Lawyer for Theft By Deception Charges in Pittsburgh, PA

Being charged with theft by deception in Pittsburgh or anywhere in Pennsylvania can have serious consequences. These charges can result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can impact your employment and future opportunities. At Worgul, Sarna & Ness, our experienced criminal defense attorneys fight aggressively to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and help reduce or dismiss your charges.

What is Theft by Deception in Pennsylvania?

Theft by deception is a type of theft crime when someone intentionally obtains or withholds someone else’s property by deceiving them. In Pennsylvania, someone can be guilty of theft by deception if he or she intentionally does any of the following:

• Create or reinforce a false impression, including impressions about a law, value, intention or some other state of mind.
• Keep someone else from acquiring the information that would affect their judgment about a transaction.
• Fails to correct a false impression that they previously created or or that they know is influencing someone that with whom they have a fiduciary or confidential relationship.

The exception to this is that if you have made false statements about matters that have no financial significance or if you make exaggerated statements that would not deceive ordinary people in the group you are speaking to. This would not be theft by deception.

Theft by Deception Penalties in Pennsylvania

Under Pennsylvania law, the seriousness of the grading for theft is based on the value of the property taken.

In most cases, if the property’s value is:

• More than $2000 — felony of the third degree, punished with up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000
• $2,000 to $200 — misdemeanor of the first degree, punished with up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000
• $200 to $50 — misdemeanor of the second degree, punished with up to two years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
• Less than $50 — misdemeanor of the third degree, punished with up to one year in prison and a fine of up to $2,500

How a Theft by Deception Charge Affects Your Job Prospects

A theft conviction can appear on background checks, which may make potential employers hesitant to hire you. Businesses are cautious about hiring someone with a history of theft-related offenses, as it could put their property or reputation at risk. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can help mitigate the long-term impact on your career.

What to Do If You’re Charged With Theft by Deception in Pittsburgh

If you have been charged with theft by deception, your first step should be to hire a lawyer immediately. He or she will evaluate the evidence against you and build a defense. You may have a defense if you unknowingly or unintentionally deceived someone, but this depends on the specific circumstances of your case.

A criminal defense attorney can help protect your rights and make sure that your rights are protected. In many instances, we can achieve a reduction in your charges and, in some cases, a complete dismissal.

FAQs About Theft by Deception in Pennsylvania

Can My Theft by Deception Charges be Reduced?

Yes. A skilled criminal defense attorney can evaluate your case, challenge the evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative outcomes. Success depends on the details of your case.

Will a Conviction for Theft by Deception Appear on My Background Check?

Almost always. Most convictions are accessible to employers, landlords, and licensing agencies. Defense strategies may help minimize long-term consequences.

What Is the Difference Between Theft by Deception and Other Theft Charges?

Theft by deception involves intentional misrepresentation or misleading conduct, whereas other theft charges may involve taking property without deception, such as shoplifting or embezzlement.

Do I Need a Lawyer Immediately After Being Charged?

Absolutely. Consulting with an attorney before speaking with law enforcement or prosecutors can help protect your rights, prevent self-incrimination, and ensure your defense is adequately prepared.

Can I Avoid Jail Time for Theft by Deception?

In some cases, yes. Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may negotiate reduced charges, probation, or diversion programs instead of incarceration.