Minneapolis Grand Theft Lawyer

Serious Theft Charges Demand Strong Defense

If you are facing a serious theft accusation, the future can suddenly feel very uncertain. Felony-level theft charges can put your freedom, your criminal record, and your career at risk. At Tamburino Law Group, we represent people accused of significant theft offenses in and around Minneapolis and throughout Minnesota courts.

We know that an arrest, investigation, or even a phone call from law enforcement is stressful and confusing. You may not know what to say, what not to say, or how a single decision could affect your case. Our attorneys step in to protect your rights, explain your options, and guide you through each stage of the process.

Our team brings more than 100 years of combined criminal law experience to every case, including hundreds of jury trials in Minnesota courts. We offer free, confidential consultations, and we are available around the clock when you need immediate legal guidance.

Contact Tamburino Law Group to schedule a free consultation.

What Is Grand Theft in Minnesota?

Minnesota law does not technically use the term “grand theft.” Instead, theft offenses are classified by degree, primarily based on the value of the alleged stolen property and the circumstances involved. However, “grand theft” is commonly used to describe felony-level theft charges, as opposed to misdemeanor theft.

Under Minnesota Statutes § 609.52, theft becomes a felony when certain thresholds are met. Common examples include:

• Theft of property or services valued over $1,000
• Theft involving a firearm
• Theft of a motor vehicle
• Theft from a vulnerable adult
• Theft committed as part of a pattern of criminal conduct

Felony theft charges are aggressively prosecuted in Minneapolis courts. Even first-time offenders may face harsh penalties if the alleged value or circumstances elevate the charge.

Common Examples of Grand Theft Charges

Grand theft allegations can arise in many situations, including:

• Retail theft or shoplifting involving high-value merchandise
• Employee theft or embezzlement
• Motor vehicle theft
• Construction equipment or tool theft
• Theft by swindle or fraud
• Theft involving credit cards, checks, or electronic transfers
• Organized or repeat theft allegations

No matter how the accusation arises, prosecutors must still prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. Our Minneapolis grand theft defense lawyer can challenge weak evidence and expose flaws in the state’s case.

Grand Theft Penalties in Minnesota

The penalties for grand theft depend on the degree of theft charged and the alleged value of the property involved. Potential consequences include:

First-Degree Theft:

• Property value over $35,000
• Up to 20 years in prison and fines up to $100,000

Second-Degree Theft:

• Property value between $5,000 and $35,000
• Up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $20,000

Third-Degree Theft:

• Property value between $1,000 and $5,000
• Up to 5 years in prison and fines up to $10,000

In addition to incarceration and fines, a conviction may result in probation, restitution payments, loss of professional licenses, and long-term difficulty finding employment or housing. Even if jail time is avoided, a felony theft conviction can follow you for life.

Proving Theft: What the State Must Show

To secure a conviction, prosecutors must generally prove that you:

1. Took, used, or transferred property
2. Without the owner’s consent
3. With intent to permanently deprive the owner of it

If any of these elements are weak or unsupported, your case may be vulnerable to dismissal or reduction. Our Minneapolis grand theft defense attorney knows how to exploit these weaknesses effectively.

Grand Theft FAQs

Is grand theft always a felony in Minnesota?

Yes. While Minnesota uses degree-based theft classifications, “grand theft” typically refers to felony theft offenses involving higher property values or aggravating factors.

Can grand theft charges be reduced to a misdemeanor?

In some cases, yes. If the value of the property is disputed or the evidence is weak, charges may be reduced through negotiation or pretrial motions.

Will I go to jail for a first-time grand theft offense?

Not always. First-time offenders may be eligible for probation, diversion programs, or alternative sentencing, depending on the circumstances.

How long does a grand theft case take?

Felony theft cases can take several months or longer, depending on court schedules, evidence, and whether the case goes to trial.

Should I talk to police about a theft accusation?

It is generally best to speak with a Minneapolis grand theft defense lawyer before answering questions or giving statements to law enforcement.

Why Choose Our Defense Team

When you are searching for a grand theft lawyer Minneapolis defendants can rely on, you are really looking for a team that understands what is at stake in a felony case. Our attorneys have represented thousands of people facing serious criminal accusations, including complex theft and property crime charges. That depth of experience helps us quickly grasp the issues in your case and identify paths to a stronger defense.

Founding partner Joseph Tamburino is Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Minnesota State Bar. Only a small percentage of attorneys in Minnesota hold this credential, and it reflects advanced knowledge of criminal statutes, rules, and courtroom practice. For clients facing serious theft allegations, that level of training and focus can be an important advantage.

Our firm’s leadership also includes former prosecutors, such as founding partner Allan Caplan. Attorneys who have worked on both sides of the courtroom understand how the state builds its cases, how charging decisions are made, and where weaknesses may exist in theft investigations. We use that insight to anticipate prosecution strategy and to push back against overcharging or unsupported accusations.

In addition to our backgrounds, we are consistently recognized by organizations such as Super Lawyers and The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers, and several of our attorneys hold AV Preeminent ratings from Martindale-Hubbell. Joseph Tamburino has received the Minnesota Icon Award for his career and community impact, and our lawyers are frequently asked by local news outlets to explain high-profile criminal cases. These third-party honors support what matters most to you, that other professionals and the community trust our abilities in serious criminal matters.

Our culture supports that work. Tamburino Law Group has been named a “Best Places to Work” honoree by the Minneapolis/St. Paul Business Journal, which reflects a stable, client-centered team environment. We pair that internal strength with straightforward communication, so you receive honest guidance about your situation and your options.

Call (612) 444-5020 now to speak with our team.