Theft offences

Theft offences cover a wide range of conduct, from simple theft to armed robbery and large-scale organised acquisitive crime. The seriousness of the charge and the potential sentence vary significantly, and early legal advice is important in all cases.

Offences covered

I accept instructions in all theft-related matters, including:

  • Theft (Section 1 Theft Act 1968)
  • Robbery (Section 8 Theft Act 1968)
  • Aggravated robbery
  • Burglary and aggravated burglary (Sections 9 and 10)
  • Handling stolen goods (Section 22)
  • Going equipped (Section 25)
  • Organised retail crime
  • Blackmail

Robbery

Robbery is theft using force or the threat of force. It carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Armed robbery, or robbery involving the use of a firearm or imitation firearm, is treated with particular seriousness by the courts.

Burglary

Domestic burglary, particularly where a dwelling is occupied at the time of the offence, is treated seriously by the courts. Aggravated burglary — where the offender has with them a weapon, firearm, or explosive — carries a maximum of life imprisonment.

Frequently asked questions

Theft becomes robbery when force or the threat of force is used immediately before, during, or after the stealing. Even a minimal degree of force can constitute robbery. The prosecution must prove both the theft and the use or threat of force.
Domestic burglary is triable either way but is almost always dealt with in the Crown Court where a dwelling is involved. Aggravated burglary is indictable only and must be tried in the Crown Court.
Handling stolen goods requires proof that you knew or believed the goods to be stolen. Mere possession is not sufficient if you can show you were unaware of the origin of the goods. The maximum sentence is fourteen years imprisonment.