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If you or a loved one has been charged with theft in Memphis, you need an experienced and dedicated theft lawyer on your side. Theft charges can carry severe consequences, including hefty fines and possible jail time, depending on the value of the stolen property and other circumstances.

At The Case Firm, our Memphis theft lawyers have decades of combined experience defending clients against all types of theft charges, from shoplifting and petty theft to grand theft and burglary. Don’t risk your future – contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Tennessee Theft Crimes and Penalties

Under Tennessee law, theft is when someone knowingly obtains or exercises control over another person’s property without their consent and with the intent to deprive the owner of that property.

This legal definition encompasses a range of actions like:

  • Larceny (taking property)
  • Embezzlement (misappropriating entrusted property)
  • Shoplifting
  • Receiving/concealing stolen property
  • Fraudulent use of services (e.g., dine and dash)

No matter the scenario, theft crimes in Tennessee are classified primarily based on the value of the property or services involved in the alleged offense.

Classifying Theft Charges in Memphis

Even taking merchandise or money worth less than $1,000 can be considered a Class A misdemeanor theft in Tennessee. While not a felony, you could still face up to 11 months and 29 days in jail plus a $2,500 fine if convicted.

Felony-level theft charges start applying when the alleged theft involves:

  • Firearms under $2,500 value (Class E felony)
  • Property/services from $1,000 to $2,499 in value (Class E felony)
  • Property/services from $2,500 to $9,999 (Class D felony)
  • Property/services from $10,000 to $59,999 (Class C felony)
  • Property/services $60,000 to $249,999 (Class B felony)
  • Property/services over $250,000 (Class A felony)

With each increasing felony class, the potential prison sentence lengthens from 1-6 years on the low end up to 15-60 years for Class A felony grand theft. Prior theft convictions can also trigger enhanced penalties.

Consequences of a Theft Conviction

As you can see, theft charges in Memphis and across Tennessee should be taken extremely seriously from Day 1. A conviction, whether a misdemeanor or felony, can have devastating impacts:

  • Potential jail/prison sentence disrupting your life
  • Hefty fines and court costs creating financial burdens
  • Restitution orders to compensate theft victims
  • A permanent criminal record hindering employment, housing, etc.
  • Possible deportation for non-citizen defendants

With so much at stake, attempting to plead your case alone is ill-advised. You need professional legal representation from a theft defense lawyer who understands the system and can craft a strategic defense on your behalf.

Defending Against Memphis Theft Charges

At The Case Firm, our Memphis criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended many clients by raising doubt in any number of ways:

  • Lack of criminal intent (e.g., a misunderstanding)
  • Claim of right to the property in question
  • Law enforcement entrapment or overreach
  • Mistaken identity and lack of evidence tying you to the crime
  • Extenuating circumstances warranting leniency

Even when the evidence seems stacked against you, our in-depth case preparation frequently reveals mitigating factors that allow us to negotiate for reduced charges or an outright dismissal. First-time offenders accused of relatively low-value theft may qualify for pretrial diversion programs to avoid a criminal record.

Work With Our Experienced Memphis Theft Defense Firm

When you’re backed into a corner facing theft charges in Memphis or the surrounding areas, know that our team at The Case Firm is prepared to fight tirelessly on your behalf.

From our initial consultation through final case resolution, you’ll have direct access to attorneys with:

  • Comprehensive understanding of Tennessee’s theft laws and statutes
  • Extensive experience in Shelby County and West Tennessee courts
  • Proven records of successful negotiations and litigation
  • Diligent, client-focused case management
  • Ethical, aggressive representation

No matter how complex the allegations you’re facing, our firm will exhaust every legal avenue while prioritizing open communication and keeping you informed each step of the way.

Why Hire Our Memphis Theft Lawyers?

We’re selective about the cases we take on because we’re committed to providing the highest caliber of criminal defense service possible. Each and every client of our Memphis law firm receives:

  • Initial consultation to evaluate your case
  • Personalized legal counsel tailored to your circumstances
  • Proven strategies honed over decades in Tennessee courts
  • Stellar reputation and testimonials from past clients

Our team’s track record speaks for itself when it comes to successfully resolving theft charges in the Memphis area. From misdemeanors to felonies of any magnitude, you can count on our attorneys to protect your rights, freedom, and future.

Contact The Case Firm for Theft Defense

If you or a loved one were accused of theft anywhere in the Memphis region, the time to begin developing a defense strategy is now. The Case Firm will leave no stone unturned in pursuit of the most favorable resolution possible based on the facts.

Don’t gamble with the consequences a theft conviction can bring. Contact our Memphis office today and schedule a comprehensive, confidential case evaluation. Let our skilled theft lawyers passionately advocate for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is theft under $1000 a felony in TN?
No, theft of property or services valued at $1,000 or less in Tennessee is classified as a Class A misdemeanor, not a felony. However, it can still carry serious penalties of up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a $2,500 fine if convicted.
What is petty theft in TN?
Tennessee does not have a separate statutory offense called “petty theft.” Thefts involving less than $1,000 are simply considered misdemeanor-level thefts under the state’s consolidated theft statute. Anything valued at $1,000 or more escalates to a felony theft charge.
What is the law on shoplifting in Tennessee?
Tennessee law defines shoplifting as theft of merchandise from a retailer by methods like concealing items, price tag switching, disabling security devices, or causing a cash register to undercharge. Shoplifting crimes are punished the same as general theft charges based on the value of goods stolen. However, repeat shoplifting offenses increase the punishment level. Merchants can also pursue civil penalties against shoplifters.
What is the statute on theft in Tennessee?
The primary statute governing theft offenses in Tennessee is T.C.A. § 39-14-103 (Theft). This covers theft of property through larceny, embezzlement, fraudulent conversion, and other similar conduct. T.C.A. § 39-14-105 then classifies the offense levels and penalties based on the value of property/services stolen, starting at a misdemeanor under $1,000 up to a Class A felony over $250,000.

Serving Memphis & Shelby County.