Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyers Defending Clients Charged With Theft Offenses
Theft and larceny in Virginia may be either a misdemeanor or felony offense, depending on the dollar amount in question. If the amount is less than $200, the charge is known as petit larceny and is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. If the amount is $200 or more, the charge is grand larceny. Moreover, if the stolen item was a firearm, you will automatically be charged with a felony regardless of the firearm’s value.
At Robinson Law, PLLC, our criminal lawyers for larceny have helped countless individuals who are facing shoplifting, petit larceny and grand larceny charges in Virginia, and they are standing by to discuss your case for free. Some of the best Virginia criminal lawyers have the experience to negotiate the terms of a larceny charge, and either have it amended to a lesser offense with community service and other terms or have it dismissed altogether. Of course, each case is unique with its own set of facts, and even the best criminal lawyers in Virginia cannot guarantee results. Contact us today: 703-542-3616.
What Are The Penalties For Petit Larceny In Virginia?
If convicted of petit larceny in Virginia, you will have a Class 1 misdemeanor on your criminal record. Additionally, you may face a maximum 12-month jail sentence, a $2,500 fine or both. Your larceny & theft defense lawyer will also explain that you may be ordered to pay restitution to the victim(s).
What Are The Penalties For Grand Larceny In Virginia?
If convicted of grand larceny in Virginia, you will have a permanent felony on your criminal record. A grand larceny conviction in Virginia also carries a maximum 20-year penitentiary sentence and a $2,500 fine.
Lawyer For Shoplifting And Altering Merchandise In Virginia
Shoplifting and altering merchandise in Fairfax can be classified as either petit larceny or grand larceny, depending on the value of the item(s). Loss prevention officers and store employees are authorized to detain (for up to an hour) any person suspected of shoplifting in Fairfax as long as they have probable cause to believe the person stole or was about to steal merchandise. Shoplifting is recognized as: (1) Purposely hiding, concealing or taking goods in a store (2) Altering an item’s price tag (3) Transferring items from one container to another (4) Any person who counsels, assists or aids another in shoplifting. A shoplifting or altering merchandise conviction in Fairfax carries the following penalties:
- A maximum of 12 months in jail
- A maximum fine of $2,500
- Any court-ordered restitution
- Shoplifter prevention class
- Community service
- Probation
What Is Conspiracy To Commit Larceny?
Conspiracy to commit larceny involves an agreement between two or more people to unlawfully take someone else’s property to permanently deprive the owner of that property. Even if the actual theft or larceny itself is not successfully carried out, the mere agreement and intent to commit the crime can lead to criminal charges. In Virginia, conspiring to commit larceny is a felony, and when such charges lead to a conviction, the sentence could be up to 20 years in prison.
Charges For Selling Or Distributing Stolen Goods
Selling or distributing stolen goods is a serious crime in Virginia. If you are accused of selling or distributing property that you know (or should know) is stolen, you could face severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Here are important factors you should know:
- The prosecution must prove that you knew the goods were stolen to secure a conviction.
- Merely possessing stolen property with intent to sell can lead to charges, even if no sale took place.
- The penalties can vary based on the value of the goods and your prior criminal history.
If the value of the stolen goods is $1000 or more, it is a Class 5 felony punishable by imprisonment of up to 20 years and hefty fines. Stealing more than one item of the same product may already be sufficient evidence to prove you had the intent to sell or distribute. The legal term for this type of evidence is prima facie evidence, which refers to evidence that is powerful enough on its own to affirm a particular fact or create an initial assumption of truth unless disproved or rebutted.
However, prima facie evidence is not necessarily conclusive. Your attorney can refute it using other evidence or legal arguments. If you or a loved one is facing charges related to stolen goods, do not hesitate to contact us for legal representation.
Facing Theft Charges? Speak With One Of Our Attorneys.
If you were recently charged with larceny or theft, reach out to Robinson Law, PLLC, for immediate assistance. At Robinson Law, PLLC, we have extensive experience handling all types of larceny and theft cases on behalf of our clients. We offer free consultations to all prospective clients so we can learn more about your case and offer our sound guidance. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation, call 703-542-3616. You can also connect with us through our online form.