Experienced Defense for Property Crimes
The criminal penalties for theft are one reason to fight the charges. The criminal record is another. Even if you serve no jail, a misdemeanor offense can affect employment, college entrance, military service or your ability to obtain a loan. A felony conviction will really hold you back.
I can help avoid a conviction for theft or burglary or minimize the impact on your freedom and your future. I am Christopher Finch, and I have practiced in criminal defense for 20 years in Prince William County and Northern Virginia. Call me at 703-383-1150 for a free consultation. Yo hablo español.
Larceny and Burglary
Any theft charge is serious, and every repeat offense adds to the penalties. I have defended clients on all property crimes:
- Shoplifting and misdemeanor theft
- Grand larceny
- Auto theft
- Breaking and entering
- Burglary
- Robbery
Shoplifting is a Class I misdemeanor. For a first offense, I can often help people enter a diversion program so that the conviction does not go on their record, in exchange for restitution and community service. However, a third offense of petty larceny (shoplifting) is a Class 6 felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. I work every angle to get charges dismissed or reduced to a misdemeanor offense. Burglary is a serious felony that carries a potential prison sentence. If you broke into an occupied dwelling (first degree burglary) or committed a burglary while armed (aggravated burglary), you could face up to 40 years in prison.
On a first offense of burglary, I can, in some cases, arrange a plea to unlawful entry.
Prepared to Go to Trial if Necessary
Your defense depends on the potential penalties and prosecution's facts. Do they have fingerprints, DNA or a positive ID pointing to you? If police found stolen property, can they connect you to a burglary? Prosecutors will plead out a weak case, but rarely dismiss charges completely. If a plea offer would still result in your incarceration, I am an experienced trial lawyer who can help you evaluate the potential risks and benefits of going forward.
Contact my Fairfax office before making any statements to police. I offer a free half hour consultation.
Yo Hablo Español — I Speak Spanish
Every legal matter is unique. No attorney can promise a particular result.
