Defending Your Rights: Property Crime Lawyer in Denver, CO

Empowering Your Defense Against Theft Allegations

Your Go-To Theft & Property Crimes Law Firm

When it comes to the realm of theft and property crimes cases, there is a wide spectrum of charges, aggravating factors, and potential penalties involved. Suro Law understands these complexities and brings a tried-and-true approach to every case. Based in Denver, Colorado, we’re here to offer support and strategic defense if you are facing accusations related to theft or property offenses. Get in touch today to get started.

Common of Theft & Property Crimes Charges

A wide range of cases falls under the umbrella of theft and property crimes, and it’s important to note that every case carries a unique set of legal implications. Some of the most common theft and property charges in Colorado include:

Robbery
Burglary
Theft
Trespassing
Criminal Mischief
Forgery
Fraud
Identity Theft

If you are facing any of these charges, or are unsure of whether your specific case qualifies as a theft or property crime, Suro Law can help you move forward with confidence. Get in touch today for a FREE consultation, during which we can discuss your case and determine the best course of action.

Defining Robbery: Simple vs. Aggravated Robbery

Robbery is defined as the act of unlawfully taking property from another person through the use or threat of force or intimidation. The state of Colorado distinguishes between three different types of robbery: simple, aggravated, and aggravated robbery of controlled substances.

Simple Robbery: The least severe form of robbery, simple robbery occurs when someone knowingly takes something valuable through the use of force. In order for a conviction to occur in a robbery case, the use of force or fear-inducing tactics must be established. Note that if you were taking property (a) that rightfully belonged to you or (b) to return it to its rightful owner, this does not constitute robbery. Punishments for simple robbery charges can include up to 6 years in prison and/or up to $500,000 in fines. If the victim of the crime was an “at-risk” elder (over age 70) or was disabled, the mandatory prison sentence is at least 4 years.
Aggravated Robbery: Aggravated robbery occurs when you commit robbery while using a lethal weapon. If the accused gave the victim the impression that they were wielding a deadly weapon, even if it was not (i.e. presenting a toy gun as if it were real), the aggravated charges can still apply. Penalties for aggravated robbery charges include a mandatory prison sentence of up to 32 years and up to $750,000 worth of fines.
Aggravated Robbery of Controlled Substances: If a robbery involves both the use of a deadly weapon AND the seizure of a controlled substance from a pharmacy, pharmacist, or other legal owner, the consequences become even more severe. Penalties include up to 48 years in prison and up to $750,000 worth of fines.

Understanding Theft: Petty, Misdemeanor, and Felony Theft

Theft occurs when someone takes something that doesn’t belong to them with the intention of keeping it. Unlike robbery, theft does not involve the use of force or fear to take property from someone’s immediate possession. There are three different levels of theft in Colorado: petty, misdemeanor, and felony.

Petty Theft: Petty theft is a misdemeanor charge that applies when stolen property is valued at less than $300. Penalties include up to 10 days in jail and minor fines.
Misdemeanor Theft: Petty theft is one example of misdemeanor theft. However, if the property stolen is valued between $300 and $2000, the crime is still considered a misdemeanor, albeit with slightly more severe penalties (probation or up to 364 days in jail + fines of up to $1000).
Felony Theft: Also known as grand larceny or grand theft, felony theft occurs when someone steals property valued at more than $2000. Note that if you steal something from an elderly person (above age 70) or a disabled person, this counts as a felony regardless of the item’s value. Felony theft can result in up to 24 years in prison, fines of up to $1 million, and restitution to the victim.

If you are facing theft charges of any kind in the Denver area, a theft crimes lawyer like David Suro can help you navigate the ins and outs of your case. Contact Suro Law today to get started.

Burglary vs. Trespass: What’s the Difference?

While burglary and trespass are similar in nature and often used interchangeably, they are not the same charge. Here is the difference between the two:

Trespassing: Trespassing is a misdemeanor charge resulting from the unlawful entry onto someone else’s property without permission.
Burglary: Burglary is a felony charge resulting from the unlawful entry into a building or onto a property with the intent to commit a crime.

The key difference here is the intent to commit/the actual committing of a crime. Because burglary typically involves not only illegally entering property, but also one or more other crimes, charges of this nature tend to involve more severe penalties.

Regardless of the charge, a seasoned theft defense attorney in Denver can help you navigate the legal implications and secure the best possible outcome in your case.

Defining Criminal Mischief: Examples and Penalties

Criminal mischief refers to destructive behaviors that damage or deface someone else’s property. Some examples include vandalism, graffiti, and tampering with property.

Like most charges, the penalties for a criminal mischief conviction depend on several factors, including the extent of the damage caused and the value of the property affected. Criminal mischief charges can range from petty offenses to misdemeanors to felonies, with penalties of up to $1 million in fines and up to 24 years in prison.

Acts of criminal mischief are commonly associated with domestic violence disputes. It is important to note that even if you are a part-owner of the property that you damaged, you can still be charged with criminal mischief in the state of Colorado.

Exploring Fraud: Common Examples and Legal Ramifications

Fraud involves deceit or misrepresentation for financial gain or other benefits. Some of the most common cases of fraud in Colorado include:

Identity Theft
Insurance Fraud
Money Laundering
Forgery

Identity theft in particular is growing all the more common in the digital age, as people perform more and more transactions online. These online exchanges make consumers increasingly vulnerable to identity theft via information like credit card numbers, social security numbers, medical information, and more. As this crime becomes increasingly prevalent in the state of Colorado, the penalties are becoming even harsher.

If you are facing fraud charges in Denver or a surrounding county, we cannot overstate the importance of securing legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced Denver identity theft defense lawyer can explore all of the evidence in your case and craft the best possible strategy to move forward.

Criminal Defense Practice Areas

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Theft & Property Crime Charges in Colorado

Can I be charged with theft if I return what I took?

Yes, even if you return the stolen property, the theft charges can still apply. Ultimately, the prosecution will try to prove intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property, which can still hold even if the property was returned.

What defenses are available against theft and property crime charges?

There are countless defenses that can be used in property crime cases; however, the optimal defense strategy will always depend on the specific charges and the events surrounding your case. Some common tactics include: lack of intent, mistaken identity, duress, and lack of evidence.

Please note that consulting with an experienced Denver property crimes defense attorney is crucial to determine the most effective strategy for your case.

Will I have to pay restitution if convicted of a theft or property crime?

Restitution orders are common in theft and property crime cases. This means that the defendant may be required to compensate the victim(s) for any financial losses resulting from the offense.

Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't take anything?

Yes, contrary to popular belief, burglary does not necessarily entail theft of any kind. Instead, burglary occurs when an individual unlawfully enters property with the intent to commit a crime inside the premises. This crime could be theft, but it could also be a host of other things, such as assault.

Can I be charged with fraud even if I didn't benefit financially?

Yes, you can be charged with fraud even if financial gain was not your sole motive. As long as there is evidence of deceit or misrepresentation for personal benefit or gain (of any kind), fraud charges can apply.

Trust Suro Law: Denver Property Crimes Defense Lawyer Near You

When facing allegations of theft and property crimes, the stakes are high, and the road ahead may seem daunting. Suro Law offers steadfast support and strategic defense, guiding you through the complexities of the legal system with expertise and compassion. Don’t face these challenges alone—choose Suro Law to protect your rights and advocate for your future.