Theft & PROPERTY Crimes DEFENSE ATTORNEY

TUCSON & SOUTHERN ARIZONA

Free & Confidential Consultation — Call/Text (520) 440-5635, Available 24/7

Last Modified: October 9, 2025

Douglas W. Taylor | Theft Crimes Defense Attorney in Tucson | Taylor Law Group, PLLC

THEFT & PROPERTY CRIMES DEFENSE ATTORNEY IN TUCSON


  • Theft & Property Crimes cases in Tucson can vary from minor offenses like petty theft to serious charges such as theft of a means of transportation. At Taylor Law Group, we understand the significant impact such allegations can have on you and your future. Serving Tucson & Southern Arizona, our experienced and top-rated Tucson Criminal Defense attorneys are dedicated to providing a robust defense for our clients, leveraging our deep knowledge of Arizona theft laws. Whether you’re facing your first theft charge or dealing with a more complicated case due to a prior criminal record, we are here to guide you through the legal process and fight for you.

  • Choosing the right criminal defense attorney is essential when facing theft charges. At Taylor Law Group, we tailor our defense strategies to the specific details of your case, ensuring that we address your unique circumstances. Our team works diligently to achieve favorable outcomes, which might include a dismissal, reductions in charges, and not-guilty verdicts. We believe everyone deserves a second chance, and our goal is to minimize the legal consequences of theft offenses on your life.

Top-Rated Expert Defense from Our Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyers: Theft Charges in Tucson

Criminal defense lawyer Douglas W. Taylor defending clients in Tucson courtroom

Facing Theft Charges in Tucson: Expert Legal Defense


  • Facing theft charges in Tucson can be an incredibly stressful experience. A conviction can have a lasting impact on your life, affecting your employment, housing, and reputation. At Taylor Law Group, our Tucson Criminal Defense lawyers specialize in defending clients against all types of theft crimes, from petty theft to money laundering to theft of a means of transportation. We are familiar with all the local court systems and know how to navigate them effectively to protect your rights.

  • Our top-rated criminal defense team conducts thorough investigations to  effectively challenge the evidence against you. We explore every angle of your case, seeking to uncover any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. With 25 years of experience handling theft crime cases in Tucson, we understand what it takes to secure the best possible outcome for you. Whether through negotiating dismissals, favorable plea deals, or presenting a strong defense at trial, we are dedicated to obtaining the most favorable resolution for you.

What to Expect After an Arrest for Theft

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  • Theft laws in Arizona are detailed and can be difficult to navigate without proper legal expertise. Theft is generally defined as the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This can range from petty theft (such as shoplifting) to theft or money laundering (involving high-value items or large sums of money). The primary difference between petty theft and theft is the value of the stolen property.

  • Under Arizona law, petty theft involves stolen property valued at $1,000 or less, while theft involves property worth more than $1,000. The penalties for theft in Arizona vary significantly based on the circumstances of the crime, the value of the stolen property, and any prior criminal record. Petty theft can result in a misdemeanor charge, with penalties including up to six months in county jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

  • On the other hand, theft is a more serious offense and can lead to more severe penalties, including longer sentences in county jail or state prison. Grand theft applies when the stolen property exceeds the value of $1,000 and is generally classified as a felony under Arizona law. If charged as a felony, a conviction could result in as much as  3.75 years in prison--and that is for a first offense.

Schedule a Consultation with a Top-Rated Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyer at Taylor Law Group

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  • If you’re facing theft charges in Tucson, the decisions you make next can significantly impact the outcome of your case and your future. At Taylor Law Group, we understand the gravity of this situation and are here to provide the top-rated criminal defense and expertise you need. Our team of experienced Tucson Criminal Defense Lawyers is committed to defending your rights and working toward the best possible outcome for your case. 
  • Contact us today for a free case consultation.

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FAQs - Theft / Property Crimes

  What crimes are included under “theft” or “property crimes” in Arizona?
Common charges include theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, trafficking in stolen property, criminal damage, and possession of burglary tools. Each has different elements and penalties.

  What’s the difference between theft, burglary, and robbery?
Theft = taking property without permission. Burglary = entering a structure/yard/vehicle to commit a theft or felony. Robbery = taking property by force or threat from a person. Same property theme, very different exposure.

  When does shoplifting or theft become a felony?
Felony exposure depends on value thresholds and aggravators (organized schemes, booster devices, prior convictions, weapons, or entry into a business after a prior ban). The facts—not just price tags—drive the level.

  Can paying restitution make the case go away?
Restitution can help, but it doesn’t automatically dismiss a case. Prosecutors decide whether to file or continue charges. Restitution is often part of negotiations, diversion, or plea outcomes.

  What defenses exist for theft or shoplifting?
Lack of intent, mistake/claim of right, consent, misidentification, unreliable loss-prevention methods, gaps in surveillance or chain-of-custody, and illegal search/seizure issues are common avenues.

  Will I go to jail if I’m charged?
It depends on the charge level, priors, and case facts. Outcomes can range from diversion or reduced charges to probation or jail/prison on higher-level felonies. Early intervention by counsel can change your options.

Theft / Property Crimes (A.R.S. § 13-1802)

Penalties

  • Value thresholds (most property types):
  • $25,000+ → Class 2 felony
  • $4,000–$24,999 → Class 3 felony
  • $3,000–$3,999 → Class 4 felony (any vehicle engine/transmission = Class 4 regardless of value)
  • $2,000–$2,999 → Class 5 felony
  • $1,000–$1,999 → Class 6 felony
  • <$1,000 → Class 1 misdemeanor (with firearm/person-from-the-person exceptions = Class 6 felony)
  • Typical exposure: Felonies per class (above); misdemeanors per class (jail/fines/probation).


Need Help Now?

Theft-related charges in Tucson or Southern Arizona can turn your life upside down. Don’t face them alone. At Taylor Law Group, PLLC, we offer free, confidential consultations and representation backed by nearly 25 years of criminal law experience — led by a former Pima County Judge.


📞 Call or text (520) 440-5635 anytime, 24/7.


We’re here to fight for your rights and protect your future.

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Ranked in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers

Over 25 Years of Combined Criminal Defense Experience 

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If you or a loved one needs assistance from our experienced criminal defense attorneys, please don’t hesitate to reach out in the way that is most convenient for you. You can call us at (520) 440-5635 or complete the  contact  form below. All fields are required. We’re here to help.

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