DuPage County Theft of Services Defense Lawyer

Attorneys Defending Clients Charged With Theft of Labor or Rental Property in Oak Brook

While theft occurs when someone takes someone else's property without their permission or through threat or deception, there are some situations in which an alleged crime involves the theft of something that is less tangible than goods or money. When someone fails to pay for labor they have received or return property they have rented, this is known as theft of services. If you have been charged with theft of labor or services, the experienced criminal defense attorneys at Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. can help you understand the charges and work to resolve the issue while avoiding a criminal conviction.

Theft of Services in Illinois

Illinois law (720 ILCS 5/16-3) identifies three types of theft of labor or services:

• Failing to pay for labor, services, or temporary use of property. This is a Class A misdemeanor which can be punished by up to one year of jail time and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Failing to return rented or leased motor vehicles, tools, construction equipment, equipment used for special events (such as tables, chairs, or tents), or other personal property which is worth at least $500 in value. This is a Class 4 felony which can be punished by one to three years of jail time and a fine of up to $25,000.
• Failing to return material borrowed from a library when the aggregate value of the material is at least $50. This is a petty offense which can be punished by a fine of up to $500. If the value of materials is over $300, this is a Class 3 felony which can be punished by two to five years of jail time and a fine of up to $25,000.

In addition to fines and imprisonment, a person convicted of theft of services may also be required to pay restitution to their victims, properly compensating them for their labor, services, or the costs of property rental.

Contact a Wheaton Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been accused of failing to pay for labor or services or theft of rental property, Kathryn L. Harry & Associates, P.C. can work with you to address these charges and reach a favorable outcome. We will investigate the circumstances of your case and help you determine your best options for minimizing the consequences of these charges. Contact our Lombard theft of labor defense attorneys at 630-472-9700 to set up a free initial consultation. We provide criminal defense representation to clients in Hinsdale, Downers Grove, Wheaton, Willowbrook, Western Springs, Clarendon Hills, and throughout DuPage, Kane, Will, and Cook Counties.