Need Theft and Property Offences Cases Solicitors?

Theft is the dishonest taking of property belonging to another. Burglary involves entering a building or part of a building as a trespasser with intent to steal, cause criminal damage, or commit GBH. Residential burglary carries up to 14 years imprisonment, while theft alone typically has a maximum of 7 years. Our theft and property offences cases solicitors will explain the specific charges against you and build the strongest defence.

Yes. While shoplifting convictions often rely on CCTV footage or eyewitness identification, prosecutors can also use indirect evidence such as matching goods found in your possession, suspicious behaviour on CCTV, and inventory records from the store. Our defence solicitors thoroughly challenge identification evidence and examine whether the prosecution can prove their case beyond reasonable doubt.

Handling stolen goods requires proof that you knew or had reason to believe the goods were stolen. This is often the weakest element of the prosecution's case. Our theft and property offences cases solicitors examine the circumstances of how you came into possession of the goods, your relationship with the alleged thief, and whether there was any reasonable explanation for believing the goods were legitimately obtained.

The key difference is the use of force or threat of force. Robbery involves stealing from someone while using force or threatening to use force immediately. Burglary involves entering a building as a trespasser. A robbery can become an aggravated robbery if the offender is armed with a weapon or uses threats of violence. Robbery carries severe penalties, including life imprisonment for armed robbery, making expert legal representation essential.

Not necessarily. First-time offenders for minor theft may receive conditional discharges, community orders, or fines rather than immediate custody. However, aggravating factors such as high value of goods, professional planning, breach of trust, or violence can result in custodial sentences. Our theft and property offences cases solicitors present strong mitigation to the court, emphasising personal circumstances, remorse, and steps taken to address underlying issues.

Timelines vary significantly. Simple shoplifting cases in the magistrates' court may resolve within 2-4 months. More complex cases involving multiple defendants, extensive CCTV evidence, or Crown Court trials can take 6-12 months or longer. Our theft and property offences cases solicitors keep clients informed throughout and work efficiently to resolve cases where possible.