Free Consultation:
610-436-1410
Free Consultation:
610-436-1410West Chester
Theft charges are among the most common offenses seen in Pennsylvania’s courts. While the precise penalties largely depend on the value taken and the history of the accused, any theft accusation needs to be taken seriously by working with a veteran criminal defense lawyer. Aside from possible time behind bars, a theft conviction regardless of the amount involved will mark you as a dishonest person, making job searches and advancement a real challenge.
If you’ve been arrested for theft, from shoplifting to fraud in West Chester, Phoenixville, Kennett Square, Oxford, Coatesville, or anywhere in Chester County, contact an experienced and aggressive theft lawyer at Skinner Law Firm. As a former Assistant District Attorney in Chester County, Michael J. Skinner knows how theft cases work, what diversion options are available, and how to best handle your defense.
At Skinner Law Firm, we know what you are dealing with and what it takes to secure the best possible outcome in a theft case. Call (610) 436-1410 today or contact us online for a free, initial consultation with attorney Skinner.
Under Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes Title 18 § 3921, a person commits a theft by unlawful taking if he or she exercises unlawful control over the movable or immovable property of another with the intent to deprive the owner to benefit himself or someone not entitled to the property in question.
Some of the most common theft violations in Pennsylvania that can result in fines or even imprisonment include, but are not limited to:
A professional non-profit dedicated to the improvement of the criminal defense bar, and to providing valuable information to the public about drunk driving laws. Members of the NCDD are considered the most experienced DUI defense attorneys in the United States and Canada.
The preeminent organization in the United States. NACDL serves as a leader in identifying and reforming flaws in the criminal justice system, and addressing systemic racism, and ensuring that the criminal defense bar is fully equipped to serve all accused persons at the highest level.
PACDL is the premier network of the best defense attorneys in PA with a mission to educate, advocate, and inspire by providing support for criminal defense lawyers, promoting effective competence, leveling the playing field, and protecting freedoms.
The Pennsylvania Bar Association promotes and protects the legal profession, the rights of Pennsylvania citizens and access to justice for all. Membership is open to any lawyer in good standing who is licensed by the Bar of Pennsylvania.
The American Bar Association is one of the world’s largest voluntary professional organizations, with over 400,000 members and more than 3,500 entities. Their mission is to serve its members, the legal profession, and the public by defending liberty and delivering justice as the national representative of the legal profession.
The CCBA promotes professionalism, inclusion, and collegiality within the Chester County legal profession, and enhances the quality of life of its members and the practice of law within the community.
The NORML Legal Committee (NLC) is composed of attorneys committed to the overall goals of NORML. NLC attorneys meet each year to discuss emerging legal issues related to defense of marijuana consumers and to support each other in the pursuit of justice.
The American Institute’s Criminal Law Division is an impartial third-party rating service recognizing the excellence of fellow practitioners. To help clients across the United States make educated decisions, we compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State. Our “10 Best” is a prestigious honor extended only to those who have reached the top of their profession while doing so with the client’s satisfaction being of paramount importance.
The American Institute’s DUI/DWI Division recognizes the excellence of practitioners in the field of DUI/DWI defense. We compile an exclusive list of the “10 Best” Attorneys for each State for potential clients to utilize. We look for Attorneys that have achieved unparalleled success but most importantly have done so for the benefit of their client. Very few Attorneys can do so and our organization recognizes this significant achievement.
Attorney Michael Skinner has been consistently recognized as among the best lawyers in Chester, Delaware, and Montgomery counties. Attorneys are nominated via peer balloting, then vetted through our editorial process in various fields of practice.
The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 is an invitation-only organization composed of the premier trial lawyers from each state. Membership is extended only to the most qualified attorneys who demonstrate superior qualifications of leadership, reputation, influence, stature and public profile. Each of our distinguished members possesses the knowledge, skill, experience, and success held by only the best and finest lawyers in America.
The Super Lawyers list recognizes no more than 5 percent of attorneys in each state. The Rising Stars further distinguishes no more than 2.5 percent of attorneys, and to be eligible, a Rising Stars candidate must be either 40 years old or younger, or in practice for 10 years or less who have attained a high-degree of peer recognition and professional achievement.
