Theft Defense Attorney

Serving Wyoming & South Dakota

Theft charges can carry serious legal consequences in Wyoming and South Dakota, ranging from fines and restitution to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the circumstances. Whether the case involves shoplifting, burglary, embezzlement, or grand theft, the penalties often depend on the value of the property involved and the specific details of the offense. Navigating these charges can feel overwhelming, especially when your reputation, freedom, and future are at stake.

At Just Criminal Law, we are dedicated to standing by those accused of theft-related crimes. Understanding the laws in Wyoming and South Dakota is critical to building a strong defense. Theft cases can be complex, often involving disputes about intent, ownership, or even wrongful accusations. A strong defense strategy can challenge the prosecution’s claims, seek reduced charges, or, in some cases, work to have the charges dismissed entirely.

If you’ve been accused of a theft-related offense, you need a legal team that will take the time to understand your case and fight for your rights. Call (307) 300-2240 to schedule a free case consultation with a Gillette theft defense attorney today.

Larceny, Burglary, Robbery & Auto Theft

Larceny encompasses most theft offenses, ranging from petty theft to grand theft auto. If you are charged with larceny, it could change your life. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor larceny charge for shoplifting or felony charges for theft and armed robbery, you need a team that understands your needs and takes the time to hear your circumstances. 

Attorney Christina L. Williams and her team work with clients facing all types of theft offenses, including:

• Shoplifting
• Theft
• Identity Theft
• Robbery
• Burglary
• Auto Theft

White Collar Business Crimes

Other theft offenses, particularly forgery and embezzlement, usually happen inside a business. These cases are often more complicated and sometimes involve years of paperwork and money tracing. 

If you have been charged with a business-related theft crime, you need a criminal defense team that is willing to do the investigation required to find your strongest defense.

In-Depth Theft Defense

Many theft crimes involve much physical evidence: bank records, video recordings, and computer logs. These may all be used in your case. To develop your strongest defense, you need a criminal defense team that is willing to go deep to investigate the charges and the data behind them. Based on the investigation, we can help you understand the strengths of your case so you can make an informed decision about whether to take a plea agreement or bring the case to a jury trial.

All that work pays off in the courtroom. With over 15 years of trial experience, Christina Williams has the skill and experience you need to present your best defense to the jury. In a complicated white-collar case, she and her team can help the jury understand the evidence and show them the holes in the prosecution’s case against you.

Consequences of Theft Crimes in Wyoming & South Dakota

The penalties and consequences of theft crimes are as varied as the charges themselves. They can differ significantly based on the state where the crime occurs. In Wyoming and South Dakota, the consequences can range from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the nature and value of the theft. 

In Wyoming, theft is categorized based on the value of the stolen property: 

• Petit Theft (Under $1,000): Considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $750. 
• Grand Theft ($1,000 or more): A felony offense that can result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. 

South Dakota has slightly different thresholds and penalties: 

• Petit Theft (Under $2,500): Classified into degrees based on the value. For example, theft under $1,000 is a misdemeanor with up to 1 year of jail time and fines, while theft between $1,000-$2,500 can result in harsher penalties. 
• Grand Theft ($2,500 or more): A felony offense with potential prison sentences ranging from 2 to 15 years, depending on the amount stolen, along with hefty fines. 

Crimes like embezzlement or fraud can have additional consequences. 

In Wyoming, white-collar crimes may lead to harsh financial penalties, restitution orders, and substantial jail time. South Dakota imposes similar penalties but often focuses on restitution to repay stolen funds. 

In both states, theft-related offenses can have far-reaching consequences beyond legal penalties. Crimes like embezzlement or fraud can severely damage your professional reputation, making it difficult to secure employment in the future. Additionally, even if you are never convicted, being charged with a white-collar crime can harm your standing in your community and personal relationships. 

We understand how overwhelming these charges can feel. That’s why we take the time to explain the consequences of each theft-related crime in detail, so you know what to expect. As a former prosecutor, our founder, Christina L. Williams, will provide you with a realistic analysis of your case. With her extensive experience, you’ll gain a clear understanding of the possible and likely outcomes, allowing you to make informed decisions as you navigate this challenging time.

Read More: FAQs about the consequences of a criminal conviction.

Get Help from Just Criminal Law

No matter what kind of theft crime charges you are facing, the first step to moving past them is a free consultation with an experienced criminal defense team. We will take the time to understand your case and your priorities. We make time every week to meet with new clients facing charges in Wyoming and South Dakota, so you won’t have to wait. 

To learn more about how we can help you, call Just Criminal Law or contact us online to schedule your case review and strategy session with a Gillette theft crimes defense attorney. Spanish language services are available upon request.