Theft and Shoplifting Defense Attorneys in Bellingham

If you are facing theft charges, you will face harsh penalties that will impact your life for years to come because the state of Washington takes such accusations very seriously. However, theft is a complicated charge. Sometimes, individuals are charged with theft when they don't even realize they are committing a crime. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your theft charges, our Bellingham defense attorneys are on the case.

We will assess the situation and determine the best course of action to protect your rights. Using our deep knowledge of theWhatcom County Courts, we'll craft an effective defense to your charges. Contact us now for a free consultation to learn how we can help you.

What To Do If You've Been Charged With Theft In Whatcom County

If you are facing theft charges in Whatcom County, Washington, it's vital to take structured and strategic actions to handle the situation effectively. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Understand Your Charges: First, clarify what specific type of theft charge you are facing, as this detail will affect your legal options and consequences.
2. Exercise Your Right To Remain Silent: Never discuss your case with anyone other than your attorney, as any statements you make can be used against you in court.
3. Speak With An Attorney: Contact a criminal defense attorney experienced with theft cases in Whatcom County who can provide legal advice and negotiate on your behalf.
4. Attend All Court Appointments: Make sure you attend all scheduled court dates. Missing a court appearance can result in additional charges or a warrant for your arrest.
5. Gather Evidence And Witnesses: Compile any evidence that may support your case, such as receipts, alibis, or surveillance footage. Let your attorney know if there are witnesses who can support your version of events.
6. Follow Your Attorney's Legal Advice: Your attorney will likely provide specific advice based on the details of your case, such as not contacting any alleged victims or co-defendants.
7. Consider Plea Options: Discuss with your attorney whether to fight the charge at trial or consider a plea deal. Plea bargaining might result in reduced charges or lighter sentencing.
8. Prepare For Court: In the event you go to trial at the Whatcom County Courts, your defense attorney will work closely with you to prepare your testimony and defense. For example, you may rehearse your testimony and learn questions the prosecutors may ask.
9. Explore Alternative Sentencing: Depending on your history and the specifics of the theft, you might be eligible for an alternative to traditional sentencing, including diversion programs. These programs often involve restitution and community service but might allow you to avoid a criminal record.
10. Stay Informed And Proactive: Keep yourself up to date on any developments in your case by maintaining regular communication with your attorney and staying engaged with your legal proceedings.

How you handle a theft charge can significantly impact the outcome of your case. To achieve the best possible result, securing the help of a Bellingham attorney specializing in theft defense is crucial.

What You Need To Know About Washington's Theft Laws

As your attorney, you must have a clear understanding of the legal framework surrounding theft charges in Washington State, as well as any applicable federal laws that might affect your case. The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 9A.56.020 states that theft involves illegally acquiring or exercising control over another person's property or services without permission, with the intention of depriving them of it.

Under Washington law, there are three degrees of robbery, including:

• First-Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.030): Theft of property or services valued over $5,000 or theft (including a firearm) from another person
• Second-Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.040): Involves damage to property or services valued from $750 to $5,000
• Third-Degree Theft (RCW 9A.56.050): This is for property or services valued under $750. Shoplifting charges are typically prosecuted under the statute for third-degree theft but can escalate depending on the value of the items stolen or prior convictions.

Federal laws may also come into play if the theft involves interstate commerce or federal property. Here are some scenarios where federal charges could impact your case:

• Theft Of Government Property (18 U.S.C. § 641): The act of stealing, selling, or transferring any record, voucher, money, or valuable item belonging to the United States or any of its departments or agencies can lead to federal charges.
• Interstate Transportation Of Stolen Property (18 U.S.C. § 2314): If the stolen property crosses state lines, the courts may prosecute you under federal law. The penalties are severe if the value of the goods exceeds $5,000.

Apart from criminal penalties, you might also face civil demands for restitution. Victims may seek compensation not just for the value of the stolen items but also for damages, which can significantly exceed the value of the stolen goods.

