What is the law if I am accused of stealing money? 59 Answers as of January 13, 2012

For this answer 13A-8-1appliesonly to 13A-8-1and 13A-8-5. 13A-8-1. Definitions generally The following definitions are applicable in this article unless the context otherwise requires: (1) DECEPTION occurs when a person knowingly: a. Creates or confirms another's impression which is false and which the defendant does not believe to be true; or b. Fails to correct a false impression which the defendant previously has created or confirmed; or c. Fails to correct a false impression when the defendant is under a duty to do so; or d. Prevents another from acquiring information pertinent to the disposition of the property involved; or e. Sells or otherwise transfers or encumbers property, failing to disclose a lien, adverse claim, or other legal impediment to the enjoyment of the property when the defendant is under a duty to do so, whether that impediment is or is not valid, or is not a matter of official record; or f. Promises performance which the defendant does not intend to perform or knows will not be performed. Failure to perform, standing alone, however, is not proof that the defendant did not intend to perform. The term "deception" does not, however, include falsity as to matters having no pecuniary significance, or puffing by statements unlikely to deceive ordinary persons. "Puffing" means an exaggerated commendation of wares or services. (2) To "DEPRIVE ..." means: a. To withhold property or cause it to be withheld from a person permanently or for such period or under such circumstances that all or a portion of its use or benefit would be lost to him or her; or b. To dispose of the property so as to make it unlikely that the owner would recover it; or c. To retain the property with intent to restore it to the owner only if the owner purchases or leases it back, or pays a reward or other compensation for its return; or d. To sell, give, pledge, or otherwise transfer any interest in the property; or e. To subject the property to the claim of a person other than the owner. (3) FINANCIAL INSTITUTION. A bank, insurance company, credit union, safety deposit company, savings and loan association, investment trust, or other organization held out to the public as a place of deposit of funds or medium of savings or collective investment. (4) FIREARM. A weapon from which a shot is discharged by gunpowder. (5) GOVERNMENT. The United States, any state or any county, municipality, or other political unit within territory belonging to the United States, or any department, agency, or subdivision of any of the foregoing, or any corporation or other association carrying out the functions of government, or any corporation or agency formed pursuant to interstate compact or international treaty. As used in this definition "state" includes any state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. (6) OBTAINS. Such term means: a. In relation to property, to bring about a transfer or purported transfer of a legally recognized interest in the property, whether to the obtainer or another; or b. In relation to labor or service, to secure performance thereof. (7) OBTAINS OR EXERTS CONTROL or OBTAINS OR EXERTS UNAUTHORIZED CONTROL over property includes but is not necessarily limited to the taking, carrying away, or the sale, conveyance, or transfer of title to, or interest in, or possession of, property, and includes but is not necessarily limited to conduct heretofore defined or known as common law larceny by trespassory taking, common law larceny by trick, larceny by conversion, embezzlement, extortion, or obtaining property by false pretenses. (8) OWNER. A person, other than the defendant, who has possession of or any other interest in the property involved, even though that interest or possession is unlawful, and without whose consent the defendant has no authority to exert control over the property. A secured party, as defined in Section 7-9A-102(a)(72), is not an owner in relation to a defendant who is a debtor, as defined in Section 7-9A-102(a)(28), in respect of property in which the secured party has a security interest, as defined in Section 7-1-201(37). (9) PROPELLED VEHICLE. Any propelled device in, upon, or by which any person or property is transported on land, water, or in the air, and such term includes motor vehicles, motorcycles, motorboats, aircraft, and any vessel propelled by machinery, whether or not that machinery is the principal source of propulsion. (10) PROPERTY. Any money, tangible or intangible personal property, property (whether real or personal) the location of which can be changed (including things growing on, affixed to, or found in land and documents, although the rights represented hereby have no physical location), contract right, chose-in-action, interest in a claim to wealth, credit, or any other article or thing of value of any kind. Commodities of a public utility nature, such as gas, electricity, steam, and water, constitute property, but the supplying of such a commodity to premises from an outside source by means of wires, pipes, conduits, or other equipment shall be deemed a rendition of a service rather than a sale or delivery of property. (11) RECEIVING. Such term includes, but is not limited to, acquiring possession, control, or title and taking a security interest in the property. (12) STOLEN. Obtained by theft, theft by appropriating lost property, robbery, or extortion. (13) THREAT. A menace, however communicated, to: a. Cause physical harm to the person threatened or to any other person; or b. Cause damage to property; or c. Subject the person threatened or any other person to physical confinement or restraint; or d. Engage in other conduct constituting a crime; or e. Accuse any person of a crime or cause criminal charges to be instituted against any person; or f. Expose a secret or publicize an asserted fact, whether true or false, tending to subject any person to hatred, contempt, or ridicule; or g. Reveal any information sought to be concealed by the person threatened; or h. Testify or provide information or withhold testimony or information with respect to another's legal claim or defense; or i. Take action as an official against anyone or anything, or withhold official action, or cause such action or withholding; or j. Bring about or continue a strike, boycott, or other similar collective action to obtain property which is not demanded or received for the benefit of the group which the actor purports to represent; or k. Do any other act which would not in itself substantially benefit the actor but which is calculated to harm substantially another person with respect to his or her health, safety, business, calling, career, financial condition, reputation, or personal relationships. (14) VALUE. The market value of the property at the time and place of the criminal act. Whether or not they have been issued or delivered, certain written instruments, not including those having a readily ascertainable market value such as some public and corporate bonds and securities shall be evaluated as follows: a. The value of an instrument constituting an evidence of debt, such as a check, draft, or promissory note, shall be deemed the amount due or collectible thereon or thereby, that figure ordinarily being the face amount of the indebtedness less any portion thereof which has been satisfied. b. The value of any other instrument that creates, releases, discharges, or otherwise affects any valuable legal right, privilege, or obligation shall be deemed the greatest amount of economic loss which the owner of the instrument might reasonably suffer by virtue of the loss of the instrument. When the value of property cannot be ascertained pursuant to the standards set fort.

