Property Offenses – Criminal Defense Attorney in Philadelphia, PA
Charged with a Property Crime in Pennsylvania? Get Experienced Legal Help Now.
Property crimes are among the most frequently charged offenses in Pennsylvania. While some may seem minor — like shoplifting or trespassing — many are prosecuted as felonies that carry jail time, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. If you’ve been accused of a property-related offense, you need a defense attorney who will take your case seriously and fight for your future.
At the Law Office of Mark D. Hauser, we have over 30 years of experience defending clients throughout Philadelphia and surrounding counties against a wide range of property crime charges — from low-level misdemeanors to serious felonies. We understand how prosecutors build these cases and how to challenge them effectively.
What Are Property Offenses in Pennsylvania?
Property crimes generally involve the theft, destruction, or unlawful use of someone else’s property. You don’t have to physically harm anyone to be charged — but the legal and personal consequences can still be severe.
We defend clients facing all types of property-related charges, including:
1. Theft (Larceny)
Taking someone else’s property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The severity depends on the value of the stolen property.
Theft under $50: Summary offense
Theft over $2,000: Felony of the third degree
Theft from elderly or disabled persons can carry enhanced penalties
2. Shoplifting (Retail Theft)
This includes not only taking items from a store, but also altering price tags or removing merchandise from packaging to pay less.
First offense under $150: Summary offense
Third offense or theft over $1,000: Felony
Retailers often aggressively pursue these charges, even for small-dollar items.
3. Burglary
Illegally entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside (not necessarily theft). Burglary is typically charged as a felony of the first or second degree, depending on whether the building was occupied and the crime intended.
4. Criminal Trespass
Entering or remaining on property without permission. This is often charged when someone is caught in a vacant building, private lot, or closed business.
Can range from a misdemeanor to a felony, especially if force was used to gain entry.
5. Vandalism (Criminal Mischief)
Damaging or destroying someone’s property, such as slashing tires, breaking windows, or graffiti. Charges depend on the cost of the damage and whether the act was intentional.
Damage over $5,000 or targeting certain property (schools, government buildings) can result in felony charges
Penalties for Property Crimes
Penalties vary depending on:
The value of the property involved
Whether the offense involved violence, weapons, or intent to harm
Your prior criminal history
Consequences may include:
Jail or prison time
Heavy fines
Mandatory restitution (paying for damages or losses)
Probation or community service
Permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and education
How We Defend Property Crime Charges
Every property offense case is unique. We thoroughly examine the facts and evidence to build the strongest possible defense. Common strategies include:
✅ Lack of intent – Many property crimes require proof that you intended to steal or destroy property.
✅ Mistaken identity – Surveillance footage, eyewitness mistakes, or false accusations can lead to wrongful charges.
✅ False allegations – Especially in disputes between neighbors, ex-partners, or business rivals.
✅ Illegal search or seizure – If your arrest or property search violated your constitutional rights, we may be able to suppress the evidence.
Our goal is always to avoid conviction when possible — and where that’s not feasible, to reduce the charges or penalties through negotiation, diversion programs, or pre-trial resolution.
Serving Clients in Philadelphia and Surrounding Counties
We represent clients in:
Philadelphia County
Montgomery County
Delaware County
Bucks County
Chester County
Whether you're a first-time offender or facing felony charges, we provide experienced, aggressive, and personalized legal defense every step of the way.
Don’t Let a Property Crime Charge Define Your Future
Even a misdemeanor conviction for theft or trespass can follow you for years. Don’t face these charges alone. We’re here to protect your rights, your record, and your reputation.
📞 Contact Mark D. Hauser, criminal defense attorney, today for a confidential case evaluation.