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Chicago Theft & Property Crime Defense Attorneys

Theft Charges Can Follow You Forever

A theft conviction affects jobs, housing, and your reputation. From retail theft to armed robbery, we fight to protect your record and your future.

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Free ConsultationsAvailable 24/7Former Prosecutor

Understanding Theft & Property Crime Defense

Theft crimes in Illinois range from misdemeanor shoplifting to serious felonies like burglary and armed robbery. Even minor theft charges can have lasting consequences—employers routinely reject applicants with theft convictions. Our defense team understands what's at stake and fights aggressively to get charges reduced or dismissed.

Theft & Property Crime Defense Charges We Handle

Retail Theft (Shoplifting)

varies

Theft from retail stores, including concealment and price switching

Theft Under $500

misdemeanor

Class A Misdemeanor theft of property under $500

Theft Over $500

felony

Felony theft based on value of property taken

Burglary

felony

Unauthorized entry with intent to commit theft or felony

Residential Burglary

felony

Burglary of an occupied dwelling

Armed Robbery

felony

Robbery committed while armed with a weapon

Identity Theft

felony

Using another person's identifying information

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Illinois Theft & Property Crime Defense Penalties

These are the potential consequences you face. We fight to reduce or eliminate them.

Retail Theft Under $300 (Class A Misdemeanor)

Jail/Prison:Up to 1 year
Fines:Up to $2,500
Civil liability to store
Permanent theft record
Retail theft class

Theft Over $500 (Class 3 Felony)

Jail/Prison:2-5 years
Fines:Up to $25,000
Felony record
Restitution required
Employment impact

Armed Robbery (Class X Felony)

Jail/Prison:6-30 years
Fines:Up to $25,000
No probation available
15-year firearm enhancement
Truth-in-sentencing

Common Defense Strategies

Every case has potential defenses. Here's how we challenge theft & property crime defense charges.

Lack of Intent

Many theft charges require proof of intent to permanently deprive the owner. Borrowing or mistakes can negate intent.

Claim of Right

If you believed you had a legitimate claim to the property, this can be a complete defense.

Mistaken Identity

Surveillance footage is often unclear. We challenge identification evidence.

Value Challenge

The value of stolen property determines the charge level. We challenge inflated valuations.

Unauthorized Entry Issues

For burglary charges, we examine whether entry was truly unauthorized.

Consent

If the owner consented to you taking the property, there's no theft.

These are just starting points. Your specific case may have unique defense opportunities.

Discuss Your Defense Options
Video Guide

Understanding Theft & Property Crime Defense in Illinois

Watch Attorney Castellano explain theft & property crime defense charges, potential penalties, and how we build winning defense strategies.

  • What prosecutors must prove
  • Common weaknesses in these cases
  • What to expect in your case
Watch More Videos
HeyGen AI Video3:45

Illinois Law: Key Statutes

720 ILCS 5/16-1

General theft statute defining theft and penalties by value.

720 ILCS 5/19-1

Burglary - unauthorized entry with intent to commit felony or theft.

720 ILCS 5/18-2

Armed robbery elements and mandatory sentencing.

This is general information only. Consult with an attorney about how these laws apply to your specific case.

Theft & Property Crime Defense Case Results

Real results for clients facing similar charges. Every case is different, but these outcomes show what's possible.

DISMISSED

Retail Theft

Completed retail theft diversion program

REDUCED

Burglary

Reduced to criminal trespass, probation only

NOT GUILTY

Armed Robbery

Eyewitness identification successfully challenged

View All Case Results

Frequently Asked Questions: Theft & Property Crime Defense

Can I be arrested for shoplifting after leaving the store?
Yes. Illinois law allows stores to detain you if they have reasonable grounds to believe you committed retail theft. You can also be arrested days or weeks later if you're identified through surveillance footage.
What's the difference between theft and robbery?
Theft is taking property without consent. Robbery is theft using force or threat of force. Armed robbery involves a weapon. Robbery charges are much more serious than simple theft.
Can a first-time shoplifting charge be dismissed?
Often, yes. First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs, supervision, or a plea to a lesser charge that can later be expunged. An experienced attorney can negotiate these outcomes.
What is retail theft civil demand?
Illinois law allows stores to send civil demand letters seeking payment for shoplifting, typically $150-$500. Paying or not paying doesn't affect the criminal case. We advise clients on how to handle these demands.
Is burglary the same as home invasion?
No. Burglary is entering any building or vehicle with intent to commit a crime. Home invasion is entering an occupied residence knowing someone is present. Home invasion is a Class X felony with harsher penalties.

Related Practice Areas

White CollarFederal CrimesView All Practice Areas →

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