In Minnesota theft like this is characterized as a misdemeanor due to the dollar amount stolen. However, without more information as to the circumstances surrounding the theft it is hard to tell if the State made it more serious due to the nature of the alleged theft. You should speak to an attorney and I strongly urge you not to represent yourself. A misdemeanor in Minnesota carries a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and a $1.000.00 fine.

If you are being accused of stealing money in Arizona, you are likely facing charges of theft under A.R.S. section 13-1802. Theft can occur a number of different ways, but the most basic way is by "controlling the property of another with the intent to deprive the other person of such property." Theft with a value under $1,000 is a class 1 misdemeanor. A class 1 misdemeanor has a maximum penalty of 6 months in jail and a $2,500 fine plus an 84% surcharge.

Stealing $80 dollars is a Misdemeanor Petty Theft Crime with a maximum sentence of 6 months in jail and $1,000 fine. If charged by the police, then the District Attorney will file a Criminal Misdemeanor Complaint. In many cases of this kind, I have been able to have the case dismissed with a human behavior class and DNA Sample.

If you are convicted the penalty is up to 1 year in jail and $5,000 fine while this may be less in some jurisdictions. What you actually receive depends on the facts of the case any other factors like your age and any other prior criminal history.

You may be facing a charge of theft of property 3d (Class A Misdemeanor).

That's avery vague question. If you mean the possibe punishment, it's up to 12 months in jail and/or up ot $1000 fine.

That is a petty offense but taking from your enloyer multivitamin be considered an aggravating circumstance that may affect your plea offer. Maybe a Disorderly Conduct.

You're looking at misdemeanor theft by taking or theft by conversion. The maximum penalty for a misdemeanor is 12 months in jail, a $1000 fine, or both.

This is embezzlement and could be charged as a felony.

Theft is exerting unauthorized control over another person's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of the use or benefit of the property.

You have probably already lost your job. Next, if the company files with the police, you will be looking at a Class B misdemeanor. That carries a maximum sentence of one year in the county jail and a $2500 file. Usually it is less time and fine than that.

Criminal law is primarily state law unless you are arrested by a federal law enforcement agency. So, I would consult with a criminal defense lawyer in your city or state. This sounds like petty theft or theft which is a misdemeanor and could carry a sentence of up to 1 year or a find of $2,500 if you were in Illinois. Having said that, if this is your first offense, there is a good chance that your lawyer can work out a plea bargain with the prosecutors to prevent you from getting any jail time.

You can be charged with larceny under $100.00. The county prosecutor may or not file depending on the facts of proof. You should seek a criminal attorney before you do anything else. Say nothing to anyone other than your attorney.

If you are proven to have stolen $80 you are guilty of Petty Larceny and subject to a maximum of 1 year in jail.

