Chicago Theft Defense Lawyer
Experienced Legal Help for Charges Under 720 ILCS 5/16-1
If you’ve been charged with theft in Chicago, you need a skilled and aggressive Chicago criminal defense attorney who understands Illinois theft laws under 720 ILCS 5/16-1 and knows how to fight for your rights in court. Theft charges in Illinois carry serious consequences that can affect your freedom, your reputation, and your future employment opportunities. At the Law Office of Phil Haddad, we provide relentless defense for clients accused of all forms of theft—from misdemeanors to Class X felonies.
Understanding Illinois Theft Law – 720 ILCS 5/16-1
Under Illinois law, theft is broadly defined and includes a range of conduct beyond simply “stealing.” According to 720 ILCS 5/16-1, a person commits theft when they knowingly:
- Exert unauthorized control over someone else’s property,
- Use deception or threats to obtain control over property,
- Possess stolen property, knowing or suspecting it was stolen,
- Accept property represented by law enforcement as stolen, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its use.
In each case, the prosecution must prove not only that property was taken or possessed, but that the accused intended to deprive the rightful owner of it permanently.
Types of Theft Charges in Illinois
Illinois classifies theft offenses based on value of the property, location of the crime, and the victim’s status. Some examples include:
- Class A misdemeanor: Theft under $500 not from a person.
- Class 3 felony: Theft between $500 and $10,000 or theft from a person.
- Class 2 felony: Theft involving public property or a place of worship.
- Class 1 or Class X felony: Theft exceeding $100,000 in value or committed in aggravated settings.
Penalties may include jail or prison time, restitution, probation, community service, and a permanent criminal record.
Repeat Offender Enhancements
If you’ve previously been convicted of theft, burglary, robbery, or other qualifying offenses, even a minor theft charge can be automatically enhanced to a felony, drastically increasing the potential penalties. Repeat offenders are often targeted aggressively by prosecutors in Cook County and throughout Chicago.
Specialized Theft Charges: Deceptive Practices
Theft by deception is a growing area of prosecution. Common examples include:
- Posing as a landlord to collect fraudulent rent or deposits
- Failing to return leased or rented property
- Accepting deposits for services and failing to perform
Illinois law includes specific sentencing guidelines for offenders who commit theft by deception, especially when targeting elderly victims or vulnerable individuals.
How a Chicago Theft Attorney Can Help
At the Law Office of Phil Haddad, we provide a strategic and personalized defense for every client. As an experienced Chicago theft lawyer, Phil Haddad examines every element of the prosecution’s case, including:
- Lack of intent or misunderstanding
- Ownership disputes
- Unlawful search and seizure of property
- Entrapment by law enforcement
- Witness credibility issues
Whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor shoplifting case or facing serious felony theft charges, we will aggressively fight to protect your rights and reputation.
Call Now – Free Consultation with a Top Chicago Theft Defense Attorney
If you’ve been accused of theft in Chicago or anywhere in Cook County, don’t wait. Early intervention by a skilled defense lawyer can make all the difference. Contact the Law Office of Phil Haddad today at 708-833-3505 for a free consultation.
We’re ready to stand by your side, explain your rights, and build a powerful defense. When your freedom is at stake, trust a Chicago criminal defense attorney with a proven track record of results. Let us help you fight back.