Cobb County Theft Lawyer

Theft Charges We Defend

• Shoplifting
• Theft by taking
• Theft by receiving stolen property
• Theft by deception
• Theft by conversion
• Burglary

Misdemeanor or Felony?

Marietta, Ga. Whether a theft is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony usually depends on the value of the property and your prior record. Repeat shoplifting offenses can become felonies even when the amount is small, and a felony theft conviction can mean prison time and a permanent record.

Protecting Your Record

Many first-time theft cases may be eligible for pretrial diversion or First Offender treatment, which can keep a conviction off your record once completed. Eligibility depends on the charge and your history, so it is worth discussing before your first court date.

What a Theft Charge Can Mean in Georgia

Ranges set by Georgia law. Repeat offenses carry heavier penalties. Every case is different.

Theft of $1,500 or less	Misdemeanor: up to 12 months and a $1,000 fine
$1,500.01 to $5,000	Felony: 1 to 5 years
$5,000.01 to $25,000	Felony: 1 to 10 years
More than $25,000	Felony: 1 to 20 years
Burglary, first degree	1 to 20 years for a first conviction
Burglary, second degree	1 to 5 years for a first conviction

How Austin Checks the State’s Story

Before law school, Austin Nelson was a newspaper journalist and editor. He reads a police report the way an editor reads a story: looking for what is missing.

• Was there intent? Forgetting an item in a cart is not theft. The State must prove you meant to take it.
• What was it worth? Value decides the charge. We challenge inflated numbers and how they were calculated.
• What does the video show? Store and doorbell footage is often unclear or incomplete. We review all of it, not just the clip police kept.
• Is there a way to keep your record clean? First Offender, diversion and restitution can resolve many cases without a conviction.

Theft Frequently Asked Questions

The store sent me a letter demanding money. Should I pay it?

Georgia law allows stores to demand a civil penalty that is separate from the criminal case. Paying the demand does not end the criminal charge. Talk with an attorney before you respond.

Can a theft charge be dismissed?

Sometimes. Depending on the evidence and your history, a case may be dismissed, reduced or resolved through a diversion program. An attorney can review the evidence and explain your options.

Will a theft charge show up on background checks?

Arrests and charges can appear. A dismissal or completed First Offender sentence often allows the record to be restricted from most private background checks.

Is shoplifting a felony in Georgia?

It can be. Shoplifting is a felony when the property is worth more than $500 or when it is a fourth offense.

How much does a consultation cost?

Nothing. Consultations are free and confidential, and payment plans are available.