Theft Defense Attorneys Serving North Dakota and Minnesota

Facing a theft accusation is stressful and can often threaten your reputation, career, and freedom. Following these types of charges, it's common to be concerned about your future. At Nilson Brand Law, our attorneys can help lift that burden. We will listen to your story, evaluate the evidence against you, and help you build a strong defense.

Our criminal defense attorneys have years of combined experience in representing those charged with theft, and we are dedicated to helping you stand up for your legal rights. With offices in Fargo, Mayville, and Grand Forks, North Dakota, we serve clients throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Theft of Property Laws

Under North Dakota Century Code section 12.1-23-02, theft is defined as knowingly taking unauthorized control of another's property with the intent to deprive the owner thereof. This broad statute covers a wide range of actions, from shoplifting to keeping misdelivered property. The severity of the charge depends on the dollar value of the items in question.

If the property is valued at $500 or less, the state treats it as a class B misdemeanor. This low-level charge carries penalties of up to 30 days in jail and a $1,500 fine. If the value ranges from $501 to $1,000, prosecutors will charge it as a class A misdemeanor.

A class A misdemeanor conviction puts you at risk of nearly a year in jail and a $3,000 fine. However, the situation can escalate rapidly if the value exceeds $1,000, as the offense becomes a class C felony. Felony convictions typically result in prison sentences, financial penalties, and permanent damage to your record.

Stealing specific items like firearms, motor vehicles, or prescription drugs automatically triggers a felony charge regardless of their monetary value. This specific law impacts your life by putting your freedom, finances, and reputation on the line. At Nilson Brand Law, our North Dakota criminal defense attorneys will meticulously investigate the prosecution's evidence to see whether they can prove your intent beyond a reasonable doubt.

Sometimes, a simple misunderstanding leads to these harsh accusations, and prosecutors rush to file charges. We will fight to reveal the truth and show your side of the story.

Our Defense Services for Theft Charges

At Nilson Brand Law, our attorneys are experienced in providing comprehensive criminal defense services for those charged with theft crimes. We will evaluate the relevant factors in your case to help you build a strong defense. The common types of theft charges we often handle include the following:

• Petty theft: The willful taking of someone else's property that has a low monetary value. The value threshold is $1,000 in North Dakota and $500 in Minnesota.

• Grand larceny: The willful taking of someone else's property that has a monetary value higher than the petty theft thresholds.

• Shoplifting: Stealing merchandise from a store or vendor without paying for it.

• Possession of stolen goods: Owning, possessing, or purchasing items that were stolen. This charge usually only applies if you know or reasonably should have known that the goods were stolen.

• Robbery: The taking of someone else's property through the use of threats or force. Robbery charges can sometimes be upgraded to armed robbery if the theft involves the use of a weapon.

• Embezzlement: Stealing funds from a company or business or purposely misappropriating funds for your personal benefit.

Each of these offenses requires a distinct defense strategy to challenge the prosecution's claims. Our attorneys will examine relevant police reports, witness statements, and security footage to find potential weaknesses in the state's case.

Why You Should Hire Us for Your Defense

If you are facing criminal charges, our attorneys can advocate for your best interests. We understand how local prosecutors build their cases, and we will use that insight to dismantle their arguments, suppress illegally obtained evidence, and protect your constitutional rights wherever possible.

Our approach focuses on clear communication, thorough preparation, and aggressive advocacy. We will thoroughly explain every step of the judicial process, from the initial arraignment to a potential trial, to keep you informed and empower you to make the best choices for your future.

Contact Our North Dakota Criminal Defense Attorneys Today

Being charged with theft can have significant consequences, but there are ways you can build a defense and stand up for your rights. At Nilson Brand Law, our attorneys aren't afraid to litigate when prosecutors refuse to offer a fair and just resolution. Whether we negotiate a complete dismissal or take your case to trial, we will fight tirelessly for you.

Our firm values hard work, and we apply that work ethic to every single file we open. We will review police reports to find factual inconsistencies and procedural errors, interview witnesses, and gather our own evidence to effectively counter the state's narrative.

With offices in Fargo, Mayville, and Grand Forks, North Dakota, we serve clients throughout North Dakota and Minnesota. Contact our criminal defense attorneys today to schedule a consultation and discover the best strategies for your defense.