Impactful Theft Lawyer in Nashville, TN

Theft in Tennessee is the unlawful taking of another person's property to deprive the owner of that property permanently. Theft also occurs when a person obtains services without paying, through fraudulent means or pretenses, or uses services intended for someone else's benefit.

Based on how much the property or services involved in the offense are worth, Tennessee classifies the following penalties for theft:

• CLASS A MISDEMEANOR THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services is $1,000 or less, the theft offense is considered a Class A misdemeanor. A conviction is punishable by a maximum prison term of 11 months and 29 days and a fine of up to $2,500. However, individuals convicted of Class A misdemeanor theft often receive a suspended sentence, fine or restitution only, work release, or community service instead of incarceration.
• CLASS E FELONY THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services is less than $2,500, the theft offense is considered a Class E felony. Getting convicted carries a prison sentence of up to six years and a maximum fine of $3,000.
• CLASS D FELONY THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services ranges from $2,500 to less than $10,000, the theft offense is considered a Class D felony. A conviction is punishable by imprisonment for up to 12 years and a maximum fine of $5,000.
• CLASS C FELONY THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services is between $10,000 and less than $60,000, the theft offense is considered a Class C felony. Getting convicted carries a maximum prison sentence of 15 years and a fine of up to $10,000.
• CLASS B FELONY THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services ranges from $60,000 to less than $250,000, the theft offense is considered a Class B felony. A conviction is punishable by imprisonment for up to 30 years and a maximum fine of $25,000.
• CLASS A FELONY THEFT: If the value of the stolen property or services is $250,000, the theft offense is considered a Class A felony. Getting convicted carries a prison term of up to 60 years and a fine not exceeding $50,000.

Shoplifting is one of the most common forms of theft. It occurs when a person deprives a store owner of their merchandise by concealing or removing the item, switching or altering the price tag, transferring it from one container to another, using a device or tool to commit the offense, or disabling any security devices.

Shoplifting carries the same penalties as theft. However, if the value of the stolen merchandise is less than $500, the State may allow a store owner to sue an offender in civil court rather than pursue criminal charges.

You can build a strong defense team to help you if you have been accused of theft. A strong defense includes an experienced criminal defense attorney and any other experts who may be able to help your case. Andrew C. Beasley is an effective criminal defense attorney who gathers strategic evidence to support your claim. This may include witness statements, documents, or other evidence that can assist your case.

Andrew C. Beasley has handled many theft cases over his career as a lawyer. He will work diligently to ensure that the evidence gathered in support of your case is presented correctly and effectively.