Felony Theft Lawyer Scottsdale

Facing a felony theft charge in Scottsdale can be overwhelming, intimidating, and life-altering. Unlike petty theft or shoplifting, felony theft involves significant monetary value and carries harsh penalties, including prison time, heavy fines, and a permanent criminal record. A conviction can damage your reputation, limit your employment opportunities, and affect every area of your life.

If you’re accused of felony theft, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale who knows how to fight smart, not just hard. At Attorney Josh, we build strategic, customized legal defenses tailored to each client’s case. Led by Joshua A. Lopez, Esq., our firm serves Scottsdale, Phoenix, and the surrounding areas. Our approach is straightforward: Strong Defense. Strong Results.

What Is Felony Theft in Arizona?

In Arizona, felony theft is generally defined under A.R.S. §13-1802. Theft becomes a felony when the value of the property or services stolen exceeds a certain threshold, or if the circumstances involve aggravating factors like prior convictions, organized theft rings, or use of force.

Felony theft charges can arise from:

• Shoplifting expensive merchandise
• Embezzling from an employer
• Stealing a vehicle
• Possessing stolen property
• Identity theft or credit card fraud
• Misappropriating funds or assets

The severity of the charge depends primarily on the value of what was taken and the method used. But make no mistake: even if no one was harmed, a felony theft charge can follow you for life.

That’s why having a seasoned Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale is crucial for minimizing damage and fighting for your rights.

Arizona Felony Theft Classification and Penalties

Arizona classifies felony theft into different levels (Classes 6 through 2) based on the value of the stolen item(s):

• Class 6 Felony: $1,000–$2,000
  Up to 2 years in prison for first-time offenders
• Class 5 Felony: $2,000–$3,000
  Up to 2.5 years in prison
• Class 4 Felony: $3,000–$4,000
  Up to 3.75 years in prison
• Class 3 Felony: $4,000–$25,000
  Up to 8.75 years in prison
• Class 2 Felony: Over $25,000
  Up to 12.5 years in prison

These sentences can increase dramatically if:

• You have prior felony convictions
• The offense involved a vulnerable victim
• The theft was part of an organized scheme
• A weapon was used or implied

Beyond incarceration, a felony theft conviction can lead to probation, restitution, fines, loss of civil rights, and immigration consequences for non-citizens.

That’s why you need an aggressive Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, or take your case to trial when necessary.

What the Prosecution Must Prove

To convict you of felony theft, the State must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

1. You knowingly took someone else’s property, and
2. You intended to deprive them of it permanently

The burden is on the prosecution to prove your actions were both intentional and criminal. But in many felony theft cases, the facts are not so clear. The situation may involve:

• A misunderstanding over ownership
• A lack of intent to steal
• A mistaken identity

• False accusations in a family or business dispute

At Attorney Josh, we evaluate the evidence from every angle to find the weaknesses in the State’s case. Our job as your Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale is to protect your rights, question every assumption, and fight for the most favorable outcome possible.

Common Defenses to Felony Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, and we tailor our defense strategy accordingly. As your dedicated Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, Attorney Josh may use one or more of the following defenses:

1. Lack of Intent

You must have knowingly and intentionally taken the property. If there’s no proof of intent—only suspicion or misunderstanding—the prosecution may not be able to proceed.

2. Ownership or Right to Possession

If you had a good-faith belief that the property was yours or that you had the right to use it, you may not be criminally liable.

3. Mistaken Identity

In cases involving surveillance footage, eyewitnesses, or online transactions, it’s possible law enforcement arrested the wrong person.

4. Insufficient Evidence

If the prosecution can’t prove the value of the property, or if the chain of custody is broken, we may seek to have the case dismissed.

5. Entrapment or Coercion

In rare cases, defendants are persuaded or manipulated into committing theft by others, such as law enforcement or informants.

Our team uses investigation, expert witnesses, and aggressive motions practice to build your defense and shift the leverage in your favor.

First-Time Felony Offenders: Is There Hope?

Yes. If this is your first criminal charge, Arizona courts offer alternative sentencing options or diversion programs in certain circumstances. These may include:

• Pretrial diversion (avoiding prosecution if restitution is paid and counseling is completed)
• Deferred judgment (charges dismissed after probation period)
• Reduced charges (felony reduced to misdemeanor through plea negotiation)

As a smart, strategic Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale, Attorney Josh pursues every opportunity to keep your record clean, minimize jail time, and preserve your future.

Felony Theft and Immigration Consequences

If you’re a non-U.S. citizen (even with a green card), a conviction for felony theft can have serious immigration consequences, including:

• Deportation

• Inadmissibility for future visas

• Loss of legal permanent resident status

Felony theft is often classified as a “crime of moral turpitude”, which triggers strict immigration enforcement. At Attorney Josh, we build felony theft defenses with an understanding of how immigration law intersects with criminal law—because your defense must protect every aspect of your life.

Steps to Take If You’ve Been Charged

If you’re facing felony theft charges in Scottsdale or Phoenix, follow these steps immediately:

1. Do not speak to police or investigators without your attorney present.
2. Do not try to explain yourself or return property without legal guidance.
3. Gather any documents or communications related to the incident (emails, texts, receipts).
4. Call Attorney Josh right away for a free consultation.
5. Do not delay—your early decisions can shape the outcome of your case.

Why Clients Choose Attorney Josh

When your freedom, future, and reputation are on the line, you need more than just legal representation—you need a smart, tactical legal advocate. Here’s why Attorney Josh is the top choice for those needing a Felony Theft Lawyer in Scottsdale:

Smart Legal Tactics

We analyze every detail and exploit every weakness in the prosecution’s case.

Strong Results

From charge reductions to full dismissals and trial victories, we fight for real outcomes.

Strategic Negotiation

We don’t just accept the first plea offer. We push for favorable terms or alternatives that work in your favor.

Personal Attention

Work directly with Joshua A. Lopez, Esq.—not a junior associate.

Courtroom Experience

We’ve handled high-stakes criminal cases in Maricopa County and throughout Arizona.

Reputation for Excellence

Prosecutors know we come prepared. Judges know we don’t bluff. And our clients know we deliver.

How We Can Help

A felony theft charge can turn your world upside down. But with the right defense, the right strategy, and the right lawyer, you can take back control of your future.

At Attorney Josh, we offer more than just legal representation—we offer protection, guidance, and a clear path forward. Whether you’re falsely accused, made a mistake, or caught up in a misunderstanding, we’re here to fight for your freedom and your reputation.

Call now for a free consultation.
Let’s start building your defense—together.

Attorney Josh
Strong Defense. Strong Results.