Hirsch Law Group: Your Chicago Property Crimes Attorney

Chicago Property Crimes Lawyer

Were you accused or arrested for theft or burglary? These types of crimes are classified as property crimes in Illinois. A conviction for property crimes can have life-changing consequences.

It can affect your criminal record and limit your job prospects. Additionally, lengthy jail sentences may result in separation from your loved ones.

If you or your loved ones have been charged with a property crime, consider hiring an experienced property crimes attorney. Skilled lawyers from the Hirsch Law Group can fight for your interests. We have the knowledge and skills to help you avoid a conviction. Our attorneys can provide professional legal counsel and protect your rights.

What Is a Property Crime?

Property crimes refer to acts of reckless or intentional damage, destruction, or theft of another person’s property. It includes breaking and entering into or setting fire to someone’s property.

Property crime charges may arise regardless of whether the property was stolen or destroyed. In such cases, what matters is your wilful intent to deprive the owner of their property.

Illinois takes property crimes very seriously, especially when they cause physical injury to another person or damage an occupied building. Depending on the specifics of the offense, property crimes may be minor misdemeanors or major felonies punishable by hefty statutory fines and prison sentences.

Types of Property Crimes in Illinois

Several criminal offenses fall under the umbrella of Illinois property crimes. Some specific types of property crime cases include:

Theft

In simple words, it means taking control of someone else’s property without their permission. It is done with the intention to permanently deprive the owners of its benefits. A common example is retail theft or shoplifting.

Retail theft is committed when you take an item from a store without paying. A conviction for stealing something over $10,000 but not exceeding $100,000 in value is punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison. Your penalties may be extended if you use a weapon.

Robbery

Taking someone else’s property using force or threat of force is termed as robbery. Using a firearm or any other dangerous weapon while committing a robbery is termed an armed robbery. An armed robbery is a Class X felony punishable by 6 to 30 years in prison.

Burglary

Entering a person’s residence, motor vehicle, aircraft, etc., with the intention to commit theft or a felony. A burglary that damages property is punishable by 3 to 7 years in prison. A burglary & robbery lawyer could argue and fight the charges leveled against you.

Arson

Using fire or explosives to intentionally damage someone’s property. You may be charged with aggravated arson if someone suffers great bodily harm. You may also be charged with residential arson if you set fire to someone’s home. Residential arson is punishable by 4 to 15 years imprisonment.

Criminal Trespassing

Knowingly entering a person’s residence without their consent. It may involve using deception or remaining on a property without permission. Trespassing on a property may result in a Class A or Class B misdemeanor.

Institutional Vandalism

Damaging property such as a school or religious building due to certain factors, including religion, race, sexual orientation, or disability. Criminal damage exceeding $500 is a Class 2 felony and may result in 3 to 7 years in prison.

Embezzlement

Misappropriating property entrusted to you by someone. Embezzled property between $500 and $10,000 is punishable by 3 to 5 years in prison. If you are facing embezzlement charges in Illinois, an embezzlement attorney can help.

Whether you were accused of theft or arson, a criminal defense attorney can help you avoid the consequences of these charges. We can help you prepare for your case using a variety of criminal defense techniques.

What Are the Penalties for Property Crimes?

Property crimes may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor based on several factors:

  • The value of the stolen or damaged property

  • The nature of the crime

  • Whether there was violence or threat of violence

  • Whether an injury was caused during the commission of the crime

  • Prior conviction for a property crime or other offenses

Being convicted of property crimes can lead to imprisonment, probation, and significant fines. If the court orders restitution, they may seize your personal property to satisfy the order. Failing to pay restitution may lead to a revocation of any supervised release granted. It may disrupt your life and lead to humiliation for you and your family.

A conviction may also result in a criminal record affecting your current and future job opportunities. It may also affect your housing, professional license, and educational opportunities. If the victim is injured, they may bring a personal injury lawsuit against you. This may involve substantial compensation claims being brought against you.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, a criminal conviction may affect your immigration benefits. It may lead to the denial of your green card or citizenship application. It may also lead to deportation and ineligibility to return to the United States.

Property crimes come with serious repercussions, which can significantly impact your life. However, with the help of a Chicago criminal defense lawyer, you can avoid or limit those consequences.

How Can a Property Crimes Lawyer Help You?

Were you arrested for a property crime in Chicago? Are you worried about how to deal with it? A property crimes attorney can assist you in a variety of ways. They can:

  • Review your charges and inform you about the possible consequences.

  • Determine suitable defense strategies against property crime charges.

  • Represent clients facing criminal charges for property crimes. Property crimes attorneys are familiar with Illinois courts and understand how the prosecution works.

  • Arrange a plea bargain on your behalf. An alternative sentence may help you avoid a criminal record or jail sentence.

Do You Still Have Questions? Speak to the Hirsch Law Group Today!

Even if you are charged with a crime, you are innocent until proven guilty. Prosecutors must prove beyond reasonable doubt that you intended to commit the crime. When your rights are on the line, consider hiring a Chicago property crimes attorney who understands the criminal justice system.

At Hirsch Law Group, our lawyers investigate the accusations made against you and examine all witness statements. We also work hard to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We understand the severity of the charges and fight to protect your rights.

Our experienced attorneys provide a free initial consultation. Contact our law offices today to learn more about property crimes and how we can help!