Spokane, Washington Property Crimes Attorneys

Theft, burglary, robbery, and other property crimes are serious accusations that carry with them sentences that include fines and time in jail. If you have been accused of a property crime in Spokane, Washington, it is wise to seek the experienced legal advice and representation of a criminal defense lawyer such as those at Cooney Law Offices, P.S.

Theft

According to Washington law 9A.56.020, you can be charged with theft if you “wrongfully obtain or exert unauthorized control over the property or services of another or the value thereof, with intent to deprive him or her of such property or services.” Those charged with theft may face charges in the first, second, or third degree.

1st Degree
If a person takes property or services that exceed $5,000 excluding a firearm; property of any value other than a firearm or vehicle; or a search and rescue dog that is on duty (RCW 9A. 56.030), they may be charged with a class B felony first degree theft.

2nd Degree
An individual may be charged with second degree theft if he/she allegedly stole property or services valued between $750-$5000 other than a firearm or motor vehicle; a public record, writing, or instrument; or an access device (RCW 9A.56.040). If convicted, the accused may face a sentence for a class C felony.

3rd Degree
Theft in the third degree is sought when a person takes property that either does not exceed $750 in value or includes ten or more merchandise or beverage crates in combination or separately (RCW 9A.56.050). This is considered a gross misdemeanor.

Burglary

Another very serious property crime in the state of Washington is burglary. Like theft, it too is divided into three separate categories with individual sentencing: first degree, residential, and second degree.

1st Degree
If an individual enters a building with the intent to commit a crime against another person or property and is armed with a deadly weapon or assaults someone, they may face first degree burglary charges (RCW 9A.52.020). In Washington, this is a class A felony.

Residential Burglary
When a person unlawfully enters or remains in a dwelling with the intent to commit a crime against a person or property within the dwelling, they may face residential burglary charges (RCW 9A.52.025). If convicted, the accused may face sentencing equivalent to a class B felony.

2nd Degree
Second degree burglary is similar to residential with the exception that the accused will have unlawfully entered and remained in a building that is not a residence or vehicle (RCW 9A.52.030). It is also a class B felony.

Contact Our Experienced Spokane Property Crimes Attorneys

If you are facing charges of a property crime, contact Cooney Law Offices, P.S. to discuss your case and strategize your defense. With over 25 years of criminal defense experience, our Washington attorneys are dedicated to defending your freedom and fighting for your innocence. We are fully prepared to defend you in court and will work tirelessly to have your case dismissed or charges reduced. Contact us today for the legal advice and representation you need for your criminal defense case.

Call 509-326-2613 today to discuss your theft,
burglary, or other property crime case
with our skilled attorneys!