What happens after a theft, burglary or robbery charge?
I first identify what the prosecution has actually charged. Theft, burglary and robbery are different offenses, even when they appear in the same report or involve the same property. I need to understand the documents, the court handling the case and any upcoming appearance before discussing how the matter may proceed.
After I am hired, I obtain the police report and discovery and look at how the allegation is supported. That may involve accounts of ownership, access, movement of property or a confrontation. I examine what each piece of evidence shows instead of assuming that the label on the case explains every disputed fact.
A.R.S. § 13-1802: theftA.R.S. § 13-1506: third degree burglaryA.R.S. § 13-1902: robberyArizona Judicial Branch: criminal case process
How do these property charges differ?
A.R.S. § 13-1802 lists forms of theft involving another person's property or services. Burglary provisions address different conduct; for example, § 13-1506 concerns specified unlawful entry or remaining with an intent to commit theft or a felony. I review the particular burglary provision charged rather than treat every property allegation alike.
Robbery under § 13-1902 concerns taking property from another person's person or immediate presence against that person's will, with a threat or use of force for the intent described in the statute. The evidence about conduct and intent matters. I explain those requirements in relation to the case, without assuming that the presence of property alone establishes them.
A.R.S. § 13-1802: theftA.R.S. § 13-1506: third degree burglaryA.R.S. § 13-1902: robbery
How I handle a theft-related case
I compare the charge with the accounts, records and other discovery that bear on it. I look for legal issues, conduct interviews and consider what additional information could clarify the allegation. Questions about identification, knowledge, intent or the property's value must be examined in context rather than answered by a general webpage.
I also discuss the prosecution's position, possible defenses and mitigation. Where a plea agreement or lesser-charge option is available, I explain what it means alongside the decision about trial. I want you to understand why a piece of evidence matters and what remains uncertain, rather than feel pushed toward a conclusion before the file has been reviewed.
Chris's confirmed client inputs, October 22, 2026A.R.S. § 13-1802: theftArizona Judicial Branch: criminal case process
What evidence can affect the defense?
Ownership and permission, the account of entry, the identity of the person involved and any alleged threat or force can raise different questions. I review the material relevant to each actual charge. If the prosecution relies on recordings, statements or property records, I examine their relationship to the particular accusation.
Tell me whether you have a citation, a felony case or an investigation that has not yet led to charges. We can begin with the paperwork and your questions. The first consultation is free and I explain my flat fee during that call. I will be clear about what still depends on obtaining and reviewing the state's discovery.
A.R.S. § 13-1802: theftA.R.S. § 13-1506: third degree burglaryA.R.S. § 13-1902: robberyChris's confirmed client inputs, October 22, 2026
General information only. This practice-page draft requires Chris's review before publication.
