Clarksville Theft, Robbery and Burglary Defense Lawyers
Tennessee law distinguishes theft and burglary offenses through separate statutes, each carrying serious implications for those accused. As defined under Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-14-103, theft involves the unlawful taking or exercise of control over another person’s property without consent and with intent to permanently deprive the owner. Burglary, per T.C.A. § 39-14-402, occurs when a person unlawfully enters a building, vehicle, or other structure with the intent to commit a theft, assault, or felony. If you’re facing charges in Clarksville or elsewhere in Montgomery County, local prosecutors take an aggressive approach in enforcing these laws, with cases often heard in the Montgomery County General Sessions Court or Circuit Court. Penalties for a theft or burglary conviction are significant and may include prison, probation, substantial fines, and a permanent criminal record. As seasoned theft crime attorneys in Clarksville, our team at Patton | Pittman helps you understand all aspects of local sentencing, plea negotiations, and diversion program requirements.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation with our Clarksville theft crimes attorney to discuss your rights and options in detail. Call (931) 361-4477 today!
Protecting Your Rights and Freedom
Many people who face criminal charges plead guilty because they are embarrassed and want to "make the case go away." Unfortunately, pleading guilty to any misdemeanor or felony charge will result in a permanent criminal record. In a world where background checks are increasingly commonplace, anyone with a criminal record is at a disadvantage.
Theft of less than $500 in money or property is a misdemeanor in Tennessee. Theft of more than $500 is considered a felony. Robbery (theft from another person by force or threat of force) and burglary (breaking into a residence or business with the intention of committing a crime) are felonies regardless of the amount taken.
Defenses in Clarksville Theft Cases
If you have been accused of a property crime, the government will try to build a case based on eyewitness testimony, confessions or statements made by you, and corroborating physical evidence. Our lawyers meticulously examine the evidence against you for weaknesses to attack. As your defense team, we know how to challenge evidence, question the process used by law enforcement in Clarksville, and expose inconsistencies to help strengthen your position.
The physical evidence of the crime may not be present or may have been mishandled by police. Sometimes, surveillance footage does not show a clear picture or supports an alternative version of events. In some theft cases, a valid defense may be that you believed you had a right to the property or that local law enforcement did not have probable cause for arrest.
Personalized Service from an Experienced Legal Team
Attorney Chris Clark brings six years of experience as an assistant district attorney and a wealth of trial experience to your theft or burglary defense case. Our legal team’s experience in Clarksville’s courts and our commitment to keeping clients informed set us apart as a trusted choice for criminal defense.
- Diversion and Expungement: If you qualify, pretrial or judicial diversion can provide a path to resolve your case without a permanent criminal record, sometimes without entering a plea of guilt. We guide eligible clients in Clarksville through the process, helping to restore future opportunities.
Understanding Your Rights After a Burglary Charge
If you are charged with burglary, you retain several important rights under the law. At Patton & Pittman Attorneys, we are dedicated to guiding you through the legal process and ensuring your rights are protected.
- Right to Remain Silent: You are not required to answer questions from law enforcement or prosecutors regarding your charges. Asserting this right helps protect you from making statements that could be misinterpreted or used against you.
- Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to an attorney who will advocate for your defense and help you make informed decisions. The court can appoint a public defender if you are unable to afford private counsel in Clarksville.
- Presumption of Innocence: You are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution—the State of Tennessee must establish your guilt with sufficient and credible evidence.
- Right to a Fair Trial: Your right to a fair and impartial trial involves several key protections:
- Reviewing Evidence: You may examine all evidence and discovery the prosecution intends to use against you.
- Presenting a Defense: You can present witnesses, challenge accusations, and introduce your own evidence.
- Cross-Examination: Challenging the credibility and accuracy of prosecution witnesses is a guaranteed right during trial.
- Impartial Jury or Judge: Trials in Clarksville and Tennessee courts must be conducted without bias.
- Protection Against Self-Incrimination: You cannot be forced to testify against yourself, protecting you from compelled admissions or confessions in court.
In Clarksville, penalties for burglary—even for first offenses—can be severe and include felony convictions with prison time, restitution, and lifelong barriers to employment or housing. The outcome may be influenced by factors such as whether the property was a home or business, if anyone was present, or if force was used. Our experience with cases in Montgomery County Circuit Court enables us to help you anticipate and prepare for each phase of your defense. We inform you about all available defenses and legal strategies, ensuring you make choices that best protect your interests throughout the criminal process.
FAQs
What is the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary?
Theft generally refers to the unlawful taking of someone else's property. Robbery involves taking property from a person through force or intimidation. Burglary is the unlawful entry into a building with the intent to commit a crime inside.
Are there alternatives to pleading guilty for property crimes in Tennessee?
Yes, in some cases, individuals may be eligible for pretrial or judicial diversion, which can allow them to resolve their case without a permanent criminal record, sometimes without pleading guilty.
What factors can influence the outcome of a theft case?
Factors such as the strength of the evidence against you, eyewitness reliability, the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, and your previous criminal history can all influence the outcome of a theft case.
Can I have a theft charge expunged from my record?
In Tennessee, certain charges may be eligible for expungement under specific conditions. It's best to consult with an attorney to determine your eligibility and the process involved.
Contact Our Tennessee Felony Theft Crimes Attorneys
If you’ve been charged with burglary, theft, or a related felony in Clarksville, your rights and future are at stake. At Patton & Pittman Attorneys, our theft lawyers and burglary attorneys in Clarksville are dedicated to defending your freedom and preserving your constitutional rights during every stage of your case. Don’t face these charges alone—let our seasoned legal team fight for your defense in the Clarksville courts.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and work diligently to build a serious defense. Time is critical, so take the first step toward protecting your future.
Call (931) 361-4477 or contact us online to arrange a free initial consultation with our Clarksville theft crimes attorneys.
