Arrested On Theft Charges In Lafayette? Protect Your Freedom Today.

A person who is facing theft charges has been charged with taking something that does not belong to him or her. Therefore, theft charges can arise from many types of situations. As a defense attorney, I am knowledgeable about the many ways in which theft charges can be brought. I am devoted to reaching the best possible outcome for you, given the specific charges you face.

Theft charges can include retail theft, corporate embezzlement, credit card fraud and car theft. Whatever type of defense you require, contact me, a St. Martin Parish corporate embezzlement attorney, today. At the law firm of Donald D. Cleveland, APLC, in Lafayette, Louisiana, my legal practice is built on professionalism, integrity and compassion.

Comprehensive Defense Against Property And Financial Theft Charges

As a Lafayette theft defense lawyer, I know that an arrest puts your future at stake. You need an attorney who will stand up for you, challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for an outcome that allows you to move forward.

I provide focused criminal defense for individuals throughout Lafayette, St. Martin Parish and neighboring parishes along the I-10 corridor, covering a wide range of allegations:

• Retail and store-related offenses: Defending against shoplifting and merchandise theft claims, from simple retail disputes to organized retail theft allegations.
• Personal and motor property claims: Addressing allegations involving stolen vehicles, car break-ins, residential burglary and unauthorized entry.
• White collar and corporate offenses: Representing employees and business professionals accused of workplace embezzlement, corporate misappropriation or fiduciary theft.
• Deceptive and identity-based crimes: Managing complex cases such as credit card abuse, unauthorized bank transfers, phishing schemes and general fraud accusations.
• Government and healthcare inquiries: Handling severe state or federal claims involving alleged Medicare, Medicaid or public program misuse.
• Serious confrontational offenses: Protecting individuals facing elevated charges that involve alleged force or weapons, including robbery and armed robbery.

No matter the scale of the charge, each situation requires a personalized defense tailored to the exact facts of your case. I work to minimize penalties, negotiate reductions or seek a full dismissal of your charges.

What Could A Theft Conviction Lead To?

In Louisiana, the penalties for theft depend on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the crime. Theft involving items worth less than $1,000 is usually a misdemeanor, which can lead to a fine and up to six months in jail. However, if the stolen property is worth more, the crime becomes a felony, leading to harsher penalties. For example, stealing something worth over $5,000 can result in up to 10 years in prison and significant fines.

Additionally, if the theft involves breaking into a home or using a weapon, the consequences are even more severe. The penalties for these charges could involve many years in prison.

Three Potential Defenses Against Theft Charges

An arrest is not a conviction. Depending on the specifics of your case, I examine how the police handled your arrest. I use proven legal strategies to help get your charges reduced or dismissed:

• Lack of intent: Demonstrating that you honestly believed the item was yours or that you had explicit permission to use it.
• Claim of rightful ownership: Establishing a legal right or valid ownership claim to the property involved.
• Mistaken identity and false accusations: Challenging unreliable eyewitness testimony, flawed evidence collection or unlawful conduct by law enforcement.

Successfully using these defenses often requires compelling evidence and a persuasive argument in court.

What Should You Do If Charged With Theft?

If you find yourself facing theft charges in Louisiana, you should take immediate and careful actions. First, exercise your right to remain silent and do not discuss the details of the case with anyone but your lawyer.

Contact a skilled criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the charges against you, the possible defenses and how to protect your rights during the legal process.

Make sure to gather any documents or evidence that could support your case, such as receipts or witness statements that prove ownership or lack of intent to steal. Following these steps and working closely with your attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

Compassionate Representation Without Judgment

I know that times are hard for many people, and I understand that a lot of people commit theft as a means to survive. For example, poverty and hunger can compel otherwise honest individuals to steal for their families. Or, people who suffer from drug and/or alcohol addictions can take drastic measures to feed their addiction. I understand the nature of people and what a desperate situation can do to someone’s judgment.

Take Control Of Your Case – Contact Us Right Now

Do not wait to start building your defense. Reach out to Donald D. Cleveland, APLC, today to speak directly with an attorney who will stand up and fight for you. You can call directly at 337-572-9874 or send a message online to schedule a consultation.

The office is conveniently located near downtown Lafayette, serving clients from Jefferson Davis Parish to St. Martin Parish and communities across the Interstate 10 corridor. If your schedule requires it, evening and weekend appointments are readily available upon request.