Key takeaways
- Property-crime charges range from retail theft and theft by unlawful taking to robbery and burglary.
- Receiving stolen property is common and often disputed on knowledge and possession.
- Value thresholds, prior records, and whether force or entry is alleged can change grading and exposure.
- Surveillance video, store loss-prevention testimony, and identification issues frequently drive these cases.
- Early counsel can help address restitution discussions, diversion possibilities, and trial readiness.
Theft, retail theft, and receiving stolen property
Clients searching for a Philadelphia theft lawyer may be charged with retail theft, theft by unlawful taking, theft from a motor vehicle, unauthorized use of an automobile, identity theft, or receiving stolen property.
Receiving stolen property cases often turn on whether the Commonwealth can prove the person knew or believed the property was stolen. Retail theft cases may involve store video, recovery of merchandise, and statements made to loss-prevention staff.
Robbery, burglary, and more serious property crimes
Robbery and burglary allegations are more serious and can carry substantial felony exposure. Robbery typically involves theft with force or threat of force. Burglary generally involves entering a building or occupied structure with intent to commit a crime.
These cases may also include conspiracy, criminal trespass, criminal mischief, or firearms counts. Defense strategy must account for every attached charge.
Building a defense
Property-crime defense may involve challenging identification, intent, value calculations, consent, or the legality of a stop and search. In appropriate cases, counsel also evaluates negotiation paths that limit collateral consequences for employment and immigration where those issues arise.
If you are facing theft, robbery, or burglary charges in Philadelphia, contact The Altschuler Firm for a consultation.
Discuss your matter
Confidential consultation with Attorney Jonathan R. Altschuler. Call 267-888-8529 or request a consultation online.
Request a ConsultationThis page provides general information about Pennsylvania criminal practice and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Contact a licensed attorney about your situation.