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:
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Working with Mr. Skinner has been a pleasure.
12-19-2018
Jessel
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
Anyone faced with a DUI charge needs Mike Skinner.
12-17-2018
T McGov
Mike’s attention to detail and professionalism put my mind at ease.
09-10-2019
Mike
Michael was able to give me clear guidance on my legal options and explained each step of the process.
11-15-2019
Moh Nica
He took me through everything step by step and charged me a fair price for his service.
11-26-2019
Mckenzie
I am thankful I found and chose Michael Skinner.
05-17-2019
B.H.
He is very informative and knowledgeable. I had no trouble contacting him to answer questions or give me advice.
11-29-2019
Miles
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 would highly recommend him to anyone facing charges or violations in Chester County.
08-16-2019
Dylan
His calm presence is also very reassuring for his clients. Highly recommend choosing him.
05-21-2019
Kevin
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
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.
He was very negotiable and understanding of my circumstances.
11-14-2018
Sahmere
From day one I felt comfortable with him and confident that he would help me get the best outcome available.
12-19-2018
Chesco
I don’t think it is possible for a better outcome than what was achieved by Michael J Skinner.
12-14-2017
Keith
Michael Skinner and his staff made me completely comfortable and confident
07-11-2019
Jason
Michael Skinner EXPERTLY handled a very sensitive case.
12-10-2018
Matt
Michael and Nichole made me feel comfortable as you truly feel that you are discussing your problem with friends.
11-15-2018
John
I was a little nervous about everything and just 5 minutes of talking with Mike, I felt at ease.
12-18-2018
Garry W.
He was able to get me a lesser sentence and always treated me with respect throughout.
12-08-2019
Ricky
He is very nice and will work with to help get you the best possible outcome.
07-08-2018
Katie
If you work with him, he will get you what you want/deserve.
06-13-2018
John K.
Extensive experience with defending DUI’s and I saw this confidence in the courtroom.
12-17-2018
Anne
Michael Skinner is an excellent lawyer that knows your rights, and he will indeed fight for you.
12-04-2018
Jamal
Mike Skinner resolved this case in the best way possible, and I am eternally grateful for his advice and counsel.
11-30-2019
Judy
His diligence and professionalism are unmatched making it a pleasure to have been a client.
12-19-2018
Dalton
He is very professional and understanding of each person’s needs.
05-19-2019
Gary
A top-notch attorney in West Chester.
10-10-2019
Emily
Going above and beyond for their clients is an understatement.
12-20-2018
James
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.