Property crime charges can range from minor offenses to serious felonies. These cases often involve allegations of theft, property damage, or unauthorized control over another person’s property. While some may assume property crime charges are minor, prosecutors in the Indianapolis area pursue these cases aggressively. A conviction can carry fines, jail time, and long-lasting consequences that affect your employment and reputation.
At Hayes Law Office, we understand the complexities of property crime cases. Attorney Philip Hayes brings more than 20 years of experience defending clients in Indianapolis and throughout Indiana, ensuring every detail is reviewed and every defense strategy explored.
Common Property Crimes in Indiana
Our property crimes defense team represents clients accused of a wide range of offenses, including but not limited to:
-
Burglary
-
Theft
-
Shoplifting
-
Vandalism / Criminal mischief
-
Criminal conversion
-
Check, welfare, or credit card fraud
-
Forgery
-
Possession of stolen property
-
Robbery
-
White-collar crimes
We focus on developing a personalized strategy for each client, considering the severity of the allegations, value of property, and specific circumstances of the case.
Burglary Defense
Burglary in Indiana involves unauthorized entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft. Penalties vary based on whether the property is a dwelling, whether the burglary is armed, and whether anyone was present at the time. Burglary charges can be felonies, and a conviction can have long-term consequences for your freedom and record. Our defense approach includes:
-
Reviewing evidence of entry and intent
-
Challenging prosecution claims regarding location or timing
-
Seeking alternative resolutions where possible
Theft and Shoplifting
Theft occurs when someone exerts unauthorized control over another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Indiana classifies theft based on the value of the property:
-
Class A misdemeanor: Property valued under $750
-
Level 6 felony: Property valued $750–$50,000
-
Level 5 felony: Property valued $50,000 or more
Shoplifting is a form of theft commonly involving retail stores. Even minor shoplifting charges can result in fines, community service, probation, or a criminal record. Our lawyers work to minimize consequences, negotiate reduced charges, and protect your record whenever possible.
Vandalism / Criminal Mischief
Vandalism involves the intentional destruction or damage of property. This includes graffiti, broken windows, or defacing public or private property. Indiana treats vandalism seriously, with potential outcomes including:
-
Restitution payments for damages
-
Probation or jail time
-
A permanent criminal record
Our team investigates claims thoroughly to determine intent, assess evidence, and challenge inflated damage estimates. Our goal is to reduce the impact on your life and record.
Why Hiring an Experienced Property Crimes Lawyer Matters
Property crime charges can be complex, involving multiple statutes, fines, and classifications. Indiana law covers everything from arson and trespassing to fraud and property theft, making it critical to have an attorney who knows the legal landscape and can protect your rights.
At Hayes Law Office, we:
-
Review every detail of your case carefully
-
Challenge inaccurate or incomplete evidence
-
Negotiate with prosecutors for favorable outcomes
-
Develop strong defense strategies to protect your future
Attorney Philip Hayes has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against property crime charges, using thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy to achieve the best possible results.
Protect Your Rights and Future
If you are facing property crime charges in Indianapolis, your freedom and reputation are on the line. The earlier you consult an experienced defense lawyer, the stronger your position in court. Contact Hayes Law Office today for a confidential consultation. We serve clients across Hamilton, Hendricks, Johnson, Hancock, Boone, Shelby, and Madison counties, defending against burglary, theft, shoplifting, vandalism, and all other property crimes.
Don’t wait—protect your rights and your future by calling us today.
