Petty Theft

If you’ve been charged with petty theft in Taney, Stone, or Christian County, Missouri, your future may feel uncertain. A petty theft charge, while seemingly minor compared to more serious offenses, can have lasting consequences on your life, including fines, probation, and even jail time. Moreover, a conviction can tarnish your reputation and make it more difficult to secure employment, housing, or loans. Fortunately, Scrivner Law Firm, led by former prosecutor Dayrell Scrivner, is here to provide an aggressive and effective defense tailored to your situation.

Understanding Petty Theft in Missouri

Under Missouri law, petty theft generally refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at less than $750 without the owner’s consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Petty theft charges may arise from situations involving shoplifting, taking items from a neighbor or acquaintance, or any other act where property is taken without permission.

In Missouri, petty theft is typically classified as a misdemeanor. However, the exact charge—and potential penalties—can vary based on factors such as the value of the stolen property, prior convictions, and the circumstances surrounding the alleged offense. For example:

• Class D Misdemeanor: Theft of property valued at less than $150 and no prior theft-related convictions.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Theft of property valued between $150 and $750, or any theft involving prior convictions.

The consequences for these charges can include steep fines, community service, restitution payments, and even jail time of up to one year for Class A misdemeanors. These penalties underscore the importance of having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side.

Why Choose Scrivner Law Firm?

When facing a charge, having a skilled Taney County petty theft defense attorney with an in-depth understanding of both prosecution and defense strategies can make all the difference. Dayrell Scrivner’s unique background as a former prosecutor provides a significant advantage. He understands how prosecutors build their cases and knows how to identify weaknesses in their arguments. Here are just a few reasons why Scrivner Law Firm should be your first choice:

1. Proven Experience: With years of experience handling criminal cases in Taney, Stone, and Christian Counties, Dayrell Scrivner knows the local courts, judges, and prosecutors. This familiarity allows him to craft strategies that are specific to the unique dynamics of each jurisdiction.
2. Personalized Defense Strategies: At Scrivner Law Firm, no two cases are treated the same. Dayrell Scrivner takes the time to understand the specifics of your case, your background, and your goals to create a tailored defense strategy that works for you.
3. Aggressive Advocacy: Whether through negotiations, motions to dismiss, or taking your case to trial, Scrivner Law Firm is committed to fighting for the best possible outcome in your case.
4. Compassionate Support: Being charged with a crime can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Dayrell Scrivner and his team are here to guide you through every step of the legal process with compassion and understanding, ensuring you feel informed and supported throughout your case.

Common Defenses Against Petty Theft Charges

A strong defense can mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or reduction of charges. Depending on the circumstances of your case, Scrivner Law Firm may employ one or more of the following defenses:

• Lack of Intent: One of the key elements of a theft charge is the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. If this intent cannot be proven, the prosecution’s case may fail.
• Mistaken Identity: In some cases, individuals are wrongly accused of theft due to misunderstandings, misidentifications, or errors in the investigation.
• Claim of Ownership: If you believed the property was yours or that you had a right to take it, this could serve as a valid defense.
• Coercion or Duress: If you were forced to commit theft under threat of harm, this may serve as a defense to the charges.
• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. Dayrell Scrivner will thoroughly examine the evidence against you to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Serving Taney, Stone, and Christian Counties

Scrivner Law Firm proudly serves clients in Taney, Stone, and Christian Counties, including communities such as Branson, Forsyth, Kimberling City, and Ozark. Our deep knowledge of the local legal landscape ensures that you receive representation that is both effective and efficient.

Each county has its own set of practices and procedures, and Dayrell Scrivner’s experience as a former prosecutor gives him the insight needed to navigate these nuances. Whether your case is being heard in Taney County Circuit Court, Stone County Circuit Court, or Christian County Circuit Court, you can trust Scrivner Law Firm to provide the dedicated defense you deserve.

What to Do If You’ve Been Charged with Petty Theft

If you’ve been arrested or charged with petty theft, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights. Here are a few steps to take:

1. Remain Silent: Do not discuss your case with law enforcement without an attorney present. Anything you say can be used against you in court.
2. Contact an Attorney: The sooner you contact Scrivner Law Firm, the sooner we can begin building your defense and protecting your rights.
3. Preserve Evidence: If there is any evidence that supports your innocence, such as receipts, witness statements, or surveillance footage, be sure to share it with your attorney.
4. Avoid Discussing Your Case: Refrain from discussing the details of your case with anyone other than your attorney to avoid misunderstandings or misstatements that could harm your defense.

Contact Scrivner Law Firm Today

A petty theft charge does not have to define your future. With the right legal representation, you can fight back against the charges and work toward a brighter tomorrow. Scrivner Law Firm, is here to provide the experienced, compassionate, and aggressive defense you need.

If you or a loved one has been charged with petty theft in Taney, Stone, or Christian County, don’t wait. Contact Scrivner Law Firm today to schedule a consultation. Call us at (417) 699-0074 or fill out our online contact form to get started. Together, we can work to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome in your case.