What is Theft?
Simply put, theft is deliberately taking something that belongs to someone else, without having the right to do so. The person who commits theft must have had the intention to steal something that belongs to another. Theft can include:
What Punishment Can You get for Theft?
In case of “simple” theft, the judge can impose a prison sentence of four years or a fine of over €20,000. Under certain circumstances, the criminal judge may impose harsher penalties. For example, if you committed the theft together with another person, you risk a prison sentence of six years. Different maximum penalties also apply in cases of burglary or robbery. We can investigate whether aggravating circumstances play a role in your criminal case. Feel free to contact us.
Why Hire a Lawyer if You are Suspected of Theft?
A conviction for theft can affect your future. For example, you may have problems obtaining a Certificate of Conduct (VOG). If you are suspected of theft, it is therefore advisable to contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer at the earliest possible stage. Your lawyer can investigate whether special circumstances play a role in your criminal case. Based on your case file, we will look for the best defense strategy in your criminal case. This can prevent unpleasant consequences in the future. You can contact us without obligation to discuss the possibilities in your criminal case.
What is the Difference between Theft and Embezzlement?
The difference between theft and embezzlement is that a thief takes away the property, while an embezzler already has the property in their possession legally. An example: when you take a book from a library without permission, it’s theft. When you borrow the same book from the library and then deliberately don’t return it, it’s embezzlement.
What is the Difference between Theft and Fencing?
Theft involves someone intentionally taking something that belongs to someone else, without having the right to do so. A thief will often want to resell the stolen goods to make quick money. To combat theft, the legislator has made fencing a punishable offense. Fencing occurs, among other things, if you acquire, possess, or transfer goods while at the time of obtaining those goods you knew (or should have known) that the goods were obtained through a crime. So if you buy a bicycle that you know is stolen, you are guilty of fencing. But this is also the case if you buy a bicycle for 30 euros from a homeless person, which turns out to be stolen. In that case, you should have suspected that the bicycle would be from a crime.
Have You Received a Settlement Proposal or Penalty Order?
In case of theft, the Public Prosecution Service will often choose not to present your criminal case to a criminal judge, but to handle the case themselves. This can be done through a settlement proposal or a penalty order. It is also possible that you will be invited for a Public Prosecution Service hearing. In all these cases, you risk getting a criminal record. Your lawyer may be able to prevent these adverse consequences. Please contact us without obligation at the earliest possible stage.