This only becomes a criminal law question if you are arrested. If you are, the police then forward their report and recommendation on to the DA's office. That office will then decide whether or not to issue the case. If they do, then you can get the Public Defender if you cannot afford an attorney. If you are simply fired, however, your only remedy is to consult an employment attorney or the labor board.

You can be charged with Theft by Unauthorized Taking, Class A Misdemeanor punishable up to 12 months in jail and or a $2,000 fine or a Class B Misdemeanor punishable up to $1,200 fine. I would also need to know more information about your prior record and the facts and circumstances to determine how the case would proceed.

If you are accused of stealing under $1,000 it is Petty Larceny. If you are accused of a crime you should not talk to your employer or the police no matter what they promise or threaten. You should retain an attorney and tell them the truth about the facts and circumstances. The attorney will speak with the police and your employer and try to convince them that you are innocent or that the evidence is not sufficient to have you arrested. You will likely be fired even if they only suspect that you stole from them. Companies lose billions from dishonest employees and shoplifters and the cost is passed on to the consumers and taxpayers who have to spend more for each item because of thieves. If you are a thief you should consider the damage you are doing to your reputation, family name, and career opportunities, and all for a few dollars? That shows immaturity, immorality, and very bad decision making. Young people steal because they do not realize the consequences of their actions and they also feel that they will not get caught. They do not realize that stores have cameras, security, and know what cashier was working at the time of the theft. You will now have to pay thousands to a lawyer to prove you are innocent or to get a dismissal even if you are guilty bases on your age and lack of a prior criminal record. If you are not able to afford an attorney Legal Aid will handle the case. In the future, study hard, work hard, follow the law, and develop a good reputation or you will not get into any college or be able to get a descent job. If you are innocent it is unlikely that they have enough evidence to arrest or convict you. My assumption is that you took the money and they are petty sure that you did it but are looking for a confession. If you were foolish enough to steal the money at least be smart enough to not admit it or deny it. Remember, Fish Only Get Caught When They Open Their Mouth.

If they charge you with theft, then you need to hire an attorney. But they may just claim that to terminate you.

Theft is a criminal offense. Based upon the amount, you will probably be charged a gross misdemeanor. It still carries with it the potential for jail time. Whether or not you serve time is dependent upon the level of your criminal history (priors) and the nature of the crime. However, a criminal conviction has other consequences: you will in all likelihood loose your job, and future employment may be difficult, especially for those jobs where trust is a prerequisite. My advice: hire an attorney.

You would be charged with petty theft for taking $80.00 from your work. to proove you giulty it would have to be proven that you had the intent to take the money and that you did take the money.

If you are charged with theft based on this accusation, the charge would be misdemeanor theft.

You can be facing fines of up to $1,000.00 and up to six months in jail if you are found guilty.

That is misdemeanor theft charge.

In Illinois it's misdemeanor theft.

You can be charged with theft, embezzlement, fraud and a number of other criminal charges. I would need more facts to tell you what charges you are facing. You will find out what you are being prosecuted for on the day of your arraignment. Pleading guilty to this type of offense may lead to denial of future employment applications so it is very important that you defend against this type of case.

The law is if you are charged with a crime, the state must prove that beyond a reasonable doubt. If you are the defendant I'm a civil suit, the plaintiff had to prove it by the preponderance . There are too many laws and cases regarding related topics to discuss here . You should talk to am attorney. Not cops or people who want to prosecute you.

Shut up. Don't admit anything. Don't talk to the police whatever you do. Get lawyered up quick. You are going to get fired no matter what. Why compound your problem by also getting a criminal record. Then sit down with a pencil and paper and write, 1000 times,"oh my god what an idiot I am". Show it to everyone you know. Then never steal again. If you do don't look tome for advice.

You could be charged with theft or embezzlement. Talk to an attorney immediately.

You may be charged with petit larceny. You may be arrested and charged and appear in front of a judge to be arraigned. Talk to a lawyer local to you immediately.

The Commonwealth has to prove that you took the money with the intent of keeping it or at least not returning it to its rightful owner.

This level of theft is classified as a misdemeanor and would subject you to a maximum of 12 months in jail and up to a $1,000 fine. While you would most likely face probation instead of jail, the real issue is what a conviction on your record will do to you in the future when you are looking for jobs. You really should get an attorney right away to assist you in fighting the charge and working to protect your interests.

