Top Adams County Defense Lawyer for Theft Charges
If you are facing theft charges in Adams County, you need a defense lawyer who understands how these cases are charged, prosecuted, and negotiated in the 17th Judicial District. Theft offenses are among the most common criminal charges filed in Adams County, particularly in cities like Thornton, Westminster, Brighton, Commerce City, and Northglenn. While some theft cases involve minor allegations, others carry serious felony penalties that can follow you for life.
At Pav Law, we defend clients against the full range of theft-related offenses, from low-level shoplifting allegations to complex felony burglary and robbery charges. We know the local courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies—and we know how to fight back.
Theft Charges in Adams County: What’s at Stake
Under Colorado law, theft crimes are primarily charged based on the value of the property involved, along with how the alleged offense occurred. Prosecutors in Adams County aggressively pursue theft cases, especially when they believe a crime was planned, repeated, or tied to organized activity.
Common theft-related charges in Adams County include:
- Theft (C.R.S. § 18-4-401)
- Shoplifting
- Burglary
- Robbery
- Motor Vehicle Theft
Penalties range from misdemeanors punishable by fines and jail time to felony convictions carrying years in prison and mandatory restitution. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can permanently damage your employment prospects, housing opportunities, and reputation.
Common Theft Situations We See in Adams County
Many theft cases begin with everyday situations that escalate quickly:
- Retail theft allegations from large stores and shopping centers in Thornton, Westminster, or Brighton
- Disputes between roommates, family members, or former partners over shared property
- Traffic stops that lead to motor vehicle theft accusations
- Allegations of unlawful entry tied to burglary charges
- Robbery claims involving force or intimidation, often based on conflicting witness statements
We find our clients often are shocked to learn how quickly a misunderstanding or accusation turns into a criminal charge.
How Theft Cases Are Prosecuted in the 17th Judicial District
Prosecutors in Adams County rely heavily on:
- Surveillance footage
- Witness statements
- Loss prevention reports
- Police narratives
- Prior criminal history
However, these cases are often far from airtight. Surveillance footage may be unclear, witnesses may be mistaken, and police reports may omit critical context. At Pav Law, we scrutinize every detail.
How Pav Law Defends Theft Charges
Our theft defense strategies are tailored to the facts of each case and may include:
- Challenging intent — theft requires intent to permanently deprive
- Mistaken identity defenses, especially in video-based cases
- Ownership or consent disputes
- Illegal searches or unlawful detentions by loss prevention or police
- Disputing property value to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors
We also push for charge reductions, dismissals, deferred judgments, and alternative sentencing whenever possible—especially for first-time offenders.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Theft in Adams County
Colorado theft laws are unforgiving when it comes to property value thresholds. A small increase in alleged value can turn a misdemeanor into a felony overnight. Our firm regularly challenges inflated valuations and negotiates charges down to avoid lifelong felony consequences.
Why Local Representation Matters
Adams County handles theft cases differently than Denver or Boulder. Local prosecutors have their own charging tendencies, and local judges have specific expectations. Pav Law’s experience in the Adams County courts gives our clients a real advantage.
Talk to an Adams County Theft Defense Lawyer Today
If you are being investigated or have been charged with theft, shoplifting, burglary, robbery, or motor vehicle theft in Adams County, do not wait. Early intervention can make the difference between a dismissal and a conviction.
📞 Call Pav Law today to speak with an experienced Adams County theft defense lawyer.
⚖️ We fight to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.
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