Penalties For Theft Under Washington Law

Under Washington law, the penalties for theft depend on the degree of robbery you're charged with, which is determined by the value of the property or services stolen and other circumstances of the crime. Here's a breakdown of the penalties associated with each degree of theft:

• First-Degree Theft
  • Class B felony
  • Value of Property or Services: Over $5,000 / theft of a firearm (regardless of its value) / theft committed directly from another person (not just pickpocketing but any theft directly off the person)
  • Penalties: Up to 10 years of incarceration and/or a fine of up to $20,000
• Second-Degree Theft
  • Class C felony
  • Value of Property or Services: Between $750 and $5,000
  • Penalties: Up to 5 years incarceration and/or a fine of up to $10,000
• Third-Degree Theft
  • Gross Misdemeanor
  • Value of Property or Services: Less than $750
  • Penalties: Up to 1 year of incarceration and/or a fine of up to $5,000

If you face multiple charges of theft, the penalties can be cumulative, leading to a more severe punishment. Further, specific circumstances, such as prior convictions, can enhance the severity of the charges and penalties. Along with facing criminal penalties, the Whatcom County Courts may require you to pay restitution to any victim(s) for the value of the stolen property and potentially for additional damages.

How A Theft Conviction Can Harm Your Life

Beyond immediate legal penalties such as fines, incarceration, or probation, the long-term effects of a theft conviction can be severe, profoundly and permanently impacting your life. Having a conviction of a crime of moral turpitude damages your reputation, which could make it difficult to secure employment, particularly in positions that include managing money or accessing sensitive information. It can also hinder your ability to find housing, as many landlords are reluctant to rent to individuals with criminal records.

Additionally, a theft conviction may impact your educational opportunities, with some colleges and financial aid programs considering criminal history in their admissions and funding decisions. For non-citizens, such a conviction could lead to immigration issues, including deportation or ineligibility for visas or permanent residency.

Overall, the stigma and restrictions associated with a theft conviction can significantly hinder your social mobility and ability to integrate fully into society.

Why You Need A Theft Defense Attorney To Handle Your Whatcom Case

If you're facing a theft charge in Whatcom County, hiring a knowledgeable theft defense attorney is crucial for several reasons:

1. Access Local Legal Knowledge: An attorney familiar with the Whatcom County court system will have specific insights into local laws and procedures. They'll also likely have established relationships with the prosecuting attorneys and judges at the Whatcom County Courts.
2. Get A Detailed Defense Strategy Development: Every theft case has unique circumstances. A seasoned defense attorney will analyze the evidence against you and may challenge it based on how the prosecution obtained it, question the stated value of the stolen items to reduce the charges or argue a lack of intent.
3. Leverage Effective Negotiation Skills: Whatcom County Courts resolve most theft cases through plea bargaining. An experienced Bellingham attorney will negotiate on your behalf to reduce the charges or the severity of the penalties. They can also negotiate for alternative sentences, which might ultimately lead to the Whatcom County Court dismissing the charges upon successful completion.
4. Protect Your Rights: A theft defense attorney will ensure that you are treated fairly under the law and address any procedural mistakes or rights violations, leading to a potential reduction or dismissal of charges.
5. Mitigate The Consequences Of Conviction: The consequences of a theft conviction extend beyond immediate penalties and can impact your future employment, housing, and educational opportunities. A Bellingham attorney specializing in theft can work to minimize these long-term effects, aiming for outcomes that avoid a criminal record or reduce the visibility of one.
6. Have Support At Your Trial: If your theft charge proceeds to trial in Whatcom County, having a skilled attorney is crucial for delivering persuasive opening and closing statements, effectively cross-examining witnesses, and presenting a solid case for the jury. Your Bellingham attorney's expertise could be instrumental in securing a not-guilty verdict.

Given the complexities and the potential for a significant impact on your life, the guidance of a defense attorney with specific experience in theft cases in Whatcom County is invaluable. If you’re facing a theft charge, we’re here to help.

Call us now to get a free consultation with our Bellingham theft attorneys.