Protecting Your Future From Theft Charges

Being accused of stealing damages your reputation and can cost you considerable time behind bars and heavy fines. If you are facing theft accusations, you must be sure you are doing everything you can to defend yourself instead of hoping for a slap on the wrist.

At Harper and Harper, LLC, our attorneys can help you fight the allegations against you by pursuing defense strategies such as case dismissal, beating the charges in court or minimizing the charges/sentencing. Our team has more than 100 years of combined experience representing clients throughout northwest Indiana, and you can be the next client who benefits from our extensive experience.

What A Conviction Can Mean For You

Many people are surprised to learn the potential consequences of a conviction in Indiana for the theft charges they are facing. The specific penalties depend on whether you are facing petty theft (of property less than about $500) or grand theft charges, and if the grand theft charges are considered a felony.

Minimal charges for theft can result in penalties of $5,000 in fines and up to a year in jail, and felony violations can have thousands of dollars in fines and as much as six years in prison. Depending on the value of stolen assets, your charges and penalties will be more severe.

Our job as your legal representation is to steer your defense case toward the outcome you deserve and, ideally, minimize or eliminate the charges and consequences that are present in your situation. We pursue this goal by building defense strategies like mistake of fact, claim or ownership, or intoxication.

Our Team Is Here For You

Instead of making the mistake of representing yourself in your defense case, leave your defense needs to us. We serve clients in Porter County and all of northwestern Indiana, so call our Valparaiso office at 219-762-9538 or email us here to schedule your initial consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between theft and robbery?

Theft involves taking someone's property without permission. Robbery involves theft using force, threat of force, or intimidation against a person. Because robbery involves a victim confrontation, it is charged as a more serious felony offense with harsher penalties.

Can I be charged with felony theft for shoplifting?

Yes. In Indiana, theft of property valued over $750 can be charged as a Level 6 felony. Higher values increase the felony level. Prior theft convictions can also elevate a misdemeanor theft to a felony charge, regardless of the amount stolen.

Will I go to jail for a first-time theft offense?

Many first-time theft offenders avoid jail time, especially for lower-value misdemeanor offenses. Diversion programs, probation, community service, and restitution are often available alternatives. We work to achieve outcomes that minimize the impact on your life and record.

What are the theft charge levels in Indiana?

In general, theft of property valued under $750 is charged as a Class A misdemeanor, theft of $750 to less than $50,000 as a Level 6 felony, and theft of $50,000 or more as a Level 5 felony. Prior theft convictions and the type of property involved can raise the charge level, so the same conduct can carry very different penalties.

What are common defenses to a theft charge?

Depending on the facts, defenses may include a genuine mistake of fact, a good-faith claim that you owned or had a right to the property, a lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner, or challenges to how the evidence was obtained. We evaluate every angle to seek a dismissal, a reduction, or an acquittal.

Can a theft conviction be expunged in Indiana?

In many cases, yes. Indiana's expungement law allows certain theft convictions to be expunged or sealed after a waiting period if you meet the eligibility requirements. Clearing a theft conviction can be important for employment and housing -- see our expungements page to learn more.

Related Practice Areas

Protecting Your Future From Theft Charges

What A Conviction Can Mean For You

Our Team Is Here For You

Frequently Asked Questions

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