Theft Lawyers - MM Criminal Defense

Q: Can a theft charge be kept off my record?

Often yes, through diversion, First Offender treatment, or a negotiated outcome. We will tell you what is realistic for your case.

A theft charge can put your reputation, your job, and your record on the line — sometimes over a misunderstanding, a dispute, or a single bad decision. Whatever brought you here, you deserve a defense that sees the whole person, not just the accusation.

These cases are often more defensible than they first appear.

How Theft Charges Work in Georgia

Georgia law covers a range of theft offenses, including theft by taking under O.C.G.A. § 16-8-2. Whether a theft charge is a misdemeanor or a felony often turns on the value involved — generally, theft of property valued at $1,500 or less is treated as a misdemeanor, while higher amounts can be charged as felonies with far heavier consequences.

How We Defend Theft Cases

Scrutinize intent: theft requires the intent to unlawfully take or keep property, and that’s not always what really happened.
Challenge the value: the dollar amount can be the line between a misdemeanor and a felony, and it’s often inflated or disputed.
Examine the evidence: receipts, video, ownership, and witness accounts usually tell a more complicated story.
Pursue diversion and restitution-based resolutions that protect your record where possible.

Why MM

Good people end up facing theft charges for all kinds of reasons. We’ll handle yours with discretion, zero judgment, and a real plan.

One disputed price tag can turn a misdemeanor into a felony. We read those tags very, very closely.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Call us at 770-693-4357 for a free, judgment-free consultation — we’ll talk through your situation and your options, no pressure.

Common Questions

Is shoplifting really a serious charge?

It can be more serious than people expect, and it can surface on background checks. Even a ‘small’ theft charge is worth defending properly.

Can a theft charge be kept off my record?

Often, yes — through diversion, First Offender treatment, or a negotiated outcome. We’ll tell you what’s realistic for your case.

Theft Defense by City

We defend these charges across metro Atlanta. If you were arrested in one of these communities, we have a local page for you: