Theft Attorney in Murrysville, Pennsylvania

Being charged with theft can often leave you feeling anxious, ashamed, or uncertain about the future. Even a minor theft accusation can carry serious legal and personal consequences, and it's common to fear that you will be defined by one mistake or misunderstanding.

These feelings are normal, especially when your reputation, job, and relationships are on the line. That’s why it’s essential to have legal guidance that’s focused on protecting your rights and helping you move forward.

At the Law Offices of James Crosby, we’re committed to standing beside those accused of theft. Our attorney, James Crosby, has built a strong record of helping clients fight criminal charges and regain control of their lives. Located in Murrysville, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in the nearby areas, including Harrison City, Greensburg, Latrobe, and Westmoreland County.

If you’ve been accused of theft, you don’t have to face the criminal justice system alone. Reach out to us today at the Law Offices of James Crosby to discuss your case and explore your options with a qualified theft attorney.

What Qualifies as Theft in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, “theft” covers a wide range of acts involving the unlawful taking of another person’s property. Under state law, theft occurs when someone intentionally takes or keeps property that belongs to someone else without their permission and with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of it.

Theft can involve money, goods, or services, and it doesn’t always involve physically taking something from another person. Some of the types of theft offenses that are recognized under Pennsylvania law include:

• Theft by unlawful taking or disposition: Taking someone’s movable property (such as cash or personal items) without consent.
  

• Theft by deception: Using false statements or deceit to obtain property or money from another person.
  

• Theft by extortion: Threatening another person to gain property or financial advantage.
  

• Theft of lost or mislaid property: Keeping property that you found that should reasonably be returned to its owner.
  

• Receiving stolen property: Possessing and retaining property that is known or believed to be stolen.
  

• Retail theft (shoplifting): Taking merchandise from a retail store without paying for it, altering price tags, or otherwise attempting to avoid payment.
  

• Theft of services: Using services such as utilities, transportation, or accommodations without authorization or payment.

Each form of theft carries its own set of penalties, depending on the circumstances and the value of the property involved. Since Pennsylvania theft laws are detailed and vary by situation, it’s important to work with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who can identify the nature of your charges and develop a strategy tailored to your case.

Penalties for Theft in Pennsylvania

The penalties for theft in Pennsylvania depend on several factors, including the type of theft, the value of the property, and whether the accused has prior offenses. Theft can be charged as a summary offense, misdemeanor, or felony, each carrying different consequences. Some common examples of theft classifications and penalties include:

• Summary offense theft: Involving property worth less than $50; punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $300.
  

• Third-degree misdemeanor: Theft involving property valued between $50 and $200; punishable by up to one year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
  

• Second-degree misdemeanor: Theft of property valued between $200 and $2,000; punishable by up to two years in jail and a $5,000 fine.
  

• First-degree misdemeanor: Theft of property valued over $2,000 or theft of a motor vehicle or firearm; punishable by up to five years in prison.
  

• Third-degree felony: Theft involving property worth more than $2,000, theft from a person, or theft involving a firearm; punishable by up to seven years in prison.
  

• Second-degree felony: Theft involving property valued over $100,000 but less than $500,000; punishable by up to ten years in prison.
  

• First-degree felony: Theft of property valued over $500,000 or involving a trade secret; punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Apart from imprisonment and fines, a theft conviction can leave a lasting mark on your record. This can affect your ability to get a job, rent housing, or qualify for specific licenses. If you have been accused of theft, it's vital to act quickly to protect your record and future opportunities. Consider working with a theft attorney who understands the legal process, as this can significantly affect how your case unfolds.

Consequences of a Theft Conviction

Beyond fines and jail time, a theft conviction can create serious long-term consequences that affect your future opportunities. It’s considered a crime of dishonesty, which can make employers, landlords, and even lenders hesitant to trust someone with a theft record. Some common consequences of a theft conviction can include:

• Employment challenges: Employers often view theft convictions as a sign of untrustworthiness, which can make job searches difficult.

• Housing limitations: Landlords and property managers may deny applications due to criminal records involving theft.

• Educational barriers: Some colleges and universities may revoke scholarships or deny admission to applicants with criminal records.

• Financial restrictions: Theft convictions can often limit access to loans or government programs.

• Reputational harm: Even after serving time or paying fines, the social stigma of a theft conviction can linger for years.

Due to these far-reaching effects, consulting skilled legal representation as soon as possible can help you mitigate potential challenges. By challenging the case and exploring alternatives such as diversion programs or expungement, we can help protect your record and your reputation.

Steps to Take After a Theft Arrest

If you or a loved one has been arrested for theft, the actions you take immediately afterward can significantly affect the outcome of your case. Remember to remain calm and avoid unnecessary communication with law enforcement. After a theft arrest, consider taking the following steps:

1. Exercise your right to remain silent: Anything you say can be used against you in court. Politely decline to answer questions until your lawyer is present.

2. Contact a lawyer immediately: A prompt consultation helps preserve your rights and gives your defense the best possible start.

3. Avoid discussing the case: Refrain from talking about your case with anyone apart from your attorney.

4. Gather important documents: Keep records of your arrest, bail, and any communication from the court.

5. Attend all hearings: Missing court appearances can result in additional penalties and complicate your defense.

Taking these steps shows responsibility and helps protect your case from unnecessary complications. Once you involve an attorney, they will handle all communication with the court and law enforcement so you can focus on preparing for the next steps.

How Our Firm Can Help

When you’re accused of theft, you need more than just legal advice—you need someone who will take the time to listen, investigate, and advocate for your rights in court. At the Law Offices of James Crosby, we focus on providing the legal support our clients deserve from the initial consultation to the final resolution. Some of the ways we can assist our clients facing theft accusations include the following.

• Thorough case evaluation: We examine police reports, witness statements, and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
  

• Exploring defense options: We look for opportunities to reduce charges, seek dismissals, or pursue diversion programs that may help avoid conviction.
  

• Courtroom advocacy: When a case proceeds to trial, we present a strong defense based on facts, evidence, and your constitutional rights.
  

• Negotiation with prosecutors: In some situations, a plea agreement or reduced charge may lead to a more favorable outcome.
  

• Protecting your record: Whenever possible, we pursue options such as expungement or record sealing to help our clients move forward without a lasting criminal record.

Our goal is to minimize the impact of theft charges and help clients restore their peace of mind. Every case is unique, and we approach each one with care and attention to detail. Whether the accusation stems from a misunderstanding, a one-time mistake, or a wrongful charge, we believe every client deserves fair treatment.

Why Our Clients Trust the Law Offices of James Crosby

Over the years, our law firm has built a reputation for dedication and honesty in representing clients across Westmoreland County and the surrounding areas. Our clients trust Attorney James Crosby because of his experience in both prosecution and defense—giving him unique insight into how criminal cases are built and how to challenge them effectively.

We’ve helped individuals accused of theft find paths toward resolution, whether that means reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal. We take the time to explain every stage of the process so clients know what to expect and feel confident in their decisions.

At our firm, you’ll never be treated as just another case. You’ll receive personal attention from a theft attorney, with straightforward communication and a defense strategy tailored to your situation and goals.