Frequently Asked Questions

This all depends on your case. You can avoid trial through a few different methods.

1. Convincing the prosecution to drop charges, because it isn't worth it
2. Convincing the judge that the charges are invalid because they were not filed on legal grounds or there is too little evidence, in which case, the charges will be dismissed.
3. Accepting a plea bargain in return for a concession, e.g. decreased charges or penalties.

The main difference between the level of theft that you can be charged with is the value of the property or services you allegedly stole. If you are charged with stealing items or services worth less than $1,000, you will likely be charged with a first-degree misdemeanor. You can still be charged with a higher degree of theft if the property was a firearm or drugs, or if the rightful owner of the property was an elderly person, individual with a disability, or service member. Theft that is charged as a felony again depends on the amount of items or services you stole. If the loss amount ranges from $1000 - $7500 it is a felony of the fifth degree. If it is more than $7500 it is a felony of the fourth degree, and so on. Once again, the potential penalties can be enhanced if a firearm is stolen or if the alleged victim was an elderly person.