When you are facing a larceny or theft crime, you need a criminal defense attorney with knowledge and experience. Prosecutors take theft offenses seriously, and having a criminal conviction on your record can permanently impact your life, limiting your employment opportunities and straining your personal relationships.
We understand the stigma of having a criminal record. Our legal professionals are dedicated to giving our clients the representation they need. A theft attorney could negotiate the penalty based on the nature of the offense. Depending on the circumstances and evidence the state has against you, prosecutors may be willing to drop the charges or, at a minimum, significantly reduce the penalty. Contact an Elizabeth City theft lawyer to discuss your legal rights and options.
State Theft Laws
Theft, or larceny, is considered the unlawful taking of property belonging to another person with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. Depending on the property, the state can charge theft as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Some examples of common larceny charges in North Carolina include:
- Misdemeanor larceny: taking someone’s property valued at less than $1,000 without their consent, intending to deprive them of it permanently
- Felony larceny: intentionally taking someone’s property valued over $1,000
- Misdemeanor possession of stolen goods: possession of property valued under $1,000 that someone knew or should have known was stolen
- Felony possession of stolen goods: possession of property over $1,000 that the person knew or reasonably knew was stolen
If someone has stolen multiple low-value items, the prosecutor will add up the value of the items, leading to a more serious felony charge. Some examples of other theft crimes include robbery, embezzlement, or fraud. No matter what theft charges a person is facing, an Elizabeth City lawyer can provide the representation they deserve.
Theft Crimes Sentencing
Someone convicted of a theft offense can face serious penalties such as expensive fines, probation, or time in prison. A theft conviction can follow the offender for their entire life, making it hard to find a job, apartment, or obtain loans. Convicted criminals often have strained personal relationships when released from prison.
State law categorizes larceny crimes into classes. A Class H felony is the most severe theft crime and can lead to four to twenty-four months in prison. Class 1 misdemeanors have a maximum penalty of 120 days in prison and a fine at the judge’s discretion. The penalty for Class 2 and 3 misdemeanor theft offenses is up to thirty days in jail and a $200 fine. If it is the second offense, the person could face sixty days in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A lawyer in Elizabeth City can develop a defense against any class of theft charges that protects a person’s rights and future.
Contact an Elizabeth City Theft Attorney to Discuss a Case
Speaking to a lawyer is crucial in criminal cases because your future is at stake. Our attorneys can advise you of your rights and have the skills to build a strong defense for you. Depending on the circumstances of the offense, a lawyer can advocate for lesser charges, a plea deal, or an acquittal.
The prosecutor bears the burden of demonstrating guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a criminal case. An Elizabeth City theft lawyer can work with you to defend the charges. Contact our office to schedule a consultation.
