Theft Charges Require A Skilled Defense

Pennsylvania takes shoplifting, burglary, robbery, car theft and other theft crimes seriously. If you’ve been charged with theft, contact Ramsay & Ramsay, PC, immediately. Attorneys Tom and Marissa Ramsay will begin your defense immediately, taking proactive steps to help reduce your charges and secure the best outcome possible.

As a former Deputy District Attorney, Tom Ramsay knows the best outcomes often come through negotiation. That is why he always attempts to work out a beneficial solution with the prosecution before going to court. However, if litigation is necessary to protect your rights, he and Marissa Ramsay will fight for you in court.

A Conviction Will Stay With You For Life

In Pennsylvania, the severity of theft charges is based on the value of the property stolen, the type of property stolen and whether the property was taken from a person:

• Stolen property valued less than $2,000 will generally be charged as a misdemeanor.
• Felony theft charges arise when stolen property is valued above $2,000, the property is taken directly from another person, the property is taken by force or threat of force or the stolen property is an automobile.

Misdemeanor convictions carry anywhere from one to five years in jail and fines up to $10,000. Felony convictions may result in anywhere from one to 20 years in prison and fines up to $25,000. In addition to jail and fines, a conviction will stay on your record for life, and may make it difficult to obtain a job or housing.

Building Your Defense

Successful defense strategies are built on a foundation of investigation, legal research and skill. That is the approach taken by Ramsay & Ramsay, PC. The attorneys consider the circumstance of the case, the law at issue and any personal facts that will help you successfully defend the charges against you.

Many people who are charged with theft crimes have underlying addiction or mental health problems. When these issues exist, the firm works with addiction counselors and medical professionals to obtain diagnosis and develop treatment plans. They also interview family members and friends.

This information is helpful both during negotiations and during trial. Explaining to prosecutors, judges and juries how these issues have impacted the defendant’s life — during negotiations and at trial — often secures reduced penalties and overall better results.

Get Started On Your Defense

Located in West Chester, Ramsay & Ramsay, PC, defends individuals throughout Chester County against theft crimes. To schedule a consultation, contact the firm online or call 610-235-4000.