Arizona Theft & Fraud Crimes Lawyers
Accused of theft, fraud, shoplifting, or identity theft in Arizona? A former judge, prosecutor, and police officer defending your rights and your future.
Defending Against Theft & Fraud Charges in Arizona
Theft and fraud charges in Arizona carry serious consequences that can follow you for life. Fraud schemes under A.R.S. 13-2310 and theft under A.R.S. §13-1802 are aggressively prosecuted, and penalties depend heavily on the value of property involved and your prior record.
From shoplifting to grand theft to identity theft, our team handles all theft and fraud cases across Arizona courts. At Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense, we bring together the experience of a former judge, former prosecutors, and a former police officer to build the strongest possible defense for your case.
Types of Theft & Fraud Cases We Handle
We defend clients against the full range of theft and fraud charges in Arizona:
Fraud Schemes
Creating a scheme or artifice to defraud under A.R.S. 13-2310. Includes wire fraud, mail fraud, Ponzi schemes, and obtaining benefit by false or fraudulent pretenses.
Identity Theft
Unlawful use of another person’s personal identifying information under A.R.S. §13-2008. Class 4 felony carrying up to 2.5 years presumptive prison.
Shoplifting
Removing merchandise from a retail establishment without paying under A.R.S. §13-1805. Class 1 misdemeanor for items under $1,000 — same class as DUI.
Theft / Grand Theft
Knowingly taking property without lawful authority under A.R.S. §13-1802. Penalties range from misdemeanor to Class 2 felony depending on value.
Arizona Theft & Fraud Penalties
Penalties for theft and fraud in Arizona vary by offense type, value of property, and criminal history:
Fraud Schemes — Class 2 Felony
3 to 12.5 years in prison for a first offense. If benefit exceeds $100,000, mandatory prison time applies. One of the most serious non-violent felonies in Arizona.
Identity Theft — Class 4 Felony
2.5 years presumptive sentence. Restitution to the victim is typically required. Additional charges may apply if multiple victims are involved.
Shoplifting — Class 1 Misdemeanor
Up to 6 months in jail and $2,500 in fines for items under $1,000. Third offense within 5 years becomes a Class 4 felony. Same classification as DUI.
Grand Theft — Varies by Value
$1,000–$2,000 = Class 6 Felony. $2,000–$3,000 = Class 5. $3,000–$4,000 = Class 4. $4,000–$25,000 = Class 3. Over $25,000 = Class 2 Felony with potential for years in prison.
Common Defenses for Theft & Fraud Charges
Every theft and fraud case has unique facts. Our attorneys identify the strongest defense strategies available for your situation:
Lack of Intent
Theft and fraud charges require proof that you acted knowingly and intentionally. If intent cannot be established, the charges may be dismissed.
Mistaken Identity
Fraud and theft cases often rely on surveillance footage, witness testimony, or digital records that may point to the wrong person.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. We challenge weak or incomplete evidence at every turn.
Unknowing Involvement
Many people are unwittingly drawn into fraud schemes by others. If you did not knowingly participate, you may have a strong defense.
Entrapment
If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed, entrapment may be a valid defense.
Constitutional Violations
Unlawful searches, seizures, or Miranda violations can result in evidence being suppressed or charges being dropped entirely.
Why Choose Oliverson Law DUI & Criminal Defense
When it comes to your defense, experience isn’t optional — it’s essential. At Oliverson Law, you get a full legal team that’s been on every side of the courtroom.
30+ Years of Collective Experience
Over the length of their careers, the attorneys at Oliverson Law have helped thousands of people successfully fight their criminal charges.
Former Judge & Prosecutors
As former prosecutors, police officers, and judges, our attorneys have experience on all sides of the law. This insight allows them to better defend your case.
24/7 Availability
Because arrests don’t wait for business hours. All clients get our personal cell phone numbers — reach us by text or call day or night.
Team Approach to Your Case
You get access to multiple experienced attorneys who work together to achieve the best possible result for you.
What Our Clients Say
FAQs About Theft & Fraud Charges in Arizona
Theft involves the physical taking of property without the owner’s consent, while fraud involves deception — using false pretenses, schemes, or misrepresentations to obtain money or property. Both carry serious penalties depending on the value involved and prior criminal history.
Yes. Charges can be reduced or dismissed based on insufficient evidence, constitutional violations, lack of intent, or through skilled negotiation by your defense attorney. Many theft cases are resolved through plea agreements that avoid felony convictions.
Yes. A theft or fraud conviction creates a criminal record that appears on background checks. This can impact employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing applications, and financial credibility. Fighting the charges aggressively is critical to protecting your future.
Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without an attorney present. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Early intervention can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case — including the possibility of preventing charges from being filed.
Serving Clients Across Arizona
Facing Theft or Fraud Charges?
We fight for your case as if it were our own — because your freedom deserves nothing less. Former judge, prosecutor, and police officer on your side.