One of the most common crimes in Pennsylvania is explained by the Pennsylvania Criminal Code Chapter 18 Section 3701, which defines robbery as a theft along with involving a kind of assault, force, or intimidation. Robbery generally involves taking from another person or an entity, such as a financial institution.

And, the robbery of a motor vehicle, also known as carjacking, has been specifically covered in an additional statute: Pennsylvania Criminal Code Chapter 18 Section 3702. Carjacking is a first-degree felony if the vehicle is stolen in the presence of either the owner or someone else who is in legal possession of it. This charge is subject to sentencing enhancement.

Robbery can be categorized into first, second, and third degree felonies based on certain circumstances. It can be connected with theft if it happens while the theft is occurring or while the perpetrator is fleeing the scene.

Burglary has been defined under the Pennsylvania Criminal Code Chapter 18 Section 3502 as something that particularly entails entering an occupied building (or part of a building) or any kind of property “with the intent to commit a crime therein.” According to the state law, defendants charged with this offense have the right to raise 3 defenses: 1) the perpetrator had permission to enter the property, 2) the property was abandoned, and/or 3) the property is open to the public.

Theft is considered to be a, by a wide margin, the most common among these kinds of criminal offenses. Therefore, it is sometimes also referred to as larceny. For example, the terms “grand larceny or grand theft” or “petit larceny or petty theft” are commonly heard terms.

Theft, as opposed to burglary or robbery, which is quite specific in nature, is a broader category of criminal charges encompassing a number of offenses. Some examples of such common offenses include shoplifting while there are others too, which are quite obscure and virtually not known.

Previously, illegal use of computers was considered to be under the offense category of theft. However, this relevant statute was repealed in 2002.

Theft might include taking possession of a tangible item like a wallet or a car, a utility or service such as electricity or the internet, or a valuable piece of information such as a person’s identity or the trade secrets of a business organization that does not belong to you.

According to the nature of the alleged charges involved, theft grading will run the gamut from the third-degree offense to a first-degree felony. Therefore, any defendant who is charged with theft can be subjected to a period of imprisonment varying between 1 to 20 years along with monetary penalties, which also range from $2,000 to $25,000. This will be determined by the sort of and the dollar value of the property, along with several other relevant factors. For example, theft will automatically be categorized under a second-degree felony if the item which is stolen is a firearm or if the overall value of the commodity which is stolen ranges from $100,000 up to an amount of $500,000.

Therefore, if you or someone you know has been charged with a theft offense in Pittsburgh or in and around elsewhere in Pennsylvania, you should get in touch with a Pittsburgh criminal lawyer at the earliest. He or she will have the relevant experience in criminal defense that is required to fight this legal battle. With their skill and knowledge, they will be able to protect your rights and interest in the best possible manner and try to get an outcome in your favor. So, resort to a criminal defense attorney immediately and schedule a free consultation now.

As mentioned, there can be various reasons for dropping the criminal charges against an accused defendant. Here we have put together a few particular facts that you must know if you are faced by such a situation and what you should do about it.

If you have any reasons which may persuade the prosecutors to drop or dismiss certain criminal charges, like the case of white collar crimes or an aggravated assault against you or someone you know, then you should discuss any and all possible reasons and explanations with an experienced and reputable Pittsburgh criminal lawyer in a free consultation.

One of the reasons charges are sometimes dropped is that though the prosecutor feels the alleged offender is guilty, the judge and/or jury might not. The prosecutor must gather evidence to prove his position, and sometimes there is just not enough. In that instance, he will drop the case against the offender.

It is important to note that the victim cannot drop charges against you. Once those charges are made, only the prosecutor can make that decision. If the victim suddenly doesn’t want to cooperate, it might lead to the dropping of the charges, if there isn’t enough evidence without the victim’s testimony to convince the judge and jury of the alleged offender’s guilt.

Upon dismissal or dropped charges, the accused will be free from all accusations and allegations and can now move to expunge the record of their charges. Discharge of liability in any crime is a generally informal procedure and is very common during the initial phase of the criminal proceedings where the prosecutors deal with the defendant in terms of the plea agreement or discover any new evidence in the case. Generally, cases are not dropped when the prosecutors have gone far ahead in the case and have prepared the arguments already with the case close to reaching the trial.

If your criminal charges get dismissed, if incarcerated, you be released from police custody, and you will be able to return to normal life again. But if there are several charges against you, a single dismissed charge will not be enough for complete exoneration. Rather, it actually often happens that a single charge against the defendant is dropped in favor of another one. Every charge or allegation against a criminal defendant must be combated and dealt with completely if you want to be completely absolved of all kinds of offenses or misconduct.

If you or someone you know amongst friends or family is accused of a crime and you are wondering whether there is a chance of getting those charges dropped or dismissed, then you should find a reputable and skilled criminal defense attorney near you.

If you live in Pennsylvania, then Pittsburgh criminal lawyers can be the right choice for you. Highly qualified, experienced, and intelligent, these lawyers can easily help you combat any criminal charges on your shoulders. Having dealt with many clients, defending them against all kinds of felony charges and misdemeanors including; drug crimes, sex crimes, or federal charges, these have lawyers able to vigorously fight and protect your interests on your behalf.

Criminal charges have extremely severe repercussions. Only a skilled and dedicated lawyer in Pittsburgh can help you fight your case by guiding you at each step. Quickly discuss your legal matter with such an attorney and step into a free and bright future ahead.

About the Author

Alex Scioscia is a legal content writer who specializes in producing clear, research-driven articles on criminal defense, DUI law, and related legal topics. His work focuses on helping readers understand complex legal issues and stay informed about their rights throughout the legal process.

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