subject: Reasons You Really Want A Petty Theft Defense Attorney To Represent You [print this page] Have you been charged with a petty theft crime? For anyone that has, you need to learn the reasons it is always smart to hire a petty theft defense attorney representing you.
There are many reasons that you have to learn about now so you can see why you need to have legal representation from a good lawyer from the beginning. Below are the most vital reasons for you to be made aware of now.
One: Informal resolution - When you hire an attorney right after you are arrested for the petty theft crime, they will be able to seek an informal resolution that will more than likely require you to pay restitution, but your case will never have to go through court.
Of course, this is all going to depend on what you were accused of stealing and who you stole it from. Being able to get your case resolved without the courts will be a huge benefit for you and a lot less costly.
Two: Experience and knowledge - Petty theft may not seem like a big crime to be charged with, but having to spend any time in jail is not a small deal to anyone. A good attorney will have the knowledge and experience needed to ensure that the sentence you receive for your crime is fair according to the law.
Of course your past petty theft history is going to be taken into consideration, along with your mental state and a few other things before the sentence is handed out. If you have a history of petty theft, you need to expect your sentence to be more severe.
The lawyer has the knowledge and experience to ensure your legal rights are being upheld and that you are not being treated unfairly, but your history is definitely going to be taken into consideration.
Three: More serious charge - There are times where you could be charged with a petty theft, only to find out later that it has been classified as a grand larceny charge instead. For example, there are states that if you steal items that are over $200, this will make the charge grand larceny, which has a harsher sentence and not just a petty crime.
The attorney will be able to help you obtain the best legal help for you, no matter which position you find yourself in with the law
Now that you understand the reasons why it is smart to have a petty theft defense attorney representing you, you have to decide if this is the course you are going to take for your legal troubles. Just remember that having a good attorney is your best defense against even bigger legal troubles than you currently find yourself in.
