Des Moines Theft Lawyer

Theft Attorney In Des Moines, IA

Don’t delay speaking with a skilled Des Moines theft lawyer if you or a loved one has been arrested for theft. It’s never easy trying to navigate the criminal court system, but you don’t have to do it alone. Allow an experienced Des Moines criminal defense lawyer to guide you throughout the process.

Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams PLLC

Amanda T. Adams has successfully assisted countless clients who were facing misdemeanor and felony charges. As a skilled criminal defense lawyer with more than 15 years of experience, Ms. Adams is a reliable, compassionate, and determined legal professional.

Understanding Theft Crimes in Des Moines, IA

The state of Iowa defines the crime of theft as taking possession or control of a person’s property without consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the person of said property. In 2023, there were 706 reported instances of stolen property in the state. In 2024, there was a 23.65 percent decrease, with 539 instances of stolen property. Stolen property can include cash, jewelry, or other personal items.

Iowa theft laws categorize the stealing of property into five separate classifications. These are the different levels of theft crimes our criminal defense law firm handles:

• Theft in the fifth degree. Simple misdemeanor where the property stolen does not exceed $300 in value.
• Theft in the fourth degree. Serious misdemeanor where the value of stolen property is more than $300 but not more than $750.
• Theft in the third degree. This aggravated misdemeanor can be charged when the stolen property was between $750 and $1,500 in value or if the defendant has been previously convicted of theft twice before, regardless of the value of the stolen goods.
• Theft in the second degree. A Class D felony wherein there was the theft of a motor vehicle or the value of stolen property was between $1,500 and $10,000.
• Theft in the first degree. Class C felony that can be charged if property amounting to more than $10,000 was stolen or if there was theft from a building destroyed due to rioting and physical or natural disasters.

Theft crimes in Des Moines are primarily handled by the Polk County Courthouse, particularly at the county’s Criminal Courts Building. This venue is located at 110 6th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309. The location where your case may be processed can vary depending on the details of the supposed theft itself, so be sure to consult with your defense lawyer to know which courthouse is handling your case.

Theft-Related Charges and Potential Penalties

Theft cases can vary greatly depending on the circumstances of the crime. Other theft charges you may be charged with include embezzlement, receiving stolen property, and shoplifting. Certain theft crimes may be punishable by enhanced penalties, such as theft against an older individual or repeated gas theft.

Legal penalties following a theft conviction can depend on the severity of the crime, if you have a prior history of similar convictions, and other factors of your case. Generally, penalties for a theft conviction include a jail or prison sentence, a fine, and a surcharge. For first convictions, the defendant may be required to enroll in a mandatory first-time offender class. First-degree theft requires the offender to pay restitution to the victim if convicted.

Hire a Theft Lawyer from the Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams PLLC

If you’re looking to hire a theft lawyer, look no further than Amanda T. Adams. Ms. Adams is a strong believer in keeping her clients in the loop on case developments through close communication. She is a compassionate and diligent defense law attorney who can be there for you every step of the way.

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Strong Criminal Defense for Your Theft Case

The Law Offices of Amanda T. Adams PLLC provides guidance through every step of your theft case. Reach out to our team today so we can schedule a meeting with a qualified Des Moines theft attorney.