Theft Charges

Georgia Theft Charges Defense

Being accused of theft can damage your reputation, threaten your freedom, and put your future at risk—even if the value of the property is small or you believe it was a misunderstanding. Georgia prosecutors take theft crimes seriously, and many are charged as felonies depending on the value of the property or the circumstances of the case.

At Morrison & Hughes, we understand how complex and personal these charges can be. Whether you’re facing accusations of shoplifting, fraud, or stolen property, we build smart, aggressive defenses to protect your record and keep you out of jail.

A theft charge doesn’t have to define your future. Contact us online or call 404-LAW-TEAM today!

 

Georgia Theft Charges Defense

Being accused of theft can damage your reputation, threaten your freedom, and put your future at risk—even if the value of the property is small or you believe it was a misunderstanding. Georgia prosecutors take theft crimes seriously, and many are charged as felonies depending on the value of the property or the circumstances of the case.

At Morrison & Hughes, we understand how complex and personal these charges can be. Whether you’re facing accusations of shoplifting, fraud, or stolen property, we build smart, aggressive defenses to protect your record and keep you out of jail.

A theft charge doesn’t have to define your future. Contact us online or call 404-LAW-TEAM today!

Kait Hayden

Kait Hayden

Criminal Defense Partner

Meet Kait Hayden

Morrison & Hughes is proud to offer top-tier criminal defense at our Fayetteville location, led by our Criminal Defense Partner Kait Hayden. With a Juris Doctor from Georgia State University College of Law, Kait has devoted her career to defending the accused and fighting for justice. Her passion for criminal defense has driven her to work with organizations like the Georgia Capital Defenders, Georgia Innocence Project, and Metro Conflict Defenders, gaining invaluable experience in indigent defense.

As a former public defender in Henry and Clayton counties, Kait has handled a wide range of felony cases, from drug possession to serious charges like aggravated child molestation and murder. Her extensive trial experience and deep commitment to protecting her clients’ rights make her a powerful advocate for those facing criminal charges.

If you or a loved one need experienced, dedicated legal defense, Morrison & Hughes is here to fight for you. Now offering criminal defense services in Fayetteville—because your future deserves a strong defense.

Understanding Theft Charges in Georgia

Theft isn’t a single crime under Georgia law—it’s a broad category that includes many different types of conduct. Some involve physical taking, while others are based on deception, misuse, or even mistaken identity.

Common theft-related charges include:

  • Theft by Taking (physically taking someone else’s property)
  • Theft by Shoplifting
  • Theft by Conversion (misusing money or property entrusted to you)
  • Theft by Deception (tricking someone into giving up their property)
  • Receiving Stolen Property
  • Auto Theft
  • Theft of Services
  • Theft by Extortion

The value of the property, whether weapons or vehicles were involved, and your criminal history can all affect whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony.

Penalties for Theft in Georgia

Theft crimes are punished based on the value and type of property allegedly stolen—and penalties can be severe.

Potential consequences include:

  • Misdemeanor or felony conviction
  • Up to 20 years in prison for felony theft
  • Fines and restitution to the victim
  • Probation with strict conditions
  • Permanent criminal record
  • Loss of employment or professional licenses
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens

Even a first-time theft conviction can have long-term effects on your reputation and future opportunities.

Building Your Defense: What We Do

At Morrison & Hughes, we don’t jump to plea deals. We investigate thoroughly, question assumptions, and push back against weak or exaggerated claims.

Possible defenses include:

  • Mistaken identity
  • Lack of intent to steal
  • Ownership or right to the property
  • False accusations or set-ups
  • Lack of evidence or unreliable witnesses
  • Entrapment or illegal police tactics

We fight to reduce the charges, seek diversion when appropriate, and aim for dismissal when the facts support it.

Who We Represent

We defend people from all walks of life facing a wide range of theft charges, including:

  • First-time offenders
  • Juveniles and young adults
  • Employees accused of workplace theft
  • Shoplifting or retail theft cases
  • Individuals facing felony theft due to high-value items

Whether you made a mistake or are being falsely accused, we’ll treat your case with urgency, discretion, and respect.

Why Choose Morrison & Hughes

  • Deep knowledge of Georgia’s theft laws
  • Track record of charge reductions, dismissals, and acquittals
  • Personalized defense strategies based on your goals
  • Fierce advocacy in court and in negotiations
  • Responsive communication throughout your case
  • Free, confidential case reviews

We fight to protect your rights and rebuild your future.

Contact Us Today

Don’t face a theft charge alone. The sooner you contact us, the more options we can pursue to protect your freedom and your record. Contact us online or call 404-LAW-TEAM today to schedule your free, confidential consultation.

When You Have Been Accused of a Crime, We Are Here To Help

We offer free initial consultations, so call 404-LAW-TEAM or contact us online today.

Criminal Defense Cases We Handle

DUI:

Driving under the Influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. Aggravated or Enhanced DUI: DUI with Child Passenger, DUI Causing Injury or Death, Multiple DUI Offenses, and Felony DUI.

Drug Possession

Possession with Intent to Distribute, Trafficking, Possession of Drug Related Objects, etc.

Sexual Offenses:

Sexual Battery, Failure to Register, Rape, Statutory Rape, Child Molestation, Enticing a Minor for Indecent Purposes,  etc.

Probation Violations

Felony or Misdemeanor Probation, New Criminal Charges, Failure to Pay Fine or Restitution, Failure to Report or to Complete Court-ordered Restrictions, Services or Classes, Positive Drug Screens, etc.

Violent Crimes

Aggravated Assault, Armed Robbery, Battery, Obstruction, Cruelty to Children, Elder Abuse, Kidnapping, False Imprisonment, etc.

Battery & Aggravated Assault

Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Assault, Domestic or Family Violence, Simple Battery, Assault on a Police Officer, etc.

Gun & Weapon Offenses

Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Crime, Unlawful Possession by a Convicted Felon or in a Restricted Area, Theft by Receiving a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Prohibited Weapons, etc.

Homicide:

Self-Defense, Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Voluntary or Involuntary Manslaughter, etc.

Burglary & Destruction of Property

Burglary, Home Invasion, Arson, Trespass and Criminal Damage to Property, etc.

Serious Driving Offenses:

Fleeing and attempting to elude, Reckless Driving, DUI, Serious Injury by Vehicle, Vehicular Homicide, etc.

Theft:

Shoplifting, Robbery, Theft by Conversion, Theft by Receiving, Theft of Lost or Mislaid Property, and more.

Forgery and Fraud:

Financial Transaction Card Theft or Fraud, Forgery, Alteration of Identifying Information from Property, etc.

Tell Us About Your Case

Answer just a few easy questions, and we’ll be able to help tell if you have a case! Please note that this is not legal advice, and we aren’t your attorney yet. It’s just a quick way to get some basic information. We strongly recommend that you contact us for a free consultation and speak to a live attorney to figure out what your case is worth.

How We Can Help You

Dedicated to Those Injured by Negligence & Defending the Accused

when you have Accused of a Crime, we won't back down

It can feel like the system is designed for you to lose- but with attorneys who don't back down on your side, you can fight- and win.