Theft charges in Pennsylvania can be classified as felonies or misdemeanors based on several factors. These include the monetary value of what was taken, the type of property in question, the accused’s prior criminal history, and if violence was used or threatened in the commission of the crime.
Third-Degree Misdemeanor Theft/Summary Offense – Up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Second-Degree Misdemeanor Theft – Up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
First- Degree Misdemeanor Theft – Up to five years in jail and a $10,000 fine.
Third-Degree Felony Theft – Up to seven years in prison and $15,000 in fines.
Second-Degree Felony Theft – Up to 10 years in prison and $25,000 in fines.
First-Degree Felony Theft – Up to 20 years in prison, and fines reaching $25,000.
There are also instances that can heighten or reduce the penalties you face for a theft charge. For instance, a first offense for shoplifting less than $150 in merchandise, it will likely be charged as a summary offense, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine. However, penalties increase for subsequent offenses, and if you’re charged with repeated retail theft, prosecutors can use the alleged total value taken to escalate the offense rather than the amount from a single incident.
You can also face more severe penalties if the theft occurred during a disaster or the item stolen was a firearm.
Even if you avoid time in custody, a theft conviction can lead to other punishments. These include months or years of probation, theft diversion classes, and paying restitution to the victims. There are also secondary repercussions to living with theft on your permanent criminal record, like an inability to hold certain professional licenses as well as finding and maintaining employment. Also, as a crime of moral turpitude, a theft conviction may cause serious immigration issues.
“Having been faced with a daunting legal issue, my family and I were so relieved to have connected with Skinner Law Firm. Mike’s calm demeanor coupled with his extensive knowledge and expertise proved invaluable. It is clear he genuinely cares…
06-18-2020
Ann M.
He was very negotiable and understanding of my circumstances.
11-14-2018
Sahmere
“I was referred to Mr. Skinner by the bar association. From my experience he’s knowledgeable about law and made me feel at ease every step of the way. I’m definitely glad he accepted my case and recommend him highly. He…
10-19-2018
Chrishan T.
Michael Skinner is an excellent lawyer that knows your rights, and he will indeed fight for you.
12-04-2018
Jamal
“One of the best lawyers I’ve ever dealt with, he gave me a second chance to do the right thing in life. Best money ever spent , very genuine person too he always kept it real with me. He went…
04-17-2024
Dylan S.
He was able to get me a lesser sentence and always treated me with respect throughout.
12-08-2019
Ricky
“Mr Skinner is an amazing attorney. I could not have asked for a better attorney for my family.I would highly recommend using Skinner Law Firm. Mr Skinner and staff are amazing and very professional team. I would recommend them for…
10-05-2024
J
I don’t think it is possible for a better outcome than what was achieved by Michael J Skinner.
12-14-2017
Keith
I am thankful I found and chose Michael Skinner.
05-17-2019
B.H.
Mr Skinner always kept us updated about the case and was prompt with his responses.
12-13-2018
Robert
He was extremely helpful and knowledgeable.
06-14-2018
Kelly
Mike’s attention to detail and professionalism put my mind at ease.
09-10-2019
Mike
“Attorneys can be intimidating but Mr. Skinner is approachable and made me feel at ease. His office staff is professional but friendly, too. He worked hard for our family and I appreciate that.”
10-16-2018
KM
“Nothing but compliments for Mike and his team. Would definitely recommend to family and friends. Thank you for all your help. Best, John”
07-09-2025
Jay de
Working with Mr. Skinner has been a pleasure.
12-19-2018
Jessel
He took me through everything step by step and charged me a fair price for his service.
11-26-2019
Mckenzie
“I had a great experience working with Mr. Skinner. From the start he was knowledgeable, responsive, and genuinely cared about the case. They took time to explain each step of the process clearly and always kept me informed. They made…
06-11-2025
Gbird
Michael and Nichole made me feel comfortable as you truly feel that you are discussing your problem with friends.
11-15-2018
John
“My son was working with a public defender who was looking at his situation in “black & white” and really didn’t listen to his story. We were told to expect 7 to 23 months jail time. Scared, but not financially…
05-14-2020
Laura Z.
Michael was able to give me clear guidance on my legal options and explained each step of the process.
11-15-2019
Moh Nica
Going above and beyond for their clients is an understatement.
12-20-2018
James
Anyone faced with a DUI charge needs Mike Skinner.
