Legal Guidance From A Criminal Theft Attorney In Metro Detroit
Last updated on May 7, 2026
An accusation of theft can make you feel like your entire world is closing in. You worry about your family, your job and how your neighbors or coworkers will treat you.
I have spent over 30 years as a criminal law attorney in Metro Detroit, including time as a Wayne County prosecutor. At my criminal defense firm, the Carl Jordan Law Firm, I offer free consultations to help you understand your options immediately. My goal as your theft lawyer is to lift my clients’ legal burdens and provide a clear, logical path forward.
Defense Against Different Types Of Theft Charges
Michigan law covers different actions under the umbrella of property theft, and I have the experience necessary to defend you against any of these specific charges.
- Petty theft and shoplifting
- Grand theft
- Auto theft and carjacking
- First, second and third degree burglary
- Armed and unarmed robbery
- Theft by deception or fraud
- Receiving stolen property
- Identity theft
- Theft of services
- Employee theft and embezzlement
- Retail theft
- Organized retail crime
- Pickpocketing
- Cargo theft
No matter the specific charge, I will provide a dedicated defense tailored to your case.
Understanding Michigan’s Theft Classifications
Theft usually involves taking property without using force. Robbery occurs when someone uses force or threats against a person. Meanwhile, burglary, or home invasion, involves entering a structure to commit a crime inside.
In Michigan, the law also classifies theft based on the value of the property involved. These value thresholds determine if the state charges you with a misdemeanor or a serious felony.
A misdemeanor generally involves smaller amounts and carries shorter jail times. Meanwhile, a felony conviction involves higher values and can lead to years in state prison. Prior convictions also change how the state handles your case because Michigan law allows for harsher penalties for repeat offenders.
The Potential Consequences Of A Theft Conviction
A conviction changes your life in ways that go far beyond the courtroom. It can lead to:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and restitution to victims
- Criminal record implications
- Impact on employment and professional licenses
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Loss of civil rights (for felonies)
- Probation conditions
- Community service requirements
As your theft defense attorney, I will work tirelessly to minimize these life-altering impacts.
Your Defense Strategies Against Theft Charges
Effective defense strategies against theft charges often challenge the prosecution’s ability to prove specific criminal intent. For example, a strong defense may demonstrate that the accused held a good-faith belief of ownership or acted under a mistake of fact regarding the property.
You can also seek to review police conduct to identify any violations of constitutional rights during a search or seizure. Other strategies include proving the owner provided consent or showing that the evidence fails to establish an intent to permanently deprive the owner of their belongings.
When the government’s case lacks sufficient proof, these strategies create a path toward a potential dismissal or a reduction of penalties.
Work With Me Today For A Comprehensive Theft Defense
I provide the aggressive defense representation you need because I understand how Metro Detroit courts and prosecutors operate. My decades of experience give me a deep understanding of Michigan theft charges and how to challenge them. I have a strong record of securing reduced charges and dismissals for my clients.
I combine this aggressive stance with a compassionate approach to your specific circumstances. Call my office today at 248-791-2792 or complete this form to schedule your free consultation.