Your Trusted Legal Services in Noblesville, Indiana

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If you have been charged with theft, shoplifting, burglary, or robbery in Indiana, it’s essential to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. At Whalin Legal, we understand the nuances of Indiana’s property crime laws and are dedicated to protecting your rights, reputation, and future.

THEFT IN INDIANA
Under Indiana Code 35-43-4-2, theft involves knowingly or intentionally exerting unauthorized control over another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of its value or use.

• Class A Misdemeanor Theft: Typically involves property valued under $750 and can carry up to one year in jail.
• Level 6 Felony Theft: May apply if the stolen property is worth at least $750, or if it involves a firearm, a motor vehicle, or if the accused has a prior theft or conversion conviction.
• Level 5 Felony Theft: Can arise under certain aggravating circumstances, such as higher property values or additional factors specified by law.

A theft conviction can have lasting consequences on employment, housing, and more. By working with Whalin Legal, you can better understand your options and develop a strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case.

BURGLARY IN INDIANA
Defined as breaking and entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a felony or theft inside, burglary charges vary in severity based on the circumstances:

• Level 5 Felony Burglary: Basic charge for breaking and entering with intent to commit a felony or theft.
• Level 4 Felony Burglary: If the structure is a dwelling.
• Level 3, 2, or 1 Felony Burglary: Higher levels apply if there is bodily injury, use of a deadly weapon, serious bodily harm, or other aggravating factors.

If you entered a home without any intent to commit a felony or theft, this may be charged as Residential Entry—a lesser offense. Our attorneys will analyze the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s narrative, and work to reduce or dismiss the charges wherever possible.

ROBBERY IN INDIANA
Robbery involves taking property from a person or their presence using force, threat of force, or placing someone in fear. Even minimal force (such as a push) can elevate a theft to robbery charges.

• Level 5 Felony Robbery: Basic robbery offense.
• Level 3 Felony Robbery: If committed while armed with a deadly weapon or causing bodily injury.
• Level 2 Felony Robbery: If resulting in serious bodily injury.

We will investigate whether the prosecution can prove the required level of force, as well as examine law enforcement procedures and witness statements, to help secure the most favorable outcome.

LOCAL EXPERIENCE MATTERS
Property crime cases in Hamilton County are often heard in Hamilton County Superior Courts #4, #5, or #6 for theft and shoplifting charges, or in Superior Courts #1, #2, or Circuit Court for more serious charges like burglary and robbery. Whalin Legal’s office is located just a block away from these courts, allowing us to efficiently handle filings, communicate with prosecutors, and stay informed on local judicial tendencies.

FREE CONSULTATION – CALL WHALIN LEGAL TODAY
If you’ve been charged with theft, shoplifting, burglary, or robbery, don’t face the legal system alone. At Whalin Legal, we provide skilled, strategic, and tenacious representation for clients throughout Central Indiana. A simple phone call can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and plan your next steps.

Contact Whalin Legal today for a free consultation and let our experienced attorneys fight for the best possible outcome in your theft or other property crime case.