A full service law firm with focused practice groups in family law, adoption, probate,
traffic/criminal defense and civil litigation.
Theft, Burglary, and Receiving Stolen Property
Theft Defense Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
Theft-related charges can carry serious consequences, especially when they involve allegations of breaking and entering, deception, or receiving stolen goods. A conviction can impact your employment, reputation, and long-term future. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we advocate and fight for clients across Northeast Ohio facing theft, burglary, or property-related offenses.
We understand that every case has a backstory. Whether you're facing a misunderstanding, a first-time mistake, or a serious accusation, our job is to step in early, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process.
Understanding Theft and Property Offenses in Ohio
Ohio law covers a wide range of offenses under the category of theft and property crimes. The penalties vary depending on the value of the property, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and any prior convictions.
Theft charges involve knowingly taking someone else’s property without consent. This can range from petty theft to grand theft and may involve shoplifting, fraud, or financial misconduct.
Burglary refers to entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside, often theft. It is a felony and may be enhanced if the structure was occupied or force was used.
Receiving stolen property means knowingly accepting, possessing, or selling property that was taken unlawfully by someone else. Even if you did not commit the theft, you can still face charges if prosecutors believe you knew or should have known the items were stolen.
In Ohio, these offenses are handled in either municipal court (for misdemeanors) or the Court of Common Pleas (for felonies). A conviction can lead to jail or prison, fines, restitution, and a permanent record. We help clients understand the risks, build a defense, and pursue resolutions that protect their future.
How We Can
Help at Your First Consultation
If you are being investigated or have been charged with a theft-related offense, we are here to listen and act quickly. At your first consultation:
- We will review the specific charges and explain what they mean under Ohio law
- We will walk through the possible penalties and how they apply to your case
- We will explain the court process and how to prepare for each step
- We will go over your side of the story and clarify key facts and timelines
- We will explain how we advocate for you both inside and outside the courtroom
- And we assure you everything you share with us is 100 percent confidential
We will fight to protect your record, your rights, and your future from the very beginning.
Traffic and Criminal
Experienced Lawyers in Family Law, Divorce, Adoption, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal, Traffic, Bankruptcy, Business, Personal Injury, Civil and Education Law.
What We Can Do for You
A theft or property crime charge can affect your reputation, record, and future opportunities. We focus on building a strong defense to reduce penalties, protect your rights, and guide you through each step of the process. Our goal is to resolve the case effectively and help you move forward with as little long-term impact as possible.
Review Police Reports and Charging Documents
We review police reports, video, and witness statements to assess the alleged offense, property value, and any legal inconsistencies. We search for errors, flawed identifications, or missing facts that could support dismissal or reduction.
File Motions to Suppress Evidence or Dismiss Charges
We file motions to exclude unlawful searches, unreliable witness accounts, or procedural violations. If law enforcement mishandled evidence or violated rights, we ask the court to suppress it or dismiss the charges against you.
Negotiate With Prosecutors for Reduction or Diversion
We work to reduce theft charges to lesser offenses or pursue diversion programs that avoid conviction. These options protect your future, limit penalties, and offer resolution without the lasting harm of a criminal record.
Represent You at Hearings, Trial, and Sentencing
We appear at arraignment, pretrial, and trial, manage all scheduling, and advocate for your rights at every step. Whether seeking dismissal, litigating facts, or minimizing penalties, we defend your position with care and clarity.
Explore Record Sealing or Expungement
After resolution, we assess your eligibility to seal or expunge the record. We file the correct petitions and attend court hearings so your theft charge does not interfere with employment, housing, or other opportunities in the future.
When to Call a Theft or Burglary Defense Attorney
If you have been charged with theft, questioned by police, or received a court summons, do not wait to seek legal help. These cases can escalate quickly, and early action gives your defense team more tools to challenge the evidence and protect your rights. The sooner we are involved, the stronger your position may be.
Our attorneys are prepared to evaluate your situation, offer clear guidance, and stand by you through every step of the defense process.
Tell Us About You And Your Situation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between theft and burglary?
Theft is taking property. Burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure to commit a crime, often theft.
Can I be charged if I didn’t know the item was stolen?
Yes. In some cases, we can negotiate for a reduction depending on the charge, evidence, and criminal history.
Will I go to jail for receiving stolen property?
No. Many are resolved through pretrial motions, dismissals, or negotiated pleas. We help you choose the best strategy for your case.
What happens if the item is returned?
It depends on the charge and your criminal history. Some felonies carry mandatory prison terms, but others may qualify for probation, diversion, or judicial release.
Can this type of charge be sealed or expunged?
Some lower-level felonies are eligible for sealing after a waiting period. We evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the process.
