Theft Attorney in St. Paul

Facing Theft Or Larceny Charges In The St. Paul Area? Contact Us for Strong Legal Support

A theft accusation can feel overwhelming. One moment you are at work, in a store, or at home, and the next you are dealing with police, court dates, and the possibility of a criminal record. If you are under investigation or have been charged with a theft offense, you need clear information and a steady guide, not judgment.

At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we defend people facing theft and larceny allegations across this region. Our attorneys draw on more than 70 years of combined legal experience to help clients understand the charges against them and to develop strategies that fit their specific situation. We know how much is at stake for your reputation, your job, and your future, and we work to protect each of those as we move through the criminal process.

Our team has spent decades working in Minnesota courts, including those that handle theft cases arising from incidents in and around St. Paul. We are familiar with how these cases are investigated and prosecuted, and we use that knowledge to help clients make informed decisions at every step.

Do not let a theft charge derail your future. Contact Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC today for a confidential consultation with an experienced theft attorney in St. Paul. Call (651) 413-9004 or contact us online to get started.

Understanding Theft Crime Classifications in Minnesota

Theft in Minnesota is governed by Minnesota Statute § 609.52, which defines the offense as the intentional taking, using, transferring, concealing, or retaining possession of someone else's property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. Larceny is an older term that many people still use to describe these types of property crimes.

As your St. Paul theft lawyer, we focus on how the value of the property and the circumstances of the alleged act dictate the severity of the charge.

• Misdemeanor Theft (Petty Theft): This applies when the value of the property or services stolen is $500 or less. While it is the lowest level of theft, it still carries significant weight on a permanent record.
• Gross Misdemeanor Theft: If the stolen property is valued between $500 and $1,000, the charge is elevated. The state may also upgrade a misdemeanor to a gross misdemeanor if the defendant has certain prior theft convictions within the last five years.
• Felony Theft: This is the most serious classification. In Minnesota, the felony threshold is typically reached when the property value exceeds $1,000. However, certain items—such as firearms, motor vehicles, or public records—can lead to felony charges regardless of their monetary value.

The law also encompasses various specific acts under the "theft" umbrella, including theft by swindle (defrauding someone through a trick or device), theft by false representation, and receiving stolen property. Each of these requires a nuanced defense strategy that addresses the specific intent and technical requirements of the statute.

It is also common for other factors, such as prior criminal history or the presence of alleged accomplices, to affect how charges are filed and handled. When a larceny attorney evaluates a case, they look at each of these issues in light of Minnesota law and local charging practices. 

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Theft Convictions in Minnesota

The penalties for a theft conviction in St. Paul are tiered based on the value of the property and the nature of the crime. Because we have over 50 years of collective experience, we understand that the social consequences often outweigh the court-imposed fines.

• Misdemeanor: Up to 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.
• Gross Misdemeanor: Up to one year (364 days) in jail and/or a $3,000 fine.
• Felony (5-Year): For values between $1,000 and $5,000, penalties include up to 5 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
• Felony (10-Year): For values over $5,000 (or certain items like trade secrets), penalties include up to 10 years in prison and/or a $20,000 fine.
• Felony (20-Year): For values over $35,000, or cases involving firearms or vulnerable adults, penalties can reach 20 years in prison and/or a $100,000 fine.
• Civil Liability: Under Minnesota law, retailers can sue shoplifters for the value of the merchandise plus a civil penalty (punitive damages) up to $100 or 100% of the value, whichever is greater.
• The "Theft Label": A conviction for theft is considered a "crime of dishonesty." This makes it incredibly difficult to pass background checks for jobs in finance, retail, healthcare, or any position involving the handling of money or sensitive information.

Our Comprehensive Approach to Theft Defense

Defending against a theft or larceny charge begins with a careful review of the facts and the evidence the state relies on. This includes analyzing police reports, witness statements, security footage, and financial records. The goal is to identify weaknesses, such as misidentification, improper valuation, misunderstandings, or potential constitutional issues that may limit how evidence can be used.

After evaluating the case, the focus shifts to developing a strategy that fits the client’s situation and goals. Options may include challenging the charges, seeking to exclude evidence, or negotiating for reduced charges. Throughout the process, clear communication is prioritized so clients understand each step, their choices, and how decisions may affect their future.

At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we don’t just process cases; we defend people. Our comprehensive approach includes:

• Independent Investigation: We don't rely solely on the police report. We conduct our own investigation to find the witnesses and evidence the authorities ignored.
• Challenging Evidence Legality: If loss prevention officers or police violated your privacy rights, we fight to have that evidence thrown out of court.
• Focus on Restitution: In many cases, early and proactive steps toward restitution (paying back the value of the loss) can lead to significantly reduced charges or even a dismissal.
• Protecting the Record: We prioritize "diversion" programs and other alternative sentencing options that allow you to maintain a clean criminal record.

Why Choose Our Firm For Theft & Larceny Charges

When you are accused of stealing, you are not only facing possible jail time or fines. You are also facing a serious threat to how employers, landlords, and licensing boards see you. You need a theft crime attorney in St. Paul for both legal skill and practical guidance. Our firm has built that kind of practice over many decades.

Our attorneys have more than 70 years of combined experience in criminal defense. Over that time, we have developed a deep understanding of how the Minnesota and Wisconsin legal systems operate in real life, from investigative practices to courtroom procedures.

We do not treat any theft case as routine. We take the time to examine the details of each situation, including the evidence, the client’s background, and the context of the accusation. Our goal is to build a tailored defense, whether that involves challenging how property was valued, raising questions about identification, or exploring alternatives that may limit the long-term impact on your record.

As your St. Paul theft lawyer, our firm will fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed. Reach out to Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC at (651) 413-9004 or contact us online for immediate assistance.