Knoxville Theft Crime Lawyer

Defending Against Theft Crime Charges in Tennessee

After being charged with any type of theft crime, emotions of regret and humiliation are likely just the start of what you will be feeling as the judicial process begins. At the Law Office of Joseph A. Fanduzz, we can help you eliminate some of the stressful aspects of your case so that the focus can be on aggressively defending your freedom. Facing the charge of theft will not be an easy experience, which is why you should obtain the attentive and personalized assistance of our Knoxville theft defense lawyer.

If you are facing charges for a theft crime in Tennessee, contact our Knoxville theft defense attorney to discuss your options today. 

Understanding Theft Charges in Tennessee

Theft offense cases, whether charged as misdemeanors or felonies, can be very intense. The severity of your case will greatly depend on the amount of goods or services that have been allegedly stolen. In the state of Tennessee, theft crimes are considered misdemeanors if the amount of goods stolen is $1,000 or less. Theft of an amount greater than $1,000 will be classified as a felony.

Misdemeanor theft is punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in prison and/or a fine of up to $2,5000. Felony theft penalties vary based on the value of property or services that were stolen. On one end, a Class E felony theft (where more than $500 was stolen, but less than $1,000) is punishable by a prison term of 1-6 years and a fine of up to $3,000. On the most severe end, a Class B felony theft (where the stolen property was valued at $60,000 or more) is punishable by 8-30 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000.

Some of the most common theft crimes that our clients face include:

• Larceny
• Burglary
• Shoplifting
• Forgery
• Petit theft
• Grand theft
• Auto theft
• Embezzlement

In some cases, white collar crimes are also classified as theft. Theft of property involves knowingly obtaining or taking control of property without the owner's consent. Theft of services refers to fraudulent or deceptive practices that result from receiving services without paying full value. Regardless of the charge you face, our Knoxville theft crime attorney can fight for your freedom and create a strong defense strategy. We can challenge the elements of the case and evidence submitted against you by the prosecution using information gained from a detailed investigation of our own.

What are the Penalties for Theft Offenses in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, the penalties for theft depend on the value of the property or services that were stolen. Possible classifications and penalties for theft in Tennessee include:

• Class A misdemeanor ($1,000 or less): punishable by up to a $2,500 fine and/or up to 11 months and 29 days imprisonment
• Class E felony (over $1,000 but less than $2,500): punishable by up to a $3,000 fine and one to six years imprisonment
• Class D felony ($2,500 or more but less than $10,000): punishable by up to a $5,000 fine and two to 12 years imprisonment
• Class C felony ($10,000 or more but less than $60,000): punishable by up to a $10,000 fine and three to 15 years imprisonment
• Class B felony ($60,000 or more but less than $250,000): punishable by up to a $25,000 fine and eight to 30 years imprisonment
• Class A felony ($250,000 or more): punishable by up to a $50,000 fine and 15 to 60 years imprisonment

Facing charges for a theft crimes? Don't wait to get started. Contact us today to arrange a free case evaluation.