Arizona Theft & Grand Theft Lawyers
Charged with theft or grand theft in Arizona? Our former judge, prosecutor, and police officer fight to protect your rights, your record, and your future.
Arizona Theft — A.R.S. §13-1802
Under A.R.S. §13-1802, theft occurs when a person knowingly controls another person’s property without lawful authority, with the intent to deprive them of it. This includes taking, using, transferring, concealing, or obtaining property through deception or threat.
Arizona classifies theft based on the value of the property taken. What may seem like a minor offense can quickly escalate to a felony with serious prison time. At Oliverson Law, we fight to reduce or dismiss theft charges — protecting your record, your employment, and your future.
Theft Penalties by Value in Arizona
Arizona theft penalties are directly tied to the value of property taken:
Under $1,000 — Class 1 Misdemeanor
Up to 6 months in jail, $2,500 in fines, and up to 3 years probation. Creates a criminal record that appears on background checks.
$1,000–$2,000 — Class 6 Felony
Up to 2 years in prison for a first offense. The lowest class of felony, but still carries life-altering consequences including loss of civil rights.
$2,000–$3,000 — Class 5 Felony
Up to 2.5 years in prison. Prior felony convictions can significantly increase the sentencing range.
$3,000–$4,000 — Class 4 Felony
Up to 3.75 years in prison. Enhanced penalties apply with prior convictions.
$4,000–$25,000 — Class 3 Felony
Up to 8.75 years in prison. At this level, prosecutors aggressively pursue prison sentences.
$25,000+ — Class 2 Felony
Up to 12.5 years in prison for a first offense. Among the most serious non-violent felonies in Arizona. With prior felonies, sentences can reach 35 years.
How a Theft Conviction Impacts Your Life
A theft conviction — whether misdemeanor or felony — creates consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom:
Employment
Theft convictions appear on background checks and are considered “crimes of moral turpitude.” Many employers automatically disqualify candidates with theft records, especially in finance, healthcare, retail, and government.
Housing
Landlords and property management companies routinely run criminal background checks. A theft conviction can make it difficult to rent an apartment or qualify for certain housing programs.
Professional Licensing
Many professional licenses — including those for real estate, nursing, law, accounting, and education — can be denied or revoked based on a theft conviction.
Immigration Consequences
Theft offenses are considered crimes of moral turpitude under immigration law, which can lead to deportation, denial of visa applications, or loss of permanent residency status.
Why Choose Oliverson Law for Theft 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.
FAQs About Theft Charges in Arizona
Under A.R.S. §13-1802, theft is knowingly controlling another person’s property without lawful authority with the intent to deprive them of it. This includes physically taking property, obtaining it through deception, using lost or mislaid property without making reasonable efforts to find the owner, and controlling property you know to be stolen.
Theft is classified based on the value of property taken. Under $1,000 is a Class 1 Misdemeanor. $1,000–$2,000 is a Class 6 Felony. $2,000–$3,000 is Class 5. $3,000–$4,000 is Class 4. $4,000–$25,000 is Class 3. Over $25,000 is a Class 2 Felony — the most serious classification, carrying up to 12.5 years in prison for a first offense.
Yes. Theft charges can be dismissed or reduced based on lack of intent, insufficient evidence, mistaken identity, constitutional violations, or through plea negotiations. First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs. Restitution agreements can also play a role in securing favorable outcomes. An experienced defense attorney will evaluate every option available.
Facing Theft 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.