A Petty Theft Charge Can Follow You a Lot Further Than You Think.
A misdemeanor on your record affects job applications, background checks, housing, and professional licenses. The charge may be “petty.” The consequences aren’t.
Most consultations take 15 minutes. We'll tell you exactly where you stand.
In Utah, a petty theft charge can result in up to a year in jail, fines up to $2,500, and a misdemeanor on your permanent record. It can also mean paying the victim’s attorney fees. But here’s what most people don’t realize: the conviction that follows you is often worse than the sentence itself. One background check, and a job you were qualified for disappears.
You have options. Let’s talk about them.
WHAT YOU'RE FACING — Charges & Penalties in Utah
These aren’t just numbers. A felony conviction changes what rights you have, where you can live, and what jobs you can hold — for life. If your charge is anywhere near a threshold, that matters, and we’ll fight for it.
Class B Misdemeanor Property or services valued under $500 Up to 6 months in jail · Fine up to $1,000
Class A Misdemeanor Property or services valued between $500–$1,499 Up to 1 year in jail · Fine up to $2,500
Third-Degree Felony Property or services valued between $1,500–$4,999 Up to 5 years in prison · Fine up to $5,000
Not sure what you're facing?
Tell us what happened. We’ll review your situation and give you straight answers — no legal runaround, no pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the petty theft charge go on my permanent record?
It can — and that’s exactly why this charge is worth fighting. A misdemeanor conviction in Utah becomes part of your criminal record. But depending on the circumstances, there may be options to reduce the charge, pursue a plea agreement, or in some cases, pursue expungement down the road. We’ll tell you what’s realistic for your situation.
Can a petty theft charge be expunged in Utah?
Yes, in many cases. Utah allows expungement of certain misdemeanor convictions after a waiting period — typically three years for a Class B and five years for a Class A. There are eligibility requirements, and the process takes time, but a clean record is often achievable. We can walk you through whether you qualify.
Do I actually need a lawyer for a misdemeanor?
Here’s the straight answer: not every petty theft case requires a full trial. But you should absolutely speak with an attorney before you do anything — before you talk to police, before you accept any deal, before you plead anything. Prosecutors handle hundreds of these cases. Having someone who knows how they approach them changes what’s possible for you.
What if this is my first offense?
First-time offenders often have more options than they realize. Diversion programs, plea agreements, or reduced charges are all possibilities depending on the facts of your case. We’ll be direct about what’s available and what makes sense for you specifically.
Can the store or alleged victim drop the charges?
In Utah, once a theft charge is filed, it’s the state — not the store — that decides whether to pursue it. A store can choose not to cooperate, and that matters. But they don’t control the outcome. We do the work of building the strongest possible defense and negotiating from there.
What's the difference between petty theft and shoplifting?
Shoplifting involves entering a store intending to steal — it’s about the intent. Petty theft is broader and involves actually taking property belonging to someone else. Both can result in misdemeanor charges in Utah, and both are defensible. The facts of how the charge was filed shape the strategy.
What You Get When You Work With Us
We handle criminal defense cases across Washington County and southern Utah. We know how local prosecutors approach these charges — and where there’s room to push back.
We’re not going to tell you what you want to hear. We’re going to tell you what’s true, what’s possible, and what we recommend — then get to work.
Straight answers, not runaround
We'll tell you where your case stands in plain language, including when the honest answer is "this is going to be a fight.
Local experience
We know the courts, the prosecutors, and the process in Washington County. That familiarity matters.
Protective, not preachy
Everyone makes mistakes. Our job isn't to judge — it's to defend you effectively and get you the best outcome available.