- Value-graded the alleged amount drives the charge level.
- Trust damage theft convictions hit jobs and housing hard.
Theft charges in Minnesota are graded largely by the value of what was allegedly taken, but even a lower-level theft conviction can do lasting damage because employers and landlords treat theft as a question of trust.
A small case can become a lasting one
Theft allegations can follow a person through employment, housing, licensing, and background checks long after court is over.
Intent and value matter
Theft cases may involve lack of intent, mistaken identity, a genuine claim of right, or an inflated valuation that changes the charge level.
Protecting the future
Where appropriate, Keil Defense pursues outcomes that avoid a conviction and protect future work and housing opportunities.
What is at stake
- Restitution and fines
- Probation or jail exposure
- Employment and background check issues
- Immigration and licensing concerns
What the defense examines
- Intent, identity, and claim-of-right defenses
- Value and restitution disputes
- Video and witness statements
- Shoplifting, employee theft, receiving stolen property, and fraud-related allegations
- Diversion or stay of adjudication possibilities
Updated May 18, 2026 · Law verified as of May 18, 2026. This article is general information about Minnesota law, not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can theft be kept off my record?
Some cases may qualify for diversion, stay of adjudication, or future expungement depending on the facts.
Does paying restitution dismiss the case?
Restitution can matter, but it does not automatically end a criminal case.
What if this is my first offense?
First-offense facts can affect negotiation strategy, but every case depends on venue and evidence.
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Read the guideThe information on this article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.