If you have a question concerning a theft or shoplifting crime in Snohomish or Skagit County, call (360) 659-4950 today for a free consultation/case assessment.

Ashbach Law Offices, LLC has extensive history successfully representing clients who have been, or are about to be, charged with theft or shoplifting crimes. Recent history includes many dismissals, reductions in charges, agreed recommendations to dismiss cases after a period of time, and in several cases, negotiating Theft in the First Degree (most serious felony) into eventual dismissals. We know what it takes to get you a great result when you are charged with a theft or shoplifting crime. If you, or someone you care about, has been charged with theft or shoplifting, call us at (360) 659-4950 today for a free, no-pressure consultation. Please read more for additional information:

In general, “Theft” is

• the unlawful acquisition or exertion of unauthorized control over another’s property or services
• with intent to deprive the owner of such property or services
• OR to obtain by color or aid of deception
• OR to appropriate lost or misdelivered property or services of another with the intent to deprive him or her of such property or services

Theft is typically split up into three degrees, ranging from most serious (first degree) to least (third degree). First Degree Theft and Second Degree theft are felonies, while Theft in the Third Degree is a gross misdemeanor. Except for high-value items, shoplifting is typically charged as Theft in the Third Degree.

Recently, the dollar values dividing the various degrees of theft have changed, the legislature updating the dollar amount presumably to reflect inflation since the last time the statutes were passed.

Here is the breakdown:

Third Degree Theft:  Theft of property (or services) which are not valued in excess of $750. Note that even if the item has zero value, it still can be the basis for a theft charge.
Second Degree Theft:  Theft of property (or services) that does not exceed $5000 in value. Also, it includes theft of public records. Specifically excluded are Theft of a Firearm and Theft of a Motor Vehicle.
First Degree Theft:  Theft of property  (or services) in excess of $5000, theft of a rescue dog while the dog is on duty, or theft of property from another. Please note: there is a thin line between First Degree Theft and Second Degree Robbery; robbery is generally considered to be the more serious charge.

In addition to the classical divisions of theft crimes (First through Third), there are various other crimes falling under the general “theft” umbrella, such as: Theft of a Firearm, Taking a Motor Vehicle Without Permission, Theft with Intent to Resell, Organized Retail Theft, Identity Theft, Unlawful Issuance of Bad Checks, Trafficking in Stolen Property, and Possession of Stolen Property.

Ashbach Law Offices, LLC represents those charged with Theft in the First, Second or Third Degree (or other variations of theft) charges arising out of Arlington, Edmonds, Everett, Granite Falls, Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Monroe, and the rest of Snohomish County, Washington. We also have extensive practice in Skagit County, and have an office located in Burlington, Washington. Our defense attorneys, or defense lawyers, fight hard for the best results.

These charges are typically filed in Cascade District Court, Edmonds Municipal Court, Everett District Court, Everett Municipal Court, Evergreen District Court, Lynnwood Municipal Court, Marysville Municipal Court, and South District Court, all located in Snohomish County, Washington.

If you, or someone you care about, have or has been charged with Theft in the First, Second or Third Degree, or other variations of theft, call Ashbach Law Offices, LLC at (360) 659-4950 for a FREE CONSULTATION today.

RCW 9A.56.050 - Theft in the third degree.

(1) A person is guilty of theft in the third degree if he or she commits theft of property or services which (a) does not exceed seven hundred fifty dollars in value, or (b) includes ten or more merchandise pallets, or ten or more beverage crates, or a combination of ten or more merchandise pallets and beverage crates.

(2) Theft in the third degree is a gross misdemeanor.