Chicago Theft of Services Defense Attorney

If you’re facing charges under 720 ILCS 5/16-3 for theft of labor, services, or use of property, it’s crucial to have an experienced Chicago criminal defense attorney in your corner. These charges may not involve the traditional theft of physical items, but the consequences can be just as serious—especially if the value of services or property exceeds certain thresholds. At the Law Office of Phil Haddad, we fight aggressively to defend your rights and protect your future when you’re accused of theft-related offenses in Chicago.

What Is Theft of Labor or Services in Illinois?

Under 720 ILCS 5/16-3, theft isn’t limited to taking physical property. You can also be charged with theft if you knowingly:

Use someone else’s labor, services, or property without consent,
Deceive or threaten someone to gain access to something for hire (like equipment or services),
Fail to return rented or leased items such as vehicles, construction equipment, or party rentals,
Fail to return library materials worth $50 or more after notice.

These cases can arise from everyday misunderstandings, business disputes, or unintentional oversights. But when charges are filed, the legal stakes become real—and the penalties severe.

Common Situations That Lead to Theft of Services Charges

Clients in Chicago and throughout Cook County are often charged under Section 16-3 for:

Failing to return a rental car or U-Haul vehicle on time
Not returning expensive party equipment, construction tools, or electronics
Using services (like landscaping, security, or consulting) without paying or under false pretenses
Keeping borrowed library materials with significant value despite repeated written demands

These cases often involve contracts, receipts, or written demands—making them evidence-heavy and potentially complicated. We know how to challenge the prosecution’s assumptions and present your side of the story.

Penalties for Theft of Labor or Services in Illinois

Illinois law sets out the following penalties for violating 720 ILCS 5/16-3:

Subsection (a): Theft by unauthorized use of labor or services is generally a Class A misdemeanor, but if library materials exceed $300 in value, it’s a Class 3 felony.
Subsection (b): Failing to return rented vehicles or personal property over $500 in value is a Class 4 felony.
Subsection (c): Keeping library materials worth $50 or more can result in a fine of up to $500, but if the materials exceed $300, the charge escalates to a Class 3 felony.

In addition to fines and jail time, the court may order restitution—which means paying back the alleged value of the services, labor, or property involved, as well as court costs and attorney’s fees.

Defending Against Theft of Services in Chicago

As a seasoned Chicago theft defense lawyer, Phil Haddad will explore every angle to protect you. Possible defenses include:

Lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
Mistaken identity or errors in rental agreements
Failure to properly serve notice as required by the statute
Good cause for the delay in returning the items
Ambiguities in the terms of service agreements or rental contracts

In many cases, prosecutors push for convictions without fully considering the context. We won’t let them do that to you.

Get a Chicago Theft Defense Lawyer on Your Side Today

If you’ve been charged with theft of services or property use in Chicago, don’t wait. These cases can spiral quickly into felonies, fines, and a permanent criminal record. The Law Office of Phil Haddad is ready to take swift, aggressive action to defend your case.

Call us now at 708-833-3505 for a free consultation with a top-rated Chicago criminal defense attorney. Whether you’re being investigated or already charged, we’re here to fight for your freedom and future.