Theft Solicitors | Legal Defence

Facing a charge of theft can be a daunting experience, with serious implications for your personal and professional life. Whether accused of shoplifting, employee theft, or another form of theft, the consequences of a conviction can be severe, ranging from fines to imprisonment. At Kang & Co Solicitors, we understand the stress and uncertainty that comes with such allegations. Our legal team of specialist criminal defence solicitors, barristers and paralegals are dedicated to providing robust legal representation, ensuring that your rights are protected, and working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for your case.

If you are under investigation or have been charged with theft, it is crucial to seek expert legal advice without delay. Contact us today on 0345 222 9955or complete our online form for an initial case assessment and a clear, upfront fee quotation on an agreed fee basis. Our commitment is to offer you clear guidance and a strategic defence plan tailored to the specifics of your case, helping you navigate the legal process with confidence.

Kang & Co Solicitors has built up a strong reputation for Criminal Defence and is regarded as one of the top criminal law firms in the country with its top rankings by The Legal 500 and Chambers and Partners.

Theft Explained

The Criminal Offence of Theft is contained within Section 1 of the Theft Act 1968. This offence is committed when a person dishonestly appropriates property belonging to another with the intention of permanently depriving the other of it.

Therefore, in order to secure a conviction, the prosecution must prove beyond reasonable doubt the following elements have all been satisfied:

• Property is appropriated (taken)
• Dishonestly
• Which belongs to another
• The intention is to permanently deprive the other of the property

If the prosecution is unable to prove any of the above elements at Trial, then the Defendant is likely to be found Not Guilty.

Voluntary Police Station Interview: Theft Offence

The police will usually conduct a ‘Voluntary Police Interview Under Caution’ when dealing with certain types of criminal offences, or where they are dealing with suspects that have not been involved in the Criminal Justice System and are of a professional background. If the police officer dealing with the case takes the view that the suspect will co-operate with them by attending the station on an agreed date and time, they will be offered a voluntary interview.

If a voluntary police interview under caution is suitable, given the nature of the offence and given the circumstances of the suspect, the police officer will contact the suspect to arrange a date and time for the interview to be conducted.

The advantage of arranging a voluntary police Interview is the suspect is not under arrest and the interview is usually arranged to take place in the form of a pre-agreed appointment, which is more convenient for the suspect and the police officer investigating the allegation.

If you have been contacted by the police to an interview for an allegation of Theft, you should be aware that you are attending as a suspect in a criminal investigation, and it is not ‘a quick chat’. So that your rights and interests are protected at the interview, you should give serious consideration to appointing a theft solicitor as soon as possible so that you receive the right legal advice before, and during the interview.

If you decide not to co-operate or attend the voluntary police interview, the likelihood is that you will be arrested by the police.

The Sentence for Theft

Theft is a ‘triable either way’ offence, which means that it can be heard in the Magistrates’ or Crown Court.

If a person is convicted or pleads guilty, the court can impose a fine, community order or a prison sentence of up to 7 years.

What our Clients Say

“Excellent service from beginning to the conclusion. A realistic view and opinion regarding the case, a knowledgeable and experienced team. Kept us up to date with the progress and pursued any delay caused by the other party swiftly. Case preparations were spot on. Barrister Mr Shoker and solicitor Mr Manjinder Kang made an excellent team for our case. Would highly recommend, a true professional company, saved my job. A big Thank You to Manjinder and Mr Shoker, a great team.” – Pras

“Manjinder Singh Kang is an exceptional solicitor. Although my case was not straightforward, after a no obligation phone call I instructed Kang & Co. as Manjinder and team were just as motivated to win my case as I was. My previous solicitor did not entertain fighting all the way for my case when it was time to plea as often the easiest outcome is also the quickest to end the case. I believe Kang and Co. knew how essential it was for me as a professional to maintain my clean record to save the career and reputation that I have worked so hard for. He was attentive when I explained the full mitigating circumstances behind my incident and I realised that the only way for the facts to come out would be by fighting all the way to trial.

“Although every case has strengths and weaknesses, Manjinder was honest with myself on the best course of action to strengthen my case. His language, often involving complex areas of law was easy to understand and interpretable. Manjinder was very prompt with replying to my emails and always welcomed questions when I was unsure on a matter. The quotes were competitive and were payable in bite sized chunks as the case progressed. His choice of counsel was also a great match for the nature of my case. My case progressed to the Crown Court and Manjinder was still working hard throughout proceedings and often attended after completing his shift at his office. 

The combination of hard work, expertise and commitment to achieve the best possible result ended up in my acquittal at trial. I believe instructing Kang & Co. at the time that I did made all the difference in securing a successful outcome. I would recommend Kang and Co. if you need legal representation.” – Shahan