Anything under $1,000 (with some exceptions for certain types of property) is petit larceny, a Class A misdemeanor. The maximum penalty is $1,000 fine and/or 1 year in jail.

In order to sustain a conviction against a defendant, based on the crime of theft, the State must prove that the defendant knowingly or intentionally without legal authorization exerted authority or possession over the property of another (here, the "another" is the employer). You should probably speak in person with an attorney.

Your accuser must provide the local prosecutor with credible evidence regarding this charge sufficient to convict you of the charge of theft beyond reasonable doubt.

Embezzlement depends on the amount of money stolen. It can be a misdemeanor for a small amount or a felony theft. Your would get informal probation for the former and formal probation for the latter with restitution being required.

This would be considered a theft. Theft is a serious offense that carries consequences of severe jail time and fines. But beyond that, having a Theft on your record can affect you for the rest of your life. Criminal records are viewable by the public. Therefore, any potential employer, landlord, or loan officer can see it and typically it will cause you to be rejected. When you are charged with or are caught in a situation where someone is accusing you of Theft, you should call a criminal defense attorney right away. At Ascheman & Smith , we offer free initial consultations and will be there each step of the way to be sure your rights are protected. The term Theft covers a large category of crimes, including embezzlement, check forgery, shoplifting, larceny, robbery, burglary and more. Examples of these offenses range from taking $10 from a friend to robbing someone at gun point to insider trading at a corporation. Theft crimes vary in severity and may be classified as misdemeanors , gross misdemeanors or felonies . If the State is accusing you Theft, they are saying that you intentionally took property or services from another with the intent to permanently deprive that person of ownership without his or her consent. If the State is accusing you of taking $80 it would likely be considered a Misdemeanor. A misdemeanor is any charge punishable by up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine. (i.e. Careless Driving, Simple Assault, Prostitution, Theft, DUI, etc.) Unlike petty misdemeanors a misdemeanor is a crime and it is important to consult an attorney to discuss your case.

6-3-402(b), Larceny by Bailee. if less than $1,000 is taken, the possible penalty is zero to six months in jail or a $750 fine or both. A misdemeanor.

Sounds like you could or have been charged with theft. Normally on a first offense we are able to keep it off your record.

It is a simple misdemeanor in the state of Iowa. Maximum sentence is 30 days in jail. Usually just a fine. I would recommend that you speak with an experienced attorney.

In order for charges to actually be filed there needs be some offer of proof by the alleged victim other than their word. Prior to charges being filed as part of an investigation you might be asked to go to the police department for an interview. I highly recommend that if that happens you have an attorney go with you. Contrary to popular belief, having an attorney present does not make one look guilty, it shows the accuser you are prepared to defend against the charge and also alerts the prosecutor that you are as well. It is very important that there be a buffer between you and the prosecution. If you are charged, the burden of proof is on the prosecution and they must prove each and every element of the crime charged beyond a reasonable doubt. If you are innocent retain counsel and stand your ground, often if the evidence is weak and the prosecution knows the alleged defendant is prepared to fight the charge the prosecution will decline to prosecute.

You would be charged with a misdemeanor subjecting you to up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1000 fine, but more likely looking at probation and a fine.

First, anything you say can become evidence in the case. As a result before speaking with authorities or your employer, you should speak with a lawyer. Second, a theft offense can be very serious. A conviction would leave an indelible mark on your record and it can impact future employment and other opportunities. As a result, an aggressive defense is necessary. As a misdemeanor offense, a theft under $500 is punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a 41000 fine. Often. if you have a clean record and/or viable defenses, you may be able to avoid a conviction with a Stay of Prosecution which, upon completion of certain conditions, may result in a dismissal of the charge.

Penal code section 503 deals with embezzlement. The amount you are discussing would likely be filed as a misdemeanor.

That is misdemeanor theft, assuming you do not have prior theft charges. You should hire a lawyer to represent you immediately.

Embezzlement. Do not speak to your work or the police.

Class 1 misdemeanor petit larceny, maximum 12 months jail and up to $2500 fine. If no prior criminal history with a good lawyer you might get probation and continuance for dismissal with conditions.

Depending on the method alleged to have been used to take the money (i.e., are they claiming forged signature. Etc.) it sounds like a petit larceny, a class A misdemeanor punishable up to one year jail and $1000 fine. Look up NY Penal Law Secttion 155.25 for more information. Experienced criminal lawyers can usually resolve these cases without a jail sentence or a criminal record if it's your first offense.