Montrose Burglary & Theft Lawyer

Being charged with theft or burglary can turn your entire life upside down. If you are facing these charges, you need a Montrose Burglary & Theft Lawyer who understands the law and can protect your future. At The Martin Law Firm, we focus on building strong defense strategies and guiding you through every step of the process. Call us today at (970) 730-4354 for a free consultation.

Understanding Theft Charges in Colorado

Theft involves knowingly taking or exercising control over something that belongs to someone else without permission. It can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of the property involved. Common examples of theft include:

• Shoplifting from a store
• Borrowing property with no intention of returning it
• Makinga fraudulent return for cash or store credit
• Altering price tags or packaging to pay less for an item
• Taking money or property through deception

Colorado’s laws divide theft into different levels based on the amount taken. Theft between $300 and $999 is considered a class 2 misdemeanor and can result in up to 120 days in jail and fines up to $750. When the value is between $1,000 and $1,999, it becomes a class 1 misdemeanor with up to 364 days in jail and fines up to $1,000. If the stolen amount is $2,000 or more, the charge becomes a felony and penalties can include one to 24 years in prison and fines up to $1,000,000.

Burglary Charges and Their Definition

Burglary means unlawfully entering or remaining in a building, home, or other structure with the intent to commit a crime. The intended crime does not have to be theft—it could be any illegal act. Burglary is divided into three degrees:

• First-Degree Burglary: The most serious charge, often involving threats, assault, or a deadly weapon. Punishable by 4 to 24 years in prison and fines between $3,000 and $1,000,000.
• Second-Degree Burglary: Entering a building or home with intent to commit a crime. Can carry up to 12 years in prison and significant fines.
• Third-Degree Burglary: Breaking into equipment, safes, vending machines, or ATMs. Can result in up to 6 years in prison and fines of up to $500,000.

Even being in possession of burglary tools can lead to charges. This is a class 5 felony and can result in up to 3 years in prison and fines up to$100,000.

Consequences of a Conviction

Being convicted of theft or burglary can affect more than just your criminal record. The penalties can follow you for years and impact many parts of your life.

• Employment: Many employers hesitate to hire someone with a felony conviction.
• Housing: A conviction can make it harder to rent an apartment or qualify for a mortgage.
• Child Custody: If you are involved in family court, a criminal record can impact visitation and custody agreements.
• Financial Impact: Restitution payments, court fines, and legal fees can create long-term financial strain.

Defending Against Theft and Burglary Charges

Our legal team works to find the best outcome for every client. Possible defense strategies may include:

• Showing that you had permission to take or use the property
• Proving there was no intent to commit a crime
• Demonstrating that your Constitutional rightswere violated
• Challenging unlawful searches or lack of probable cause
• Identifying mistakes in witness testimony or evidence

In some cases, we can negotiate plea deals that reduce charges or penalties. When appropriate, we also work to have records sealed or expunged to protect your future.

Speak With Our Legal Team Today

The sooner you involve an attorney, the stronger your defense can be. We are ready to listen to your side of the story and start building a plan to protect your rights. Call The Martin Law Firm at (970) 730-4354 to schedule your free consultation today.