Theft
A theft accusation, even over something small, deserves a good defence. We explain what could happen and stand by you at trial.
What it involves
Theft (hurto) means keeping something that belongs to someone else without using force or violence, for example taking products from a shop or slipping a mobile phone out of a bag when no one is looking. Depending on the value of what was taken and the circumstances, it is tried as a minor offence or as a full criminal offence, and it is often dealt with through the fast-track procedure.
Is this your case?
- A supermarket security guard stopped you on your way out and called the police.
- You are accused of taking money or goods from the company you work for.
- You have been summoned to trial for a theft you say you did not commit.
- Your wallet or phone was taken when you weren't looking and you want to report it.
How we help
We review the recordings, the value of what is being claimed and how you were identified. We explain your options before the trial, including the possibility of reaching an agreement or returning what is claimed, and we defend you at the hearing. If you are the victim, we help you report it and recover what was taken from you. We can help you in Spanish, Arabic, Tamazight, French and English, at our offices in Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Málaga and Barcelona or online, wherever you are in Spain.
If you have been summoned to an immediate hearing, see how fast-track trials work, and if you already have a conviction, we help you with criminal record cancellation.
Frequently asked questions
- Is theft of something of little value a minor offence?
- It depends on the value of what was taken and on other circumstances. When the value is low, it is usually tried as a minor offence (delito leve), but if there are repeat offences or aggravating circumstances it can be considered a more serious offence.
- I was caught in a shop and made to sign a document. What do I do now?
- Keep a copy of what you signed and of the summons, if you were given one. Don't try to sort it out yourself with the shop, and talk to us before the trial: we review the evidence, such as the camera footage or the security guard's statement.
- Does a theft conviction stop me from getting Spanish nationality?
- It can make it harder, because criminal records are taken into account in the application and also when you renew your residence. If you already have a conviction, we explain when you can have that record cancelled.
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Tell us about your case.
A first conversation — confidential and without obligation — to understand whether we can help, and how.
We speak Spanish, Arabic, Tamazight (Berber), French and English.