing up.
Questions
What clients ask about theft cases
The store sent me a letter asking for money. Do I have to pay?
That letter is a civil demand, separate from the criminal case. Don’t pay or answer it before we look at it with you.
It’s my first time. Will I go to jail?
For a first, low-value charge, jail is rare. The bigger risk is the record, and that is what we work to protect.
My employer accused me of taking money. What now?
Don’t sign a statement or a repayment note before talking with us. Call first, even if no police report has been made.
A first theft charge, for one flat fee
The fee covers the case through a program, a plea or a dismissal. Program fees, restitution and court costs are separate.