Champaign Petit Theft Lawyers

Petit theft, also known as petty theft, is the most minor thievery offense that you can commit. Despite its lesser criminal status, however, a petit theft charge can still tarnish your criminal record and make it difficult for you to obtain jobs, be accepted into school, or be approved for loans. If you have been arrested and accused of petit theft, then a capable and qualified criminal defense lawyer may be able to fight the charge.

Being charged with any form of theft, even petit theft, can be devastating to your basic rights and freedoms. The Champaign petit theft lawyers of Bruno Law Offices are dedicated to providing a solid defense for people in your situation. We are here to stand up for you and will do all that we can to get the charges against you reduced or dropped. Contact us today at (217) 328-6000or fill out a contact form to schedule a consultation and get the aggressive legal representation you need.

Why do I need a lawyer?

Though petit theft is a relatively minor crime, it still comes with potentially life-changing penalties. There is always the possibility of fines or jail time, which can disrupt your life. Worse, however, is the criminal record which will follow you for the rest of your life. It could make it more difficult to get a job, get accepted into a school, or be approved for loans, preventing you from buying a house or car. Your reputation can be permanently damaged after just one mistake or false accusation.

With so much on the line, you cannot afford to try to represent yourself or leave your case up to an overworked public defender. A petit theft defense attorney can investigate the details of your case and determine the best defense strategy for you. They have the knowledge and skills it takes to try to minimize the consequences of your accusation. When choosing a lawyer to represent you, don’t trust your case to an inexperienced or apathetic lawyer. Instead, choose a legal team that has successfully defended others who were charged with the same crime. That way, you know that your attorney has the skill necessary to present a convincing defense.

Why Choose Us?

The capable and experienced petit theft lawyers at Bruno Law Offices have provided outstanding legal representation for clients that have been accused of petit theft and other crimes since 1980. They give you the personalized attention that a public defender won’t, no matter how small your case may seem. The lawyers at Bruno Law Offices are ready to fight to protect your rights and your freedom. You need a zealous advocate to fight for you and keep this conviction off your record. For help defending yourself and your future, contact the petit theft lawyers at Bruno Law Offices.

Illinois Petit Theft Law

The definition of and punishment for petit theft varies from state to state. In Illinois, depending on the method of stealing, petit theft includes the unlawful taking of property valued anywhere between $150 and $300. First offenses are charged as misdemeanors, and those cited for petty theft will face up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2500. Repeat offenses, however, may be considered as felonies. In these cases, the punishment will be far more severe.

Shoplifting, stealing bicycles, and taking small items from someone’s home or office are all offenses that may be considered acts of petit theft. Stealing larger items, however, elevates the crime to the grand theft level.

Defenses Against Petit Theft

Petit theft charges are often levied based on surveillance footage and eyewitness testimony. There are several possible common defenses you can use to combat these accusations. The best defense for you will depend on the particular circumstances of your case. However, common defenses to a petit theft charge include:

  • A claim of right or ownership of property
  • Intoxication
  • Mistaken identity
  • Forgetting about items in pockets/bag
  • Items not found in possession
  • Lack of intent to steal

A lawyer from Bruno Law Offices will be able to discuss the details of your case with you and determine what the best defense strategy is for you. With the right defense, you may be able to get the charges reduced or dropped, or be found not guilty in court.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with petit theft, then you will need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to protect you in court. The Champaign-Urbana theft lawyers of Bruno Law Offices have the experience necessary to help you. Contact us today by calling (217) 328-6000.