Theft by Deception Utah - Criminal Defense Lawyer Salt Lake

If you are facing criminal charges for theft by deception in Utah, you could be facing substantial jail or prison time as well as thousands of dollars in fines. Theft by deception charges in Utah combine elements of theft with elements of fraud. Hiring an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney can be the best step toward ensuring that your rights are protected. Based in Salt Lake City, criminal lawyer Stephen Howard has a track record of achieving real results.

Elements of a Theft by Deception Charge in Utah

Utah criminal law contains several varieties of "theft" crimes. The offense of theft by deception occurs when a person "obtains or exercises control over property of another by deception and with a purpose to deprive him thereof." The element of "deception" does not change the level of this theft offense, but it often means that other crimes may be filed in addition to the theft by deception charge.

One typical combination of charges is theft by deception and forgery. A person accused of passing a forged check and receiving cash by falsely representing that the check is good my be charged with both forgery (for passing the bad check) as well as theft by deception (for obtaining the cash by deception).

Another typical combination arises when a person is accused of pawning stolen property. In this circumstance, a prosecutor may file a charge of theft by receiving stolen property for possessing the stolen property that is being pawned, as well as a charge of theft by deception for obtaining payment from the pawn shop by falsely representing to the pawn shop that he or she had authority to sell or dispose of the property.

Penalties for Theft by Deception in Utah

Whether a charge of theft by deception is charged as a misdemeanor or felony will usually depend on the value of the items taken. At its lowest level, a conviction for misdemeanor theft by deception is punishable by up to 180 days jail. As values increase, a theft by deception charge can result in a second degree felony conviction and up to 15 years in prison.

Choosing the Best Utah Criminal Attorney for Your Case

When you are facing criminal charges of theft by deception, you need an attorney who really understands how to get results. Many attorneys claim to be "aggressive." But you need an attorney who knows how to fight hard, and fight smart. Stephen Howard has a track record that includes not guilty verdicts and outright dismissals on some of the most serious criminal charges on the books in Utah. While no attorney can guarantee a particular result for your case, having an experienced attorney can help ensure that your rights are protected.

Based in Salt Lake City, criminal defense attorney Stephen Howard offers legal services to clients throughout Utah.  If you are facing criminal charges for theft by deception, you need an attorney on your side who gets real results.  Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.