Petit theft refers to the act of taking another person’s property, permanently or otherwise without the consent of the owner. This is a misdemeanor offense. However, theft can be considered as felony also, depending on the situation.
Whether you will be charged with a felony theft or a misdemeanor depends circumstances surrounding the crime and your background. If you do not have any prior criminal record, you may be charged with misdemeanor. But, if there is a criminal or prior arrest record, you may end up with a felony theft charge.
The value of the stolen property plays a major role in deciding whether this will be a misdemeanor or felony offense too. This is a state governed law and the decision of charging with either felony or misdemeanor depends on the law of the state you are arrested in.
In case, this is your first offense and the value of the stolen property is lesser than $300, you may be sentenced to prison time for six months. You may have to serve probation time. There may a fine of $500 for committing this offense.
Seek immediate consultations with experienced criminal attorneys. They will explain the law regarding this offense and provide you with proper legal guidance too. Remember to act quickly and hire an attorney as fast as you can to protect your rights and freedom.
Author Bio:
Dave Watson, a consultant, is giving suggestion to visit criminal attorneys for more information about the relative subject.
