Philadelphia Theft & Property Crimes Attorney

Smart Defense for Serious Accusations

If you’ve been charged with theft, burglary, robbery, or any property-related crime in Philadelphia, you’re likely feeling overwhelmed, frustrated—and maybe even misunderstood. Whether it was a mistake, a misunderstanding, or you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time, you deserve a defense that tells your side of the story and protects your future.

At Thomas & Robbins LLC, I handle everything from retail theft to felony burglary, building strategic defenses that challenge weak evidence, push back against overcharged cases, and fight for reduced penalties—or full dismissal.

Understanding Theft & Property Crimes

Theft and property crimes in Pennsylvania range from misdemeanors like shoplifting to felony-level offenses like robbery or burglary. These charges suggest you took, damaged, or tried to take something that didn’t belong to you—but every situation is different, and intent matters more than most people realize.

Whether you’re accused of stealing, trespassing, or damaging property, the prosecution must prove you knew what you were doing—and meant to do it. That gives us room to build a strong defense.

Common factors that affect your case include:

  • Value of the property involved
  • Use or threat of force (which can raise theft to robbery)
  • Whether a weapon was present
  • Prior convictions or first-time offender status
  • Your intent—or lack of it

Types of Theft & Property Crimes I Defend

01

Theft by Unlawful Taking

This includes shoplifting, stealing personal property, or taking something that doesn’t belong to you. Penalties depend on the value of the item and your record.

03

Robbery

Robbery involves using force—or the threat of force—while committing a theft. It’s a felony and carries serious penalties, but these charges are often overcharged or misrepresented, especially if no weapon or injury was involved.

05

Criminal Trespass

Entering or remaining on someone else’s property without permission. Often confused with burglary but typically carries lower penalties.

07

Vandalism / Criminal Mischief

Includes intentional property damage—like graffiti or destroying someone’s belongings. Charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies based on the value of the damage.

02

Receiving Stolen Property

You can be charged even if you didn’t steal something—just possessing property you knew or should have known was stolen is enough. But proving that knowledge is not always easy for the prosecution.

04

Burglary

Unlawfully entering a building with the intent to commit a crime inside. This is a serious felony offense and can carry heavy prison time, even if nothing was taken.

06

Forgery & Fraud

Using someone else’s identity or creating false documents (like checks or credit applications) can lead to felony charges.

Theft & Property Crime FAQ

Your Questions Answered

  • Is shoplifting a felony in Pennsylvania?

    It depends on the value of the item and whether you’ve been charged before. Under $150 is usually a summary or misdemeanor, but repeat offenses or thefts over certain dollar amounts can be felonies.

  • Can I be charged if I didn’t actually steal anything?

    Yes. Charges like conspiracy, attempt, or receiving stolen property don’t always require direct theft—but they still must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

  • What if I didn’t know the property was stolen?

    That’s a strong defense. For receiving stolen property, the DA must prove you knew or should have known it was stolen. If they can’t, the case may not hold up.

  • Is it possible to avoid jail for a theft charge?

    Yes. Especially for first-time, non-violent offenses, you may qualify for diversion programs, community service, probation, or conditional discharge.

  • Will this stay on my record forever?

    A conviction can stay on your record—but if your charges are dismissed, withdrawn, or resolved through a program, you may be eligible for expungement or record sealing.