Why Would You Need a Virginia Theft Attorney?
A Virginia theft lawyer can be a valuable asset for anyone charged with a crime. These charges can range from the theft of physical property to the theft of intellectual property. Theft crimes are prosecuted aggressively by law enforcement agencies and often result in jail time or fines.
Legal representation is crucial to successfully defend your case and keep your record clean if you have been charged with any crime. Contact an attorney familiar with Virginia theft laws as soon as possible after your arrest to ensure the best possible outcome and your best interests are served.
Contact a Virginia theft lawyer today to help avoid a felony conviction if you have been charged with larceny crimes.
Types of Theft in Virginia
Before speaking with your northern Virginia theft attorney, you may want to understand a little about theft charges. Many different types of theft can occur, including:
- Shoplifting
- Pick-pocketing
- Stealing a car
- Breaking into a house to steal something
- Taking something that belongs to your employer and selling it for personal profit
Theft can be charged as grand larceny or petit larceny, depending on the value of what was taken.
Penalties for Theft in Virginia
Theft is usually a misdemeanor offense, meaning it carries less than one year in jail and less than $2,500 in fines. However, the severity of the punishment depends on the value of what was taken and whether or not you have prior theft convictions.
The repercussions for theft in Virginia vary depending on the type and value of the property stolen. There are two types of theft: petit larceny and grand larceny.
If you steal something worth less than $1000, it would be petit larceny, and you would be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. It will be charged as grand larceny if it is worth more than $1000.
- Petit larceny is a misdemeanor, with sentences of up to 12 months in jail and a $2500 maximum fine.
- Grand larceny is a felony, thet carries up to 10 years in prison and a $100,000 maximum fine.
Plus, the thefts of items considered weapons, such as guns and knives, are automatically considered felonies regardless of their value. A reputable law firm can provide additional information.
To reduce the likelihood of a robbery conviction, consider retaining the services of a Virginia criminal lawyer. An experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to get your robbery charges dismissed. Contact Scrofano Law for a free consultation.
What Is a Larceny Conviction?
In general, Virginia’s theft laws are different from other states in the US. First-time offenses of Virginia’s three forms of larceny could result in a Class 1 misdemeanor, but subsequent offenses would result in a Class 6 felony.
- Theft by taking
- Theft by deceiving someone into believing they are getting something else
- Theft by receiving stolen property
Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, a Virginia criminal lawyer may be able to help you avoid a grand larceny conviction.
How Can a Virginia Lawyer Help a Theft Case?
There are many reasons why people may need to hire a Virginia theft lawyer. For example, if you were accused of shoplifting or were charged with stealing from your employer or someone else’s business, you should consult with a lawyer.
A Virginia lawyer can help a theft case by providing legal advice and representation for the accused. They can also assist you with the court process, such as negotiating settlement agreements with the prosecution or representing their client in court.
Why Should You Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A lawyer’s representation is crucial when facing legal charges. Criminal defense lawyers are typically well-versed in the law and can navigate the complexities of legal proceedings. Scrofano Law’s Virginia theft lawyer will be able to collect evidence, review the prosecution’s case against you, and aggressively challenge the evidence. A Virginia criminal lawyer can also assist with civil actions arising from criminal acts.
If you have been accused of any crime related to theft and robbery in Virginia, contact an experienced attorney who can help defend your rights and protect your interests.
Questions Frequently Asked About Theft in Virginia
What Does the Law Say About Shoplifting?
Although the law on shoplifting is not uniform, most states have a provision for its punishment. Shoplifting is usually considered a misdemeanor, and the punishment may vary from state to state.
Some states also provide for harsher punishments if the person is caught stealing more than one item at a time or if they are stealing goods worth more than a specific value. Your northern Virginia theft attorney can provide more information and explain how it applies to your unique circumstances.
Are You guilty if You Take Something from Someone Else’s Property Without Permission?
You are guilty if you take something from someone else’s property without permission. This is considered theft, and it is punishable by law. It is a criminal act, and you can be charged for it. You will have to pay for the stolen goods or items you took from the alleged victim’s property.
This might seem like a clear-cut answer, but there are some situations where taking something without permission might not be considered theft. For example, if the person has abandoned their property or it was discarded on public property, taking it would not be considered theft because no one owns that item anymore.
Contact a knowledgeable attorney from Scrofano Law for information and advice.
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