Cleveland Theft Crime Attorney
The Cleveland Theft Defense Lawyers Who Can Think Like Prosecutors
At Patituce & Associates, LLC, our experienced team of Cleveland theft crime attorneys is made of former prosecutors. We know how the state will build its case, what evidence it will prioritize, and what weaknesses every criminal case has. We know how prosecutors think, and because we’re never afraid to go into a courtroom to defend our clients, we know how juries tend to evaluate evidence and arrive at their decisions. If you’ve been charged with theft, contact our Cleveland theft crime lawyers.
We can provide you with the highest quality legal defense when you are facing theft charges. Whatever the specifics or level of the charges, we’ve beaten charges like them before; we can help you mount a credible defense a jury can understand. If you’re facing theft charges, let us protect your rights and fight for the best outcome possible.
To beat theft and fraud charges in Ohio, you need experienced Cleveland theft crime attorneys who know the case that the prosecution will build and can fight back against it. Call now at (440) 771-1175!
Get the Best Defense Attorney You Can If You’re Facing Theft Charges in Ohio
Whatever you may have done in the past, it’s important that the choices you make today reflect your desire to avoid conviction and stay out of jail. First, you need to hire an experienced Cleveland criminal defense attorney who can forcefully safeguard your interests and rights. Many people don’t understand the seriousness of the charges they’re facing, risking their future on a public defender or an inexperienced lawyer in their social circle.
This may have consequences you’ll have to deal with for the rest of your life. Public defenders work hard and provide an admirable service to the community, but they’re also overworked and often prefer for their clients to take a plea deal—even when it may not be the best option. If you’re convicted of a theft crime, you can face anywhere from 6 months in jail to 10 years in state prison, then remain stuck with a criminal record for the rest of your life.
We understand that your specific situation requires individualized attention, and we are dedicated to providing just that.
No Case is Hopeless
We Don't Back Down. Ever.
Explore some of our recent wins.
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Case Dismissed CLEVELAND V. AL-NAZER (2012 TRC 040781)
Our client was accused of driving while under the influence of drugs, or alcohol.
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Not Guilty At Trial ROCKY RIVER V. D.F.
Client was charged with domestic violence against his wife.
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Plea and Record Expunged STATE V. BAILEY, CUYAHOGA
Client was accused of stealing tens of thousands of dollars worth of property.
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Charges Dismissed State v. Beckwith, Cuyahoga County
Student charged with the manufacturing of ecstasy.
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Case Dismissed STATE V. J.S. (A JUVENILE) YOUNGSTOWN
Local counsel pushed for a plea to one of the sex related charges.
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Acquittal State v. Tevin Biles
Client was identified as one of the alleged shooters at a New Year’s Eve party.
Understanding the Different Penalties for Theft
Cleveland prosecutors will grade a charge of receiving stolen property according to the value of stolen property received, in keeping with the structure of other theft crimes. The lowest grade of the charge, reserved for property worth less than $1,000, is a first‑degree misdemeanor with a sentence of up to 6 months. As the values increase, so will the level of the charges.
As a fifth‑degree felony, theft of goods between $1,000 and $7,500 can put you away for 6 months to 1 year. Penalties for values between $7,500 and $149,000 are fourth‑degree felonies, with a 12–18 month sentence possible, plus fines and restitution. If the value of goods was between $150,000 and $749,000, you’ll be charged with a third‑degree felony, which could produce a sentence of up to 5 years in prison.
$750,000 to $1,500,000 in value will produce a second‑degree felony charge and possibly put you in prison for 2–8 years. If you’ve stolen more than $1.5 million, you will be facing a first‑degree felony charge and up to a 10‑year sentence.
Receiving Stolen Property (O.R.C. 2913.51)
If you are caught in possession of goods obtained via theft, you can be charged with receiving stolen property by Cleveland prosecutors—even if you weren’t part of the theft. The state is required to prove that you knew or had reasonable cause to believe that the property in question was obtained illegally.
This requirement means that an experienced Cleveland theft crime attorney can make a big difference for your future.
Finding of Value of Stolen Property as Part of Verdict (O.R.C. 2913.61)
In Ohio theft and fraud cases, a defendant will be charged based on the value of the money or goods that are alleged to have been stolen. “Finding of the value of the stolen property as part of the verdict” is a statute that directs judges and juries in Cleveland to find the appropriate value of the stolen goods. This is an extremely dangerous statute for a defendant because it allows a series of small thefts to be tallied together to create an aggregate value.
To put it plainly, a misdemeanor offense can easily become a felony under O.R.C. 2913.61. Similarly, if victims are elderly or disabled adults, and theft crimes are committed through one’s employment relationship, all instances can be prosecuted together. When you’re facing theft charges of any kind in Cleveland, you run the risk of significant jail time and a felony record that can close off opportunities for the rest of your life.
Fifth Degree Regardless of the Value of the Property (O.R.C. 2913.71)
Regardless of the value of the property, O.R.C. 2913.71 states that theft and receiving stolen property crimes involving certain items are always to be prosecuted as fifth‑degree felonies, which can lead to a 6–12 month term of incarceration. When theft involves credit cards, forged checks, stolen motor vehicle license plates, blank forms for vehicle titles, or blank forms for Ohio drivers’ licenses, O.R.C. 2913.71 will come into play. When prosecutors find evidence that any of these items were involved, your charges can be elevated.
Request a Free Theft Defense Consultation
Theft, especially at the felony level, is often charged alongside other criminal complaints in Cleveland, including conspiracy and fraud. At any level, a theft conviction will have a substantial negative impact on your future employment prospects, and a felony conviction will make many opportunities and public services unavailable to you. The Cleveland theft crime lawyers at Patituce & Associates, LLC can protect your rights and fight for your freedom.
Call (440) 771-1175 for a free consultation with an experienced Cleveland theft defense attorney.
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We Know the Legal System
Our criminal defense attorneys understand the legal system and local courts, helping you navigate your case efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.
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We Give You Peace of Mind
Being charged with a crime is overwhelming. With our team on your side, you can focus on your life while an experienced professional handles your defense.
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We Fight For Your Rights
Police and prosecutors sometimes push the limits of the law. We work to protect your rights and prevent unconstitutional evidence from being used against you.
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We Build A Strategic Defense
Fighting criminal charges requires a strong strategy. Our experienced team builds a defense tailored to the specific facts of your case.
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We Work to Mitigate Consequences
One of the main benefits of hiring our Ohio criminal defense attorneys is our ability to help reduce the potential consequences of a conviction.