12-17-2018
T McGov
I would highly recommend him to anyone facing charges or violations in Chester County.
08-16-2019
Dylan
“Mike is a fantastic lawyer who is extremely knowledgeable of the law. If you are someone in need of legal advice, I would highly recommend reaching out to Mike and his team. Not only are they always well prepared and…
08-17-2023
Joe K.
“Mike and his team were great to work with, and he secured an excellent outcome for my case. I highly recommend Skinner law Firm to anyone requiring legal support.”
06-04-2025
Luke
I went to Skinner after researching all the law firms in the area and without a doubt would go to him for everything.
05-15-2019
Jordan
“I couldn’t recommend Skinner Law Firm more. Great outcome a genuinely good lawyer helped me through the whole process with a payment plan that I could handle.”
07-01-2025
Jason K.
“Mike Skinner and his team at Skinner Law Firm are consummate professionals. Their expertise, attention to detail, and dedication to client success make them a top choice for legal representation. I highly recommend their services for anyone seeking reliable and…
10-24-2024
Connor G.
“In need of a criminal lawyer, my brother’s friend found himself in trouble and came to my brother and me for help. We immediately thought about Mr. Skinner who had represented my family four years ago. Mr. Skinner is an…
10-11-2017
Todd B.
Extensive experience with defending DUI’s and I saw this confidence in the courtroom.
12-17-2018
Anne
His diligence and professionalism are unmatched making it a pleasure to have been a client.
12-19-2018
Dalton
“Mr.Skinner was nothing short of amazing. My husband had a, driving under a suspended license (DUI related) charge. He would have had to spend time in jail and possibly lose his job that he has had over 5 years. We…
04-14-2016
Candiss B.
I was nervous regarding my situation, but after a brief conversation describing my charges and the delicacy of my situation, Michael assured me he could easily handle this case.
11-23-2019
Dan
“The Skinner law firm has been amazing throughout my whole case. They have been very understanding and flexible with my situation and I couldn’t be more grateful. Thank you guys for everything.”
06-19-2025
Brittany S.
“I was looking for a Lawyer and got referred to Micheal Skinner and I’m happy with the results. Had a case open for years that I never got handle and Mike did a great job on the outcome. He and…
10-08-2024
A
“My dad’s good friend referred us to Michael Skinner and I’m super happy with the outcome! Michael and his staff were super professional and always got back to any questions I had in a timely manner. This was my first…
01-23-2025
Rebekah
He was able to reduce my son’s sentence from a potentially harsh fine, loss of driving privileges or even jail time, down to a few community service hours.
10-11-2018
T.F.
“Skinner helped a relative of mine with a case. His drive to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients is impeccable. I suggest his services to anyone that wants to have their case fought until the end. He went…
05-18-2018
Amanda P.
“5-star A1 Blue-collar No B.S. review. 2 clients under this review Mike is a fantastic lawyer from PFA to Dui Beyond…Avoiding B.S.. Felony charges from West Goshen police in Chester County Pa. working with Judges and DA knowing the laws….
08-15-2024
Fred C.
He is very nice and will work with to help get you the best possible outcome.
07-08-2018
Katie
“I was looking for a Lawyer and I reached out to Micheal Skinner & his team. My situation needed to be handled professionally and it was dealt with properly! The outcome was great despite the duration of the matter, Mr.Skinner…
10-10-2024
Juriel G.
“My experience with Skinner Law Firm has been nothing short of excellent. Not only is Michael Skinner compassionate and eager to help; the people he keeps in his corner as staff are equally intelligent and supportive. His secretary Ms Cinaglia…
08-13-2020
Sarah D.
Mike Skinner resolved this case in the best way possible, and I am eternally grateful for his advice and counsel.
11-30-2019
Judy
“Mr. Skinner was very professional and efficient. It was a pleasure doing business with Mr. Skinner as well as his associates!”
10-01-2025
Fran
“Mr Skinner is an excellent lawyer. He was referred to me and he couldn’t have been more kind, HONEST, and patient. His calm and empathetic demeanor is refreshing. He is very detailed, extremely professional and always made me feel as…
10-15-2020
Staci Y.
