Being accused of a property crime can feel frightening and overwhelming. Many people never expect to face criminal charges, so when it happens, it can be hard to know what to do next. You may be worried about fines, jail time, or how a charge could affect your job, housing, or future background checks.
At Touma Law Group, our criminal defense team helps people in Anderson and throughout South Carolina defend against serious property crimes allegations. Our goal is to protect your rights, explain your options clearly, and fight for the best possible outcome. If you are under investigation or already facing criminal charges, speaking with an experienced property crimes lawyer early can make a real difference in your case.
If you are facing a property crime charge, do not wait to get help. Contact Touma Law Group today for a confidential consultation and learn how our criminal defense team can help protect your rights and your future.
Understanding Property Crimes Under South Carolina Criminal Law
Property crimes are criminal offenses that involve taking, damaging, or misusing property that does not belong to you. While these cases do not always involve physical harm, they are still taken very seriously under South Carolina criminal law.
A conviction, whether it results in a misdemeanor conviction or a felony conviction, can stay on your criminal record for years. This can affect employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licenses, and even insurance coverage. Working with experienced criminal defense attorneys early in the process is one of the most important steps you can take.
Common Property Crimes We Handle in Anderson, SC
Touma Law Group represents clients in a wide range of theft cases and property-related matters, including:
- Retail theft and shoplifting, which often involve misunderstandings or disputed intent
- Breaking and entering, even when there is no forced entry
- Criminal trespass involving homes, businesses, or disputed property access
- Damage to property, including vandalism and fire damage
- Auto theft, motor vehicle theft, and theft of motor vehicles
- Possession of a stolen vehicle
- Theft by deception involving false statements or misrepresentations
- Theft of lost or mislaid property
- Credit card theft and identity theft
- Misappropriation of funds, often tied to workplace or business disputes
- Armed robbery, one of the most serious property-related offenses
The details of each charge, including property value and alleged intent, play a major role in how the case is handled and what penalties may apply.
How Property Crime Charges Can Affect Your Life
Property crime penalties can extend well beyond the courtroom. Possible consequences include:
- Jail or prison time
- Fines and court costs
- Probation requirements
- Mandatory community service
- Restitution agreements requiring repayment to alleged victims
- Long-term difficulty passing background checks
If prosecutors allege you are a habitual felony offender, penalties may increase significantly. Even first-time offenses can have lasting consequences without a strong legal strategy.
Learn More: South Carolina laws addressing burglary and property crimes.
What to Do If You Are Accused of a Property Crime
If you are questioned or arrested for a property crime, your next steps matter. You should:
- Avoid speaking with law enforcement without a legal representative
- Avoid explaining or justifying the situation on your own
- Preserve documents, receipts, texts, or messages related to the case
- Contact a defense attorney as soon as possible
Early legal involvement can help shape the case disposition and protect your rights from the start.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
At Touma Law Group, every case begins with a careful review of the facts. A strong defense strategy may include:
- Challenging whether criminal intent existed
- Questioning ownership or lawful possession of property
- Identifying unreliable witnesses or conflicting statements
- Reviewing police conduct and search procedures
- Examining sample testing and evidence handling
- Identifying errors in jury instruction
- Conducting detailed trial preparation when necessary
In cases involving fires or serious property damage, we may review fire investigations, fire pattern analysis, and disputes involving an insurance policy.
Exploring Alternatives to Conviction
Not all property crime cases must end in a conviction. Depending on the facts, options may include:
- Negotiating a plea deal
- Participation in diversion programs
- A deferred prosecution program
- Reduced penalties such as community service
- Negotiated resolutions or a confidential settlement
These alternatives may allow you to avoid a permanent criminal record and move forward with your life.
Learn More: Should I Plead Guilty?
Why Clients Trust Touma Law Group
Clients trust Touma Law Group because we take the time to understand what they are facing and what is at stake. We know that property crime charges create stress, uncertainty, and fear about the future. Our criminal defense team focuses on clear communication, honest guidance, and strong advocacy at every stage of the case.
We do not believe in one-size-fits-all defenses. Instead, we build a thoughtful legal strategy based on your situation, the evidence involved, and your long-term goals. Whether your case involves retail theft, auto theft, property damage, or serious felony allegations, we are committed to protecting your rights, your reputation, and your future.
Take Control of Your Defense Today
Property crime accusations can feel overwhelming, but they do not have to define your future. With the right property crimes lawyer, it may be possible to reduce charges, avoid jail time, or protect your criminal record.
Touma Law Group is here to help. If you are facing property crime charges in Anderson, South Carolina, contact our office today at (864) 777 8062 to speak with an experienced defense attorney. The sooner you take action, the stronger your defense can be.
