Atlanta Theft & Property Crime Defense Attorney
A theft or property crime charge may not sound as serious as a violent offense—but don’t be fooled. In Georgia, even misdemeanor theft can carry jail time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. And perhaps most damaging, a conviction for a “crime of dishonesty” can follow you for years, making it difficult to find a job, rent an apartment, or pass a background check.
If you’ve been charged with theft or a property-related offense in the Atlanta area, you need to take it seriously—and you need a defense attorney who will fight to protect your rights and your future. Brenda Rothman has the experience, insight, and dedication to help you face the charges head-on and seek the best possible outcome.
Common Theft and Property Crimes Brenda Handles
Brenda defends clients charged with a wide range of theft and property offenses, including:
Shoplifting
Theft by taking
Theft by deception
Burglary
Criminal trespass
Receiving stolen property
Vandalism and property damage
Theft by conversion (common in landlord-tenant and contractor disputes)
Forgery or credit card fraud
Whether you’ve been accused of stealing a few items from a store or charged with a felony-level property crime, Brenda will take the time to understand your side of the story and build a defense that fits your situation.
Protecting Your Record—and Your Future
Theft and fraud charges don’t just carry criminal penalties—they carry a lasting stigma. Employers often view theft convictions as red flags, even for low-level offenses. A single mistake can limit your career opportunities for years to come.
That’s why Brenda’s goal in every case is not just to avoid jail time, but to protect your record whenever possible. That may include:
Challenging the evidence
Negotiating for dismissal or reduction
Seeking pretrial diversion or conditional discharge
Fighting for a not guilty verdict at trial if needed
No matter your background or circumstances, you deserve a second chance—and Brenda works hard to make sure you get one.
Every Case Has Two Sides
In many theft cases, there’s more to the story. Maybe it was a misunderstanding. Maybe you were accused by someone with a motive to lie. Maybe you made a mistake you now regret. Or maybe law enforcement rushed to judgment.
Brenda Rothman listens without judgment and digs into the details. She will give you honest, straightforward advice—and a strong defense you can count on.
Get the Help You Need—Today
Brenda offers a free 15-minute consultation to help you understand your options, get answers to your questions, and start building a plan. She accepts all major credit cards and offers flexible payment plans in some situations.
Call today to schedule your free consultation. A theft charge doesn’t have to define your future—let’s take the first step toward protecting it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft & Property Crime Charges
Is shoplifting a felony in Georgia?
It depends on the value of the items. If the amount is $1,500 or more, it’s a felony. Less than that is usually a misdemeanor—but repeated offenses or special circumstances can still lead to harsher penalties.
Can I go to jail for a first-time theft charge?
Yes, it’s possible—but not guaranteed. For first-time offenders, Brenda often pursues alternatives like diversion programs or probation. The goal is to avoid jail time and protect your record whenever possible.
Will a theft conviction affect my job search?
Unfortunately, yes. Theft is considered a crime of dishonesty, and it can show up on background checks for years. That’s why it’s so important to fight the charge or work toward a resolution that avoids a conviction.
What if the property was returned?
Even if the property was returned, you can still be charged. But the fact that nothing was ultimately lost can sometimes help in negotiating a more favorable outcome.
Can I get a theft charge expunged from my record?
In Georgia, expungement (called “record restriction”) is only available in certain cases—typically when charges were dropped or dismissed. Brenda can review your case and let you know if you may qualify.
What if I was wrongly accused?
Wrongful accusations happen more often than people think. Maybe someone blamed you, misidentified you, or misunderstood what happened. Brenda will listen to your side of the story and work to expose any weaknesses in the case against you.
