Start with the evidence, not the charge label
Property-crime cases can turn on intent, ownership, value, identification and possession. A police report may summarize an accusation, but receipts, messages, video, photographs, location information and witness accounts can change how the evidence should be understood.
Issues to examine
- Identity and whether the accused is the person shown or described
- Ownership, permission and disputed property rights
- Intent at the time of the alleged conduct
- Value and how it was calculated
- Possession, knowledge and attribution
- Video, receipts, messages and other contemporaneous evidence
Defense strategy depends on the record
A useful defense review compares the complaint or investigative theory with the actual evidence. That can include police reports, recordings, digital information, witness accounts, physical evidence, prior records and the legal basis for police action. The strategy may involve investigation, motions, negotiation, trial preparation, sentencing advocacy or preserving issues for appeal.
Madison-based criminal defense since 1993
Robert T. Ruth represents clients from a downtown Madison office in Wisconsin state and federal criminal matters. The first consultation is an opportunity to identify the stage of the case, immediate deadlines and the evidence that should be reviewed or preserved.
Common questions
What is the difference between theft and burglary?
They are different offenses with different required elements. The correct analysis depends on the alleged conduct, intent and current Wisconsin law.
Can video evidence decide a property case?
Video can be important, but quality, completeness, identification and context still matter.
What if property was in a car or home I shared with someone else?
Possession and knowledge may be disputed when multiple people have access. The details of control, access and other evidence matter.
Related information
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. The law, defenses and possible consequences depend on the facts and current law.