Charlotte Theft/Larceny Defense Lawyers

North Carolina recognizes numerous types of theft charges, including larceny, concealment, and shoplifting. Those facing theft crime charges face a wide range of penalties. The penalties depend on a number of factors, including the nature of the offense, the criminal history of the defendant, and the value of the stolen property. Whether you are accused of stealing a cell phone or vehicle, seeking legal representation is important.

Those convicted of theft crime also face negative educational, social, and employment consequences. If you are facing a larceny charge in Mecklenburg County, Arnold & Smith, PLLC can help. We thoroughly investigate our client’s cases to develop a persuasive legal defense. Contact our law firm today to schedule your free case evaluation and learn how we can help you.

North Carolina laws prohibit theft, otherwise known as larceny. The state of North Carolina used to distinguish petit larceny from grand larceny, also known as “petty theft” and “grand theft.” All of the older distinctions have since been abolished. Now, unless otherwise stated, all larceny is charged as a Class H felony. When the value of the stolen property is less than $1,000, however, the defendant will face Class 1 misdemeanor charges. Theft of motor fuel and auto parts is considered a separate larceny offense. However, theft of a motor vehicle is not a separate offense.

The following consequences can result from conviction of a theft crime:

• Expensive fines
• Incarcerations
• Restitution
• Probation and/or community service
• Permanent criminal record

You may not be able to request the court to expunge your criminal charges as you sometimes can in minor drug or alcohol charges. A larceny conviction will follow you around for the rest of your life, and will severely limit your options for getting a good job. If you have no criminal history, you will likely only face misdemeanor penalties. You will typically be required to pay a fine, make restitution, and probation or a short jail term.

Serious theft crimes come with severe penalties. Felony theft crimes are punished by over one year in jail. Theft crimes charged as a felony involve the use of force or violence. Felony larceny is a Class H felony. If you are charged with felony larceny, you will fall into Prior Record Level 1. You might face between four to eight months of jail time for your crime. The presumptive sentence is between five and six months, however.

Those defendants with a criminal history will be assigned a number of points that place them in a Prior Record Level between III and VI. The higher the Prior Record level, the greater the length of sentencing you will face. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor theft charge or a felony theft charge, you will greatly benefit from hiring an experienced Charlotte lawyer. At Arnold & Smith, PLLC, we can help fight for your rights throughout the entire process.

Under North Carolina law, shoplifting occurs when someone conceals an item while in a store with the intent to take the item without paying for it. When the defendant actually leaves the property of the store, the charge will become a larceny charge. What happens if you are an employee and you are accused of stealing something from the store?

Perhaps you are charged with putting the item in your handbag or locker? In this circumstance, you could face felony larceny charges. Shoplifting charges are often misdemeanors, but if you take an item away from the property of the store and the item is worth over $1,000, you will face felony charges.

Robbery is a distinct crime from larceny. Robbery happens when someone takes the property of another person without consent. Walking up to a person and grabbing her purse and running off with it is an example of robbery. The difference between robbery and larceny is that with robbery, the defendant takes the property directly from the victim. Those who use deadly weapons during a robbery face increased charges.

Are you facing robbery, burglary, shoplifting, or larceny charges? If so, our lawyers can help. Contact the skilled criminal defense lawyers at Arnold & Smith, PLLC as soon as possible to schedule your free case evaluation today and learn how we can fight for you. Call our lawyers at at (704) 370-2828 to evaluate your options or fill out our contact form. Now taking cases throughout North Carolina with offices in Uptown Charlotte, Mooresville and Monroe.