Hampton Theft Crimes Lawyers

Theft crime accusations can have serious consequences that could significantly impact your future, from fines to jail time. The lawyers at Beaton & Kiers, PLLC offer 50+ years of combined trial experience that we leverage to protect your rights and achieve the best outcome for your case. 

We’re based in Hampton and work with clients throughout Rockingham and Strafford counties, and all of New Hampshire. Call (603) 769-3491 for a free consultation.

The Importance of Intent in Theft Cases

A theft charge is rarely simple. At its core, theft involves more than the act of taking something that doesn’t belong to you. It also requires proving the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. Intent is one of the most pivotal components of a theft case. Without clear evidence of intent, prosecutors may struggle to sustain charges, creating an opportunity for our capable defense lawyers.

For instance, consider a scenario where an individual inadvertently walks out of a store with an item in their possession. They may have unknowingly placed it in their cart or forgotten to pay for it. While the act itself could appear to be theft, the absence of intent could invalidate any criminal charges. 

Similarly, misunderstandings or disputes in situations involving shared property, family members, or poorly defined agreements often hinge on clarifying intentions. New Hampshire law recognizes the nuanced nature of intent, and Beaton & Kiers, PLLC leverages this understanding on behalf of our clients.

The Role of Evidence in Theft Defense Strategies

While intent plays a crucial role in the legal definition of theft, evidence is the foundation upon which criminal defense cases are built or dismantled. From surveillance footage and witness testimony to forensic data and financial records, evidence often carries the weight of proving guilt or innocence. At Beaton & Kiers, PLLC, we take a meticulous approach to analyzing every piece of evidence to uncover weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and strengthen our defense.

Surveillance footage is frequently used in theft cases to establish the accused’s actions. However, video evidence may not be as definitive as it may appear. Angles, quality, and timing can all influence how actions are perceived. A shaky or grainy recording might lead to misinterpretations of what occurred. Our experienced attorneys carefully review such footage to determine whether it accurately reflects the incident. We also bring in experts, when necessary, to challenge its validity or contextualize the events it depicts.

Witness testimony is another common source of evidence in theft cases, but it is not without flaws. Human memory can be unreliable, and witnesses may unintentionally misremember or overlook key details. Additionally, witnesses may have biases that influence their account of events. Our attorneys are skilled at tactfully, but aggressively, cross-examining witnesses, identifying inconsistencies, and questioning credibility where appropriate. This could play a decisive role in undermining the prosecution’s version of the story.

Other types of evidence, such as receipts, digital transaction records, or communications, can also reveal inaccuracies in the charges brought forward. An allegedly stolen item might be proven to have been paid for or borrowed with the owner’s permission. Other times, the timeline of events presented by the prosecution may not align with the documented reality. Beaton & Kiers, PLLC leaves no stone unturned in defending our clients.