An accusation of theft in Bucks County or Montgomery County places you directly into the criminal justice system, and the decisions you make early can shape the rest of the case. Do not plead guilty without speaking to a defense attorney who understands how theft charges move through Pennsylvania courts. Even a misdemeanor theft offense can carry penalties that affect future employment and show up on routine background checks.
Our attorneys are former prosecutors who have handled theft crimes ranging from low-value property disputes to more serious allegations. We examine the prosecution’s case and work toward an outcome that protects your record and your future. Reach out to our Doylestown office for a free consultation to discuss legal representation and next steps.
An accusation of a theft crime in Bucks County or Montgomery County can begin in one of three ways:
Regardless of how the accusation started, calling a defense attorney early helps you manage the legal process and protect your criminal record.
With years of experience defending people accused of theft crimes in Bucks County and Montgomery County, our lawyers can help if you are facing any of the following theft charges:
We defend these theft offenses at every stage, from initial filings to trial, and tailor legal representation to the facts and evidence in your case.
Sentencing depends not only on what happened but also on how each element is proven. A homicide by vehicle attorney in Pennsylvania can identify where the evidence is weak, question whether the alleged conduct meets the legal definition of criminal negligence, and present mitigation to reduce exposure.
How serious your theft offense is depends on grading. Pennsylvania law ties the grade to the value of the property, with special rules for vehicles, firearms, and protected victims. The table below explains how courts in Bucks County and Montgomery County classify theft crimes and the maximum penalties.
Under $50
Summary offense
Up to 90 days
Up to $300
Often handled before a Magisterial District Judge (MDJ); quick scheduling is common.
$50–$200
Misdemeanor of the second degree (M2)
Up to 1 year
Up to $2,500
The Commonwealth must prove value with competent evidence.
$200–$2,000
Misdemeanor of the first degree (M1)
Up to 5 years
Up to $10,000
Expect restitution requests in many theft cases.
Over $2,000
Felony of the third degree (M3)
Up to 7 years
Up to $15,000
F3 may also apply to businesses dealing in stolen property.
Theft of a motor vehicle
Felony (typically F3)
Up to 7 years
Up to $15,000
Filed under related statutes; practices differ by office.
Theft of a firearm
Felony of the second degree (F2)
Up to 10 years
Up to $25,000
Charged as a felony without regard to value.
Theft involving an elderly/dependent victim or a charitable organization
Upgraded grading
Varies by upgraded grade
Varies by grade
Enhanced grading based on victim or charitable status.
These are statutory maximums. Actual exposure turns on guideline ranges, prior record score, and the facts of the theft charge. If you need a review of your grading and options, our law offices can provide a focused consultation.
When you contact our Doylestown law offices after a theft accusation in Bucks County or Montgomery County, our criminal defense attorneys build a plan specific to your facts under Pennsylvania law. Strategies we may use include:
If you need legal representation now, a theft lawyer Bucks County defendants trust can review your theft charges and next steps in a focused consultation.
Facing theft charges in Bucks County or Montgomery County? Speak with our Doylestown team today. In your free consultation, a knowledgeable attorney will examine the facts, identify immediate risks, and explain practical options for your defense.
Do not contact the complainant, store, or alleged victim. Do not give statements to police or loss prevention. Call a defense attorney so all communication runs through counsel, and key evidence like surveillance footage and receipts are preserved.
No. You have the right to remain silent and to have a lawyer present during any questioning. We handle all communication and decide if any information should be shared.
An MDJ decides whether the Commonwealth has a prima facie case. It is often the best chance to test identification, value, ownership, or consent, and to narrow or dismiss counts before the case goes to the Court of Common Pleas.
Often, yes, if there is limited record, restitution is realistic, and the facts do not involve violence or a firearm. Admission to ARD is discretionary with the District Attorney, varies by county, and requires timely action.
An arrest creates a record. A conviction appears only if you plead guilty or are found guilty. Diversion programs like ARD can lead to expungement after successful completion.
An arrest creates a record. A conviction appears only if you plead guilty or are found guilty. Diversion programs like ARD can lead to expungement after successful completion.
Grading turns largely on fair market value at the time and place of the incident, with special rules for vehicles, firearms, and protected victims. Challenging value can move a case down a grade.
