Theft Crimes Defense Attorney in Pullman
Reducing Charges & Asserting Your Innocence
There are many different types of theft crimes codified in Washington law. As an experienced defense attorney and former prosecutor, Luke Baumgarten has the special insight needed to properly investigate and analyze any type of theft charge. If you have been charged with theft, you are probably understandably embarrassed, scared, and worried about how this will look on a background check.
Even if the evidence against you is overwhelming (e.g., the act was caught on security cameras or was personally observed by loss prevention officers), it is sometimes possible to obtain a dismissal by negotiating a "Compromise of Misdemeanor" with the alleged victim.
Civil Demand
If the alleged victim is a retail store, Mr. Baumgarten will work directly with the law firm representing the store in an attempt to negotiate a compromise of misdemeanor in exchange for payment of a "civil demand." If you receive a "civil demand" from a retail store or from a law firm representing a retail store, don’t pay the demand until you have spoken with an attorney.
The goal of our Pullman criminal defense attorneys is to minimize your stress, defend your record, and protect your future. You can expect Mr. Baumgarten to provide you with straightforward advice about what to expect and what can be done to prevent or mitigate the consequences that could result from a theft conviction.
Type of Theft Offenses
There are many different types of theft in the State of Washington. The basic offenses are three different "degrees" of theft, which depend upon the type and value of the property stolen.
They can be broken down as follows:
- Theft in the Third Degree is defined in 9A.56.050 and is a gross misdemeanor.
- Theft in the Second Degree is defined in RCW 9A.56.040 and is a class C felony.
- Theft in the First Degree is defined in RCW 9A.56.030 and is a class B felony.
For more information, call Baumgarten Law Office for a free consultation.