Baton Rouge Theft Crime Attorney  

Common Theft Crimes in Baton Rouge 

Louisiana does not categorize theft offenses using terms like "petty theft" or "grand theft" commonly found in other states. Instead, the state's theft statute classifies theft as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the stolen property. The penalties for a conviction can vary greatly, with misdemeanor theft carrying less severe consequences than felony theft. However, even a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting effects on your life, making it essential to have knowledgeable legal representation when facing theft charges in Baton Rouge. 

Misdemeanor Theft (Theft Under $1,000) 

In Louisiana, theft is classified as a misdemeanor when the stolen property is valued at less than $1,000. The penalties for this offense can include up to six months in prison and a maximum fine of $1,000. While a misdemeanor theft conviction is less severe than a felony conviction, it can still significantly impact your personal and professional life, especially if you have a criminal record. 

At Pierce & Shows, we understand how even a misdemeanor theft charge can have long-lasting effects on your future. Our attorneys take a meticulous approach to investigating every detail of your situation, looking for potential flaws in the prosecution’s evidence or mistakes made during your arrest. Whether it's challenging the value of the property or questioning the procedures that led to the charge, our goal is to minimize the potential consequences of a misdemeanor theft conviction.  

Felony Theft (Theft Over $1,000) 

Felony theft charges in Louisiana apply when the value of the stolen property exceeds $1,000. The penalties for felony theft increase with the value of the stolen property: 

• $1,000 to $5,000: A conviction could result in up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000. 
• $5,000 to $25,000: A conviction can led to up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. 
• More than $25,000: The penalties can be severe, with a conviction potentially resulting in up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $50,000. 

Given the severity of felony theft penalties, it's essential to have experienced legal representation to build a strong defense. At Pierce & Shows, we focus on investigating every aspect of the case, including questioning the valuation of stolen property and reviewing all evidence for inconsistencies or errors. Our team will thoroughly examine police procedures and work to identify any violations of your rights that could impact the charges. With our help, we will fight to reduce or even dismiss the charges against you whenever possible, working toward the best possible outcome for your future.