Felony Theft Lawyer - Birmingham, Alabama
Facing felony theft charges in Alabama is a serious matter requiring skilled legal guidance, and a criminal defense lawyer plays a crucial role in protecting your rights throughout the process.
If you have been accused of grand theft, burglary, or any form of felony theft, securing the representation of an experienced Birmingham felony theft lawyer is essential to protect your rights and future. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney for felony theft cases can make a significant difference in the outcome, as they understand the complexities of criminal law and defense strategies.
Criminal accusations, especially at the felony level, can put your freedom, finances, and reputation at stake. It is important to understand the possible consequences of a felony theft charge, such as imprisonment, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. Our law firm is a trusted provider of legal defense for felony theft in Birmingham. Our role is to provide aggressive defense, personalized legal counsel, and guidance through every step of your case.
Understanding Felony Theft Charges in Alabama
What Constitutes Felony Theft?
Felony theft in Alabama encompasses a broad range of offenses involving the unauthorized taking of property or services of significant value without the owner’s consent. The severity of the charge—first, second, or third degree—depends mainly on the value of what was stolen. However, certain types of theft (involving firearms or debit cards) are treated more severely regardless of value. Common charges include:
- Grand theft (felony theft)
- Burglary or breaking and entering with intent to steal
- Theft involving controlled substances, firearms, or vehicles
- Theft by deception
- Receiving or possessing stolen property
Alabama Felony Theft Offense Classification
| Degree | Value or Circumstance | Charge Class | Sentence Range |
| First-Degree Theft | Over $2,500 | Class B Felony | 2-20 years in prison |
| Property taken from a person | Class B Felony | (as above) | |
| Second-Degree Theft | $1,501–$2,500 | Class C Felony | 1-10 years in prison |
| Involving firearms, credit/debit cards, and livestock | Class C Felony | (as above) | |
| Third-Degree Theft | $501–$1,500 | Class D Felony | Up to 5 years in prison |
| Fourth-Degree Theft | Under $500 | Class A Misdemeanor | Up to 1 year jail |
Note: The above guidelines are general; factors such as prior convictions or aggravating circumstances may result in enhanced penalties. Previous convictions can lead to longer sentences or more severe consequences.
The Impact of a Felony Theft Conviction
A felony theft conviction can change your life dramatically. Potential consequences include:
- Criminal penalties: A felony conviction can result in severe criminal penalties, including a possible prison sentence of up to 20 years, substantial fines, and restitution requirements.
- Lengthy prison time: Sentences range up to 20 years for felony convictions.
- High fines: Felony fines can reach up to $15,000 or more, depending on the degree and circumstances.
- Criminal record: Any criminal conviction, including theft convictions, creates a permanent record, complicating employment, housing, and financial opportunities.
- Impact on professional licenses: A criminal conviction can jeopardize your ability to obtain or maintain professional licenses, affecting your future career prospects.
- Loss of rights: Conviction may result in losing the right to vote or possess firearms.
- Restitution: Courts often order repayment to the victim and additional court costs.
- Harsher penalties: Past convictions and prior criminal history can lead to enhanced penalties and longer sentences for new offenses.
- Reputational harm: Allegations can damage professional relationships, family life, and social standing.
In some cases, community service may be ordered as a consequence or offered as an alternative to incarceration. Because of the seriousness of these consequences, theft charges require immediate attention and experienced legal defense.
How a Felony Theft Lawyer in Birmingham Can Help
If you or someone you love is under investigation or has been charged with theft in the Birmingham area, it is crucial not to face the legal process alone. Our firm provides:
- Thorough Case Review: We meticulously investigate the allegations, gather exculpatory evidence, and examine every aspect of the state’s case against you.
- Strategic Defense Development: We identify weaknesses, inconsistencies, or constitutional violations in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiation Skills: Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who can seek to reduce charges or penalties through plea agreements when appropriate.
- Courtroom Advocacy: We fiercely defend your rights during hearings, trials, or sentencing, leveraging our knowledge of Alabama criminal law.
- Personalized Legal Guidance: Every case is unique; we tailor defense strategies to your circumstances, ensuring clear and honest communication.
Our team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with decades of experience in felony criminal defense. We have successfully defended clients against theft, burglary, robbery, and related charges across Jefferson County and greater Birmingham.
Common Defenses to Felony Theft Charges
While every case is different, potential defenses may include:
- Lack of intent to commit theft
- Mistaken identity or false accusation
- Insufficient or improperly obtained evidence
- Ownership or rightful claim to the property
- Constitutional violations, such as unlawful search or seizure
- Duress or coercion
Selecting the best defense requires a skilled assessment of your case’s specifics.
Common Defenses to Felony Theft Charges
Selecting a felony theft lawyer is a critical decision that can alter the course of your case. Our firm stands out for:
- Proven track record in felony theft defense in Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
- Dedication to client advocacy, ensuring every client is heard, respected, and fully informed from start to finish.
- Recognition for legal excellence by national and regional legal organizations.
- Availability: We understand legal emergencies don’t happen on a schedule. Consultations are available 24/7 to ensure you get prompt guidance when you need it most.
What to Do Next If You Are Charged With Felony Theft?
If you are facing a criminal charge, it is essential to understand the criminal justice system and its impact on your rights and future. Here are important steps to take:
- Do not speak to law enforcement or prosecutors without your attorney present.
- Gather and preserve any evidence (texts, emails, receipts) that could be helpful to your case, as gathering evidence is essential to support your defense against a criminal charge.
- List any potential witnesses who may support your version of events.
- Avoid discussing your case or charges on social media.
- Contact a qualified felony theft lawyer immediately for a confidential consultation, as experienced representation is vital for navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system and protecting your rights.
Felony Theft in Birmingham
Felony theft involves the unlawful taking of property or services with a value above a certain threshold (generally more than $500), or certain types of property (such as firearms or vehicles), or theft directly from a person. In Alabama, theft offenses encompass a range of property theft crimes, with classification and penalties varying depending on the value of the stolen property and the specific circumstances. Some thefts are charged as misdemeanor, while others are considered felonies based on the value and nature of the theft crime.
Attempting to steal property valued above the felony threshold or possessing stolen property can result in felony charges, even if the theft was not completed. If convicted, you may face criminal penalties, including a possible prison sentence of up to 20 years, substantial fines, and restitution requirements.
Exercise your right to remain silent and request legal counsel immediately. Avoid giving statements to law enforcement. If you are facing a criminal charge, it is crucial to seek representation as soon as possible. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney or felony theft defense lawyer to protect your interests and ensure your rights are defended throughout the process.
A skilled attorney will review your case, develop possible defenses, fight for a reduction or dismissal of charges, and ensure your rights are protected throughout the criminal process. They may also negotiate with prosecutors for a plea deal or seek reduced charges as part of your defense strategy. Presenting an effective defense is crucial to improving your chances of a favorable outcome.
Yes, a felony conviction for theft in Alabama results in a permanent criminal record, which can significantly hinder the ability to obtain employment, housing, or professional licenses. Convictions for theft also carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment, and can have lasting collateral consequences. While legal remedies may be available to seek record relief in some circumstances, those are limited and fact-dependent.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation Today
If you or someone you know is facing felony theft charges in Birmingham, securing skilled representation can make the difference between conviction and acquittal, or prison and freedom.
Our legal team is ready to review your case, explain your options, and develop a defense strategy tailored to your circumstances. Contact us now to arrange a confidential case evaluation and protect your future.