Theft Charges Defense
Philip N. Clark, Esq.
Being charged with theft—whether misdemeanor shoplifting or a serious felony—isn’t just a legal matter. It’s a direct threat to your reputation, career, and future. I’m Philip N. Clark, an experienced theft attorney in Nashville, and I’ve helped clients across Davidson County navigate some of the toughest theft cases in Tennessee.
A conviction for theft can carry lasting consequences: jail or prison time, steep fines, loss of employment opportunities, and a permanent criminal record that follows you for life. That’s why having a skilled Nashville theft lawyer by your side is critical from day one.
Satisfied Client Stories
Why You Need a Nashville Theft Lawyer
In Tennessee, theft charges are tied to the value of the property allegedly taken. Something as minor as a misunderstanding at a retail store can escalate into a felony case. As your theft lawyer, I’ll examine whether:
- There was intent to permanently deprive the owner of property.
- Law enforcement lawfully obtained evidence.
- Witness testimony or video surveillance can be challenged.
- Your constitutional rights were violated during arrest or questioning.
I approach every theft case strategically—whether negotiating for dismissal, seeking charge reductions, or fighting aggressively at trial.
Felony Theft Attorney in Davidson County
When theft allegations rise to the felony level, the stakes couldn’t be higher. As your felony theft attorney, I’ll analyze the prosecution’s evidence, cross-examine witnesses, and expose weaknesses in their case. Felony theft can lead to years in prison and thousands in fines, so you need someone who understands not only Tennessee statutes but also how prosecutors build (and sometimes overreach in) theft cases.
I have extensive experience as both a former law enforcement officer and a defense lawyer, which gives me unique insight into how investigations unfold—and how they can be dismantled with the right defense strategy.
Information about theft charges
Theft Under Tennessee Law - Tennessee criminal statutes say that “a person commits theft of property if, with intent to deprive the owner of property, the person knowingly obtains or exercises control over the property without the owner's effective consent.” (Tenn. Code. Ann. § 39-14-103.) Stated another way, you commit theft in Tennessee by unlawfully taking someone else's property while having no intent to give it back to its owner.
Classifications and Penalties for Theft - Like many state, Tennessee classifies theft offenses according to the value of the property or services involved in the offense.
Class A Misdemeanor Theft (shoplifting, theft of merchandise)
- The value of the property or services obtained is one thousand dollars ($1,000) or less.
- The punishment for a Class A misdemeanor in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of no more than 11 months and 29 days, a fine of no more than $2,500, or both.
Class E Felony Theft
- The value of the property or services obtained is more than $1,000 but less than two thousand five hundred dollars $2,500.
- The punishment for a Class E felony in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of not less than one (1) year and not more than six (6) years, and a fine of no more than $3,000.
Class D Felony Theft
- The value of the property or services obtained is $2,500 or more but less than ten thousand dollars $10,000.
- The punishment for a Class D felony in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of not less than 2 years and not more than 12 years, and a fine not to exceed $5,000.
Class C Felony Theft
- The value of the property or services obtained is $10,000 or more but less than $60,000.
- The punishment for a Class C felony in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of not less than 3 years and not more than 15 years, and a fine not to exceed $10,000.
Class B Felony Theft
- The value of the property or services obtained is $60,000 or more but less than $250,000.
- The punishment for a Class B felony in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of not less than 8 years and not more than 30 years, and a fine not to exceed $25,000.
Class A Felony Theft
- The value of the property or services obtained is $250,000 or more.
- The punishment for a Class A felony in Tennessee includes imprisonment for a term of not less than 15 years and not more than 60 years, and a fine not to exceed $50,000.
For more information on drug charges in Tennessee, look at Tenn. Code Ann. § 39-14-101 et seq.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation
The moment you’re arrested or charged, the clock starts ticking. Don’t wait until your options are limited. Contact Philip N. Clark, your trusted Nashville theft attorney, for a confidential consultation. Together, we’ll build a defense strategy to protect your freedom, your record, and your future.
Connect with Philip N. Clark right away!
(615) 785-2000
