Tacoma, WA Felony Theft Defense Attorney

Skilled Felony Theft Defense Lawyer Defending Clients Against Serious Property Charges in Tacoma, Washington

Facing a theft charge on your own can be intimidating. Your reputation could be seriously hurt even before the case is decided, and if you are convicted, you could end up facing a lengthy prison sentence depending on the facts of the case. With all that in mind, a measured response is critical in cases such as these. A Tacoma, WA felony theft defense attorney can advise you on how to respond and represent you in a court of criminal law.

With over 30 years of legal experience, The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer has the skills and knowledge to effectively represent clients facing felony theft charges. We can review your case in detail, looking for mitigating factors and identifying possible defenses.

How Is First-Degree Theft Prosecuted in Washington?

First-degree theft in Washington generally involves property or services valued at more than $5,000. A person may also face first-degree theft charges for taking property of any value directly from another person. Certain emergency response property, commercial metal property, and other specific categories may also elevate the charge depending on the facts.

First-degree theft is a Class B felony. A conviction can carry up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. Prosecutors may rely on receipts, bank records, surveillance footage, witness statements, business records, or property valuations to prove the amount allegedly taken. Because value can affect the severity of the charge, it may become a major point of dispute.

What Are the Penalties for Theft of a Firearm in Tacoma, WA?

Theft of a firearm is treated separately from ordinary theft in Washington. The value of the firearm does not control the seriousness of the offense. If the state alleges that a person stole a firearm, the charge may be filed as a Class B felony.

Additional consequences may apply if the firearm was allegedly used, sold, transferred, or connected to another criminal offense. A firearm-related felony conviction can also affect gun rights, employment opportunities, housing, and future sentencing exposure.

Is it a Crime to Possess Stolen Property?

Possessing stolen property can be charged as a separate crime in Washington. The state does not have to prove that the accused person committed the original theft. Instead, prosecutors must prove that the person knowingly received, retained, possessed, concealed, or disposed of stolen property. Possession cases may involve disputed ownership, shared spaces, borrowed items, online purchases, or property left behind by someone else. These details can shape the defense.

Charges for Stealing a Motor Vehicle in Washington

Stealing a motor vehicle is also charged separately from general theft. Like theft of a firearm, theft of a motor vehicle does not depend on the vehicle's value, and is charged as a Class B felony.

Motor vehicle theft cases may involve allegations of taking a car without permission, using a vehicle after permission ended, or participating in a broader theft scheme. Prosecutors look at surveillance footage, license plate readers, ignition damage, fingerprints, statements, or possession of keys to build a case.

Strategies to Defend Against Theft Charges in Tacoma

Theft charges often turn on intent, value, identification, and possession. Depending on the facts, a defense may involve:

• Challenging whether the accused intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property
• Disputing the value of the property when prosecutors use it to justify a more serious charge
• Arguing mistaken identity or weak evidence tying the accused person to the alleged theft
• Questioning whether the accused knew property was stolen

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, our firm will review every detail of your case, from how the investigation began to how the evidence is being presented in court. We will work to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's claims and pursue a dismissal, reduction of charges, or acquittal when the facts support it.

Contact a Tacoma Theft Defense Attorney Today

At The Law Office of Michael Austin Stewart Criminal Defense Lawyer, we help clients accused of theft push back against the case being built against them. Call 253-442-7544 or contact our Tacoma, Washington theft defense lawyer to schedule a free consultation.