Theft Crimes
PRACTICE AREAS
Prince William County Theft Attorney
Leading Criminal Defense Attorneys for Larceny, Shoplifting, and Theft Cases in Prince William County, Virginia
At the Manassas Law Group, our dedicated legal team is ready to come to your defense in your Prince William County larceny, shoplifting, and theft cases. Our experienced attorneys craft strategic defenses to protect your rights and defend your interests. Call us today at 703-361-8246 for a free, confidential consultation.
At the Manassas Law Group, our team of dedicated, experienced Prince William County Criminal Defense Attorneys stand ready to defend you in theft-related cases, including Grand Larceny, Petit Larceny, and Shoplifting. If you are facing theft-related charges, our Criminal Defense Lawyers will provide you with a robust legal defense. With our proven track record of success, including over 150 Google Reviews, over 30 Avvo reviews, and numerous local and national awards, we can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
At Manassas Law Group, we are not just focused on theft crimes; our experience extends to all areas of criminal defense in Manassas and throughout Prince William County, offering a comprehensive approach to protecting your rights and securing your future. To speak with an attorney at our firm about your case, give us a call at (703) 361-8246 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today.
Case Types
Theft Charges in Prince William County
Under the Virginia Code, theft, otherwise known as larceny, is defined as the unauthorized taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The law distinguishes between two primary types of larceny based on the value of the stolen property or the nature of the theft: petit larceny and grand larceny.
Although these are the two main types of larceny, there are several offenses that may fall under these categories, including things like robbery, burglary, fraud, credit card theft, embezzlement, obtaining money by false pretenses, and other types of theft.
Below, we’ll cover the difference between petit larceny and grand larceny, as well as some of the more common theft offenses we handle at Manassas Law Group.
Petit Larceny
As per Virginia Code § 18.2-96, petit larceny is defined as the theft of property or services valued at less than $1,000. It is commonly charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor theft offense, which may warrant a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of no more than $2,500.
Grand Larceny
According to Virginia Code § 18.2-95, grand larceny involves the theft of money or property valued at $1,000 or more, the theft of a firearm regardless of its value, or the theft of property directly from a person (like pickpocketing) if the value is $5 or more. Grand larceny is classified as a felony offense, which carries more severe penalties, including a prison sentence ranging anywhere from 1 to 20 years.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is the willful concealment or possession of goods from a store without paying for them. This offense can be charged as either petit or grand larceny, depending on the value of the property stolen. (Virginia Code §§ 18.2-95, 18.2-96, 18.2-103)
Robbery
Robbery is considered the taking of property from another person by violence or intimidation. This is considered a much more serious crime than theft/larceny due to the element of force or threat and requires the assistance of a skilled Manassas robbery lawyer to mitigate the potential consequences. (Virginia Code § 18.2-58)
Burglary
Breaking and entering into a dwelling house or other building with the intent to commit larceny, assault and battery, or any other felony is considered burglary. (Virginia Code § 18.2-89, 18.2-90, 18.2-91)
Motor Vehicle Theft
The theft or unauthorized use of an automobile is typically prosecuted under the grand larceny statutes but can also fall under specific motor vehicle codes depending on the case’s circumstances. (Virginia Code § 18.2-95, and others)
Receiving Stolen Goods
Knowingly receiving, buying, or concealing stolen goods, knowing them to be stolen, can result in either petit or grand larceny charges based on the value of the stolen property. (Virginia Code § 18.2-108)
Embezzlement
Fraudulently taking or using property by someone who was trusted with it, like an employee with company property, is considered the white-collar crime of embezzlement. This can be charged as either petit or grand larceny. (Virginia Code § 18.2-111)
Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Virginia
Theft crimes in Virginia carry significant short-term and long-term consequences that extend well beyond the immediate legal repercussions. In the short term, individuals convicted of a theft offense face potential penalties such as heavy fines, jail time, probation, and more. Of course, the type of offense and the amount stolen ultimately determine which penalties you face.