“Working with Mike and his staff, Lindsay and Delaney, was so easy and reassuring. They made this entire process stress-free and made us feel at ease and always well informed. Mike was efficient and confident, but always took his time…
10-11-2023
Christopher M.
“Michael Skinner and his wife Lindsey and his whole team helped me and my wife. They’re very honest. Trustworthy. They’re paralegal. Steve was also very good at keeping me updated and at the end of the day you want a…
02-05-2025
Michael M.
I was a little nervous about everything and just 5 minutes of talking with Mike, I felt at ease.
12-18-2018
Garry W.
His calm presence is also very reassuring for his clients. Highly recommend choosing him.
05-21-2019
Kevin
Michael Skinner and his staff made me completely comfortable and confident
07-11-2019
Jason
“Attorney Mike Skinner is the best attorney in West Chester to help you with criminal court. He is honest, straight to the point and will help you out as much as he can. He is helping me with a current…
10-17-2018
Eric D.
“Mike Skinner is a terrific guy and a fantastic lawyer. He is honest, intelligent, and all of his moves are carefully calculated. I would highly recommend Mike to anyone who has hit a legal “speed bump” throughout the course of…
10-21-2015
William P.
He is very informative and knowledgeable. I had no trouble contacting him to answer questions or give me advice.
11-29-2019
Miles
“My experience with Mr. Skinner was very professional. He’s been in the business for awhile & knows his stuff. Lindsay, at front desk, was extremely warm & personable. Overall, very positive experience.”
06-06-2025
Diane
A top-notch attorney in West Chester.
10-10-2019
Emily
“I have nothing but good things to say about Mike Skinner. We found Mike searching for an option other than a public defender. He made the time to meet with us quickly. He assessed the information and gave his honest…
10-20-2020
Brandon C.
From day one I felt comfortable with him and confident that he would help me get the best outcome available.
12-19-2018
Chesco
Michael Skinner EXPERTLY handled a very sensitive case.
12-10-2018
Matt
“We have been very pleased with the professional advice and help of the Skinner Law Firm. Both Mike Skinner and Nicole Welch have helped our family immensely. They are very knowledgeable, easy to talk to and easy to get ahold…
10-10-2018
P
“I could not have had better representation for my son. The plea Mr. Skinner was able to work out was even better than we anticipated. Mr. Skinner and his staff are the most professional and supportive individuals, I never waited…
08-13-2025
Mindy
“Mike Skinner is a phenomenal attorney and an even greater person. He arrived early to my hearing and ran through the game plan with me beforehand so I knew what to expect. Due to his great negotiation skills, we were…
10-14-2021
Juan H.
If you work with him, he will get you what you want/deserve.
06-13-2018
John K.
He is very professional and understanding of each person’s needs.
05-19-2019
Gary
If you are ever arrested for theft in Pennsylvania, protecting your record and preserving your freedom should always be the priority. By working with an experienced theft lawyer, you can carefully review all your options and pursue the course of action that works best for you.
In some situations, we can refute the value of what was allegedly taken to reduce the charges to something more manageable. We’ve also seen people benefit from participating in theft diversion programs that ultimately lead to having the case dismissed.
We can also challenge the prosecutor’s evidence outright, and fight to have the charges thrown out or prove your innocence in court.
Pennsylvania State Police – This governmental department serves the public in Pennsylvania by seeking justice for criminal offenses, preserving the peace and improving the quality of law for all. Included on this site is information about crime prevention and current initiatives by the PSP. A Chester County office is located at:
Pennsylvania State Police
Chester County Station
997 Lieds Road
Coatesville, PA 19320
Phone: (484) 340-3241
National Association for Shoplifting Prevention – This non-profit organization seeks to prevent shoplifting nationwide, provides information on where to find help for those with a shoplifting problem, and other resources about shoplifting.
Pennsylvania theft charges can be as minor as shoplifting with minimal consequences to life-changing felony fraud charges and decades in prison. No matter the value or circumstances, reach out to Skinner Law Firm. Have former Chester County prosecutor Michael J. Skinner listen to the facts and help you identify any possible defenses or mitigating details that will reduce your charge, or even have it dismissed.
In West Chester, Phoenixville, Exton, Kennett Square, Downingtown, Oxford, Coatesville, or anywhere in Chester County, call (610) 436-1410 for a free consultation about your alleged theft charge.