Aggressive Burglary And Theft Defense Lawyer In Pittsburgh
Theft crimes in Pennsylvania cover a wide range of offenses, from shoplifting and embezzlement to burglary and robbery. These charges may vary in severity, but all carry the risk of serious legal consequences. A conviction can lead to fines, jail time and a lasting mark on your criminal record. It can also affect your future job prospects, housing options and professional licensing. That’s why it’s so crucial to talk to a criminal defense attorney ASAP when you encounter such charges.
At Hadeed Law, attorney Samir Hadeed has defended many people across Pittsburgh in theft crimes of all types. He’s a skilled, thorough defense attorney with experience fighting in courtrooms, and he offers care and compassion to his clients. He understands that the charges you’re facing are serious, and he will defend you the way you deserve.
Understanding Theft Charges Under Pennsylvania Law
Theft offenses in Pennsylvania are categorized based on the value of the property involved, the circumstances of the offense, and whether force or deception was used. Common penalties for theft include:
- Fines, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars
- Imprisonment, from a few months in county jail to years in state prison
- Restitution, requiring repayment to the victim
- Community service and probation, often included in plea deals
Charges become more severe when the theft involves a weapon, significant monetary value or a breach of trust.
What Is The Difference Between Burglary And Robbery In Pennsylvania?
While most people would consider burglary and robbery to be synonyms, the law draws a clear line between them. Both include taking the property of another, but a robbery includes direct confrontation during the theft.
What Counts As Burglary
Burglary charges are what most people think of when they think of a “theft crime.” These involve such types of crime as:
- Breaking and entering
- Trespassing
Burglary is anything that involves gaining illegal access to a premises or building. However, the key here is that the entry into the property is accompanied by the intent to commit a crime – not necessarily theft, but assault and other types of crime.
What Counts As Robbery?
Robbery requires physical violence or threats to deprive someone of property during the commission of the crime. Robbery charges include such actions as:
- Muggings
- Hold-ups
- Carjackings
If the allegations of robbery include a firearm, then the charges are aggravated and are much more serious.
Other Common Theft Charges In Pennsylvania
Beyond burglary and robbery, other theft-related crimes include:
- Shoplifting (Retail theft): Taking merchandise without paying, altering price tags or concealing items
- Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds entrusted to someone in a position of trust
- Grand theft: Stealing property or money above a certain value, often charged as a felony
- Identity theft: Using someone’s personal information without consent for financial gain
Each of these charges requires a tailored defense strategy based on the facts of the case and applicable state laws.
Get Your Consultation Today
There are a lot of worries when it comes to robbery and burglary charges, and you have every right to find a skilled, aggressive attorney. Contact Hadeed Law today by calling our Pittsburgh office at 412-643-0768 or sending an email to get started.