Petit larceny, classified as a misdemeanor for theft of goods valued under $1,000, can result in a jail sentence of up to 12 months and fines of up to $2,500. The possible penalties for grand larceny are much more severe. Considered felony cases, grand larceny involves theft exceeding $1,000 or the theft of specific items like firearms and can lead to a prison sentence ranging anywhere from one to twenty years.
The long-term consequences for a criminal conviction of theft are equally as daunting, if not even more so. A criminal record, particularly for theft, can severely limit employment opportunities, especially in sectors that demand high levels of trust, such as finance, legal, and government roles. This stigma extends to housing and educational opportunities, where individuals might face challenges in renting homes or securing loans and scholarships.
Beyond these practical implications, the social stigma attached to a theft conviction can strain personal relationships and community standing. Additionally, individuals may be held liable for restitution to their victim or victims, adding a financial burden. This combination of legal fees, fines, and potential unemployment can lead to financial instability, adversely affecting credit scores and long-term financial health.
Given these extensive impacts, securing skilled legal representation is crucial for anyone facing theft charges in Prince William County, Virginia, as a knowledgeable attorney can help navigate the complexities of the legal system and potentially mitigate these consequences.
Why Choose Manassas Law Group for Your Prince William County Theft Crime Case
Choosing a Prince William County theft lawyer from Manassas Law Group is a decision that brings with it the assurance of experienced and dedicated legal representation.
- Local Expertise
Our firm has a rich history of handling criminal cases in Prince William County, providing us with an in-depth understanding of Virginia law, local court procedures, and the nuances specific to the region’s criminal justice system. This experience is invaluable in navigating the complexities of theft cases, where each decision can significantly impact the outcome.
- Proven Success
Our process is backed by a history of successful defenses, glowing client reviews, and national and local awards.Our attorneys have earned countless awards including: Martindale Hubbel Client Champion, Avvo Top Attorney, Avvo Client’s Choice Award, SuperLawyers Rising Star, and 2022 Prince William County Trial Attorney of the Year (voted on by the Prince William County judges).
- Personalized Defense Strategies
We recognize that each case is unique. We tailor our defense strategies to your specific facts and circumstances. This personalized approach ensures that we have the strongest and most effective defense.
Contact Us
We offer a free case evaluation for new clients seeking criminal defense legal counsel. Call our Prince William County office today. Call 703-361-8246
At the Manassas Law Group, we represent clients charged with various types of theft offenses such as burglary, grand larceny, petit larceny, embezzlement, fraud, credit card theft, vehicle theft, and shoplifting. Time is of the essence when facing theft charges. Contact the Manassas Law Group today for your free, confidential consultation. We will assess the details of your case, explain your rights, and outline a strategic plan for your defense.
At Manassas Law Group, we prioritize client-focused service. We understand that facing criminal charges can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. That’s why we emphasize confidentiality, ensuring that all aspects of your case are handled with the utmost discretion. Communication is key to our approach; we keep our clients informed and involved at every stage of the legal process, believing that an informed client is an empowered one. Moreover, our representation is marked by compassion. We recognize the human element in every case and strive to offer support that goes beyond legal advice, acknowledging the emotional and personal challenges that come with facing theft charges.
When you choose a Prince William County Criminal Defense Attorney from Manassas Law Group, you’re not just getting a lawyer; you’re gaining an entire team dedicated to protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case.
Call an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney at Manassas Law Group Today
At Manassas Law Group, we stand firmly committed to defending and supporting our clients who are facing larceny charges in Prince William County. We understand the weight and complexity of these charges, and our promise to you is a defense rooted in skill, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of both the law and the personal challenges you may be facing. Our law firm is ready to provide you with the comprehensive legal support you need, ensuring that every aspect of your case is handled with the utmost care and professionalism and that your best interests are protected throughout the duration of your case.
We encourage you not to face these challenges alone. Reach out to a Prince William County theft lawyer from Manassas Law Group by calling (703) 361-8246 for a free consultation where we can discuss your case in detail.