Suffolk Conspiracy Lawyer

Being charged with conspiracy to commit a crime is a serious offense that is punishable under the law. Depending on the nature of the conspiracy charges, it can be difficult to determine the best way to defend yourself against the charges. A Suffolk conspiracy lawyer could provide legal guidance, as well as assist you with your case.

If you plan to fight conspiracy charges, a seasoned defense attorney who understands the laws on conspiracy could develop a strategy for defending you against the charges. A conspiracy lawyer could also safeguard your legal rights and fight for an optimal resolution to your case.

Inchoate Offenses

Conspiracy is a type of inchoate offense for which a person could be criminally charged, tried, and punished if convicted. Inchoate offenses involve taking steps toward the commission of a specific crime, sometimes referred to as the target offense, and are against the law. Inchoate offenses include attempts to commit a crime, solicitation of others to commit a crime, and conspiring to commit a crime.

A person could still be charged with an inchoate offense, such as conspiracy, even if the target offense is never actually carried out. A conspiracy lawyer in Suffolk could answer specific questions regarding the laws on conspiracy and other inchoate offenses.

Conspiracy to Commit a Felony

The offense of conspiracy to commit a felony is detailed in section 18.2-22 of Virginia’s code on crimes and offenses generally. Conspiracy to commit a felony involves two or more individuals agreeing to carry out a felony crime, such as armed robbery, at some point in the future. Conspiring could also include making plans for how the felony crime is to be carried out, as well as when and where.

Conspiracy to Commit Larceny

The offense of conspiracy to commit larceny is also outlined in §18.2-22 of Virginia’s criminal code. Conspiracy to commit larceny involves two or more individuals agreeing to steal or commit theft of merchandise, goods, or other items valued at $500 or more. A person could still be charged with conspiracy to commit larceny for agreeing to participate in any way, even just as an accessory to the crime without actually committing the act of theft.

Potential Penalties for a Conspiracy Conviction

The penalties for conspiring to commit a felony depend on the type of target offense for which there is an alleged conspiracy to commit. In general, the law states that the punishment for conspiracy should not exceed the maximum punishment associated with the target offense.

Conspiring to commit a crime punishable by death, such as murder, is a class three felony, while conspiring to commit a noncapital felony crime is a class five felony. The punishment for a class three felony is a prison term of between five and twenty years, while the punishment for a class five felony is a prison term of between one and ten years. A fine could also be imposed for convictions of either class of felony.

Conspiring to commit larceny of goods or merchandise worth $500 or more is a felony offense that is associated with a prison term of one to twenty years. An experienced attorney in Suffolk for conspiracy could review the specific conspiracy charges against a person and answer questions about the possible penalties in the event of a conviction.

Consult with a Suffolk Conspiracy Attorney Today

You do not have to face conspiracy charges on your own. It can be difficult to navigate the legal system and trying to defend yourself against criminal charges is not an easy undertaking. Let a Suffolk conspiracy lawyer assist you with your case.

A lawyer could prepare a proper defense, protect your legal rights, and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact a conspiracy attorney today.