What Are The Common Misconceptions People Have About Theft Charges?

One misconception is that you must steal something to commit burglary. This is not the case. You don’t even have to break into a house to commit it; you just have to remain in a house unlawfully.

Most people don’t think about consequences. If people actually thought about consequences, they wouldn’t do whatever they’re about to do. Usually, when there’s a situation like this, no rational-thinking people exist anymore.

Often, emotions, stress, drugs, alcohol, or something else is involved. People aren’t thinking rationally.

It’s very rare to find the rational-thinking criminal. Not all people who are charged with crimes are criminals, but it’s not like TV. Not a lot of mastermind genius criminals exist out there.

What Are the Common Mistakes People Make When Arrested or Charged with a Theft?

The number one mistake people make is talking to the police. Whether you’re innocent or guilty, it does not matter.

The police are not there to help you. They’re not there to be your friends; they’re not there to give you legal advice. They’re not there to make your life easier or better. They are there to collect evidence to arrest you, prosecute you, and convict you of a crime.

Regardless of whether you think you are guilty, innocent, or in the wrong place at the wrong time, talking to the police is the biggest mistake you can make. Their job is to interrogate you and allow you to incriminate yourself.

Why Do People Talk to the Police?

People are trusting, and people are willing to believe whatever they hear. They’re stressed, they’re scared, they’ve never been in that position, and they’re just hoping they can get out of the situation.

They cannot.

Furthermore, police are allowed to lie to you. They aren’t allowed to promise you benefits or threaten you in order to get you to say things, but they are allowed to lie to you. It’s just better to say, “I need to talk to a lawyer.”

Does Someone Have an Obligation to Speak to a Police Officer?

You don’t have an obligation.

If an officer asks your name, you should give him your name. If you’re driving a car, and they ask you for your license, you need to give them your driver’s license.

They’re allowed to ask you some questions like, “Where were you? Where are you going? Is everything okay?” You need to answer those questions.

If a Person Has been Caught Red-Handed, Should He Plead Guilty and Expect Mercy from the Court?

Sometimes! Depending on the court, depending on the prosecutor, depending on your history, and depending on what your future looks like, you could do this.

There are so many reasons that you should not take your case into your own hands, of course.

However, many people think: If I’m guilty, I am just going to plead guilty. You won’t get anything. If you’ve talked to a lawyer, though, he might be able to get you in a diversion program. This way, you don’t end up with a conviction.

Thusly, it’s never a good idea to take it into your own hands when you’re charged with a crime.

What is the Impact on the Life of an Individual Charged with Theft?

If it’s a deceitful theft, meaning that you deceived someone or you committed fraud, you could have immigration consequences, even if it’s a misdemeanor.

Even when you have a misdemeanor, people can look up your record. Potential employers can look it up. This can harm you.

I don’t know many places that will hire you, knowing you have theft convictions. This is especially true if you’re working with money or other people’s property. This conviction has a long-term effect.

How Long Would a Theft Case Potentially Last?

I’ve had cases that lasted only until the first or second court date before resolution. The case could potentially go on for a year, depending on whether or not it’s a felony.

The state has 7 years to file felony charges before the statute of limitations expires. If it’s a misdemeanor, they have one year to file charges.

For more information on Common Misconceptions about Theft, a free initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you’re seeking by calling (480) 442-8343 today.

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