Norfolk Theft Lawyer
The term “theft” covers a vast array of crimes ranging from stealing a few dollars from a coffee shop’s tip jar to armed robbery or carjacking. Some of these crimes are misdemeanors, but the more serious crimes are felonies that bring substantial penalties upon conviction. No matter what type of theft you have been charged with, you should seek the advice of a Norfolk theft lawyer who can help you explore your defense options.
Norfolk Theft Charges
The most commonly occurring theft crimes in Norfolk, Virginia, are larceny, robbery, and burglary offenses. Some examples are:
- Conspiracy to commit larceny
- Larceny with intent to sell or distribute
- Selling stolen goods
- Carjacking
- Attempted theft-related offenses
Some of these crimes are self-explanatory, but others are not as clear a Norfolk theft lawyer can help explain these charges and the penalties you may be facing.
In Norfolk, petit larceny (or petty theft) is defined as (1) unlawfully taking of money or property of value of less than $5 directly from another person; or (2) unlawfully taking (not directly from the person of another) goods or property valued at less than $500 (Virginia Code Section 18.2-96).
Virginia Code Section 18.2-95 defines grand larceny as (1) the theft of money or property valued at greater than $5 directly from the person of another; (2) the theft of property or services of over $500; or (3) the theft of a firearm. You also can be charged with conspiracy to commit larceny if you conspire to, counsel, or help someone steal goods worth more than $500 making it even more imperative that you contact a theft attorney in Norfolk.
Potential Penalties For Theft in Norfolk
Just as there are a wide variety of theft crimes in Norfolk, there are numerous potential penalties ranging from a fine to serious prison time.
Petit larceny is punishable as a misdemeanor, but grand larceny is punishable as a felony. Therefore, once you steal more than $500 in value or more than $5, if stolen directly from a person, you will be charged with a felony theft in Norfolk.
If convicted of grand larceny, you could face a prison sentence ranging from one to 20 years, a fine of $2,500, or both (Virginia Code Section 18.2-95).
If you are found guilty of carjacking, you could get 15 years to life in prison (Virginia Code Section 18.2-58.1(A)).
Benefits of Hiring a Norfolk Theft Lawyer
With the complexities involved in the numerous types of theft crimes, it makes sense to contact a Norfolk theft lawyer as soon as you are accused of one of these crimes. An experienced Norfolk theft lawyer will know the ins and outs of the system and will be able to assess your situation and come up with the best possible defense for your situation.
If you have been accused of a theft crime in Norfolk, call our firm today for a free initial consultation.
