A theft or shoplifting charge can feel humiliating and scary — and it can follow you onto background checks for years. In Woodstock and across Cherokee County, we know the local courts and how to fight back.
At MM Criminal Defense, we defend people charged with theft in Woodstock and throughout Cherokee County. We are a woman-led firm founded by two former prosecutors, and we spent years on the other side of these exact cases. We know how the State builds them — and how to take them apart.
Georgia Theft Law, in Plain English
Under Georgia law, theft by taking (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2) covers unlawfully taking someone else’s property, and shoplifting (O.C.G.A. § 16-8-14) covers retail theft. The value of the property usually decides the stakes.
Theft of property valued at $1,500 or less is generally a misdemeanor, while more than $1,500 can be charged as a felony. Prior shoplifting convictions can also elevate the charge — which is why how the case is handled early on matters so much.
Where Your Woodstock Theft Case Is Heard
A theft or shoplifting arrest by Woodstock police may first appear in Woodstock Municipal Court, but theft is prosecuted under Georgia law — misdemeanor theft in Cherokee County State Court and felony theft in Cherokee County Superior Court (Blue Ridge Judicial Circuit). We know how these courts handle these cases.
How We Help
- Move fast to protect your record and your reputation
- Test the State’s proof of intent and the actual value of the property
- Explore restitution, civil compromise, and pretrial diversion
- Pursue First Offender treatment or record restriction where you qualify
- Fight for reduction or dismissal — and prepare for trial when that is the right call
- Explain every step in plain language so you are never left guessing
Why MM Criminal Defense
We are based right here in Marietta, we practice in Cherokee County courts, and our attorneys prosecuted cases in this county before switching sides. That means we can anticipate the State’s playbook — and we do it with warmth, respect, and zero judgment.
One mistake shouldn’t define your future. Let’s protect it.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Do not wait to get help. Call MM Criminal Defense for a free, no-judgment consultation at (770) 693-4357. We will explain your options in plain English and start protecting your record today.
Common Questions
Is theft a felony in Georgia?
It usually turns on value. Theft of property worth $1,500 or less is generally a misdemeanor; more than $1,500 can be a felony. Prior convictions can also raise the charge.
Can theft charges be dropped if I pay it back?
Sometimes. Restitution, a civil compromise, or a diversion program can lead to reduced or dismissed charges in the right case. We’ll pursue every option that fits your situation.
Do you offer free consultations?
Yes. Your first consultation is free and completely confidential. Call us at (770) 693-4357 and we will talk through what you are facing and how we can help.