18 Feb The Definition of Theft in Arizona, and Consequences of a Conviction
Theft is taking someone else’s property without their permission. Refusing to pay for services rendered can also be considered a theft. If you are facing criminal charges in Arizona, you need a good lawyer to defend your case. Being convicted of theft can have far-reaching consequences that affect your freedom and your future.
Arizona’s Definition of Theft
Arizona defines theft as described as taking someone’s property without their permission. Property can be defined as physical items, titles to land, and even services. The victim does not need to be present for the theft to occur. And unlike robbery or burglary, theft does not include threats, acts of violence, or entering another person’s home.
There are many different types of theft—things like using someone else’s credit card, refusing to pay for a cake you ordered, or buying an item that you suspect was stolen can all qualify as theft. Even something like keeping a package that was mis-delivered to your address can be construed as theft, if you did not attempt to notify the intended recipient.
Consequences of Theft in Arizona
Both felony and misdemeanor convictions come with heavy fines. Convicts must also pay courts and attorney fees, as well restitution to the victims in many cases. If you are convicted of a misdemeanor, you will either have to serve a jail sentence or be placed on probation. Felony convictions automatically mean serving time in prison.
In Arizona, most theft charges are classified as felonies, and felony conviction can have lifelong effects. For example, convicted felons are no longer allowed to vote, possess a firearm, or hold certain professional licenses. Felons are also disqualified from access to public housing and social services like SNAP.
Incarceration Terms for Theft in Arizona
The value of the property or services stolen determines whether the crime was a misdemeanor or a felony, while the number of previous convictions determines how a judge will allot a sentence.
If the value of the property or services was:
- $25,000 or more—Class 2 felony with a possible 3 to 35 years in prison
- $4,000 to $24,999 —Class 3 felony with a possible 2 to 25 years in prison
- $3,000 to $3,999—Class 4 felony with a possible 1 to 15 years in prison
- $2,000 to $2,999—Class 5 felony with a possible 6 months to over 7 years in prison
- $1,000 to 1,999—Class 6 felony with a possible 3 months to over 5 years in prison
- $999 or less—Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum of 180 days in jail, up to 3 years probation, and fines over $2,000
There are three written exceptions to the rule that the value of the property determines the class:
- The theft of a vehicle engine or transmission, regardless of value, is a class 4 felony.
- The theft of a firearm valued under $1,000 is a class 6 felony.
- The theft of an animal that was taken with the intent for fighting is a class 6 felony.
Charged with Theft in Maricopa County? Contact Todd Coolidge Law Firm
If you have been charged with a crime in Maricopa County, you need a certified criminal defense attorney on your side. They will help you navigate the complicated judicial system, build a strong defense, and make sure your rights do not get trampled.
Not only does Todd Coolidge have over 25 years of experience in the criminal justice system, he also believes that every case is important and deserving of attention. This means your case will never be foisted off to an inexperienced intern or forgotten in a pile on the edge of a desk. Contact us today for a consultation—it could change the outcome of your case.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (2/18/25). Photo by Michael Dziedzic on Unsplash