Theft Offenses

Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Lawyer

Theft is the illegal taking of another person's property without that person's freely-given consent and with the intent to deprive that person of their property. The severity of the penalty for a theft offense is based upon the value of the property taken and the circumstances of how it was taken. Many people who are facing criminal charges for theft are facing their first encounter with the criminal justice system. If you have been charged with shoplifting, writing a bad check, unauthorized use of an automobile or any other theft offense, you may not understand your rights.  You need an experienced criminal defense lawyer to explain and protect your rights.

I have a thorough understanding of theft crimes in Pennsylvania and will provide competent and aggressive defense to those charged with any type of theft, whether you are charged with shoplifting, misdemeanor theft or felony theft. I will review the type of theft charged, the value of the property alleged to be stolen, the alleged intent behind the act, as well as all possible defenses to the charges. Early and active involvement of a criminal defense attorney can make a big difference in theft charges filed against you.

If you have been arrested for theft or another offense, talk to an experienced lawyer right away to ensure you are protected. Please call me today for a free consultation at 412-429-4360, email me at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or contact me through this website.  I am available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

In Pennsylvania, theft offenses include the following charges:
  • Theft by unlawful taking or disposition
  • Theft by deception
  • Theft by extortion
  • Theft of property lost, mislaid, or delivered by mistake
  • Receiving stolen property
  • Theft of services
  • Theft by failure to make required disposition of funds received
  • Unauthorized use of an automobile
  • Retail theft
  • Library theft
  • Theft of trade secrets
  • Theft of unpublished dramas and musical compositions
  • Theft of leased property
  • Unlawful use of a computer
  • Theft from an automobile
  • Identity theft
  • Bad checks
  • Fraud