Richmond Theft Offenses Lawyer

It's important to recognize that each theft case is unique, and various factors can influence the outcome, such as the value of the stolen property, prior criminal history, the circumstances surrounding the incident, and whether the accused has shown remorse or taken steps to rectify the situation. Our Richmond theft crimes lawyer can help you defend against charges.

Here is an overview of the penalties for common theft offenses:

• Petit Larceny (Petty Theft): Petit larceny involves the unlawful taking of property valued at less than $1,000. This offense is typically classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
• Grand Larceny: Grand larceny involves the unlawful taking of property valued at $1,000 or more. In Virginia, this is considered a felony, and a conviction can result in a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, depending on the circumstances of the crime.
• Shoplifting: Shoplifting is another common theft crime, involving the theft of goods from a retail store. This crime can be charged as either petit larceny or grand larceny, depending on the value of the stolen items. 
• Burglary: Burglary is the unlawful entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit theft or other crimes. This offense is more serious than larceny, as it involves entering a property with the intent to commit a crime inside. In Virginia, burglary is classified as a felony, and penalties can range from 5 years to life in prison, depending on the circumstances of the offense. 
• Robbery: Robbery is a theft crime that involves the use of force, threats, or intimidation to take property from another person. In Virginia, it is classified as a felony, with penalties ranging from 5 to 20 years in prison. 
• Embezzlement: Embezzlement occurs when a person who has been entrusted with someone else’s property or funds misappropriates or steals it. In Virginia, embezzlement is classified as a felony or misdemeanor depending on the amount of money involved, and a conviction can result in substantial prison time, fines, and restitution.

Besides the penalties, a conviction for a theft crime can result in a criminal record, which can have lasting effects on your employment opportunities, housing options, and personal relationships.

Defenses to Theft Charges in Virginia

If you are facing theft charges in Virginia, it’s important to know that there are various defenses available that can be used to challenge the prosecution's case and protect your rights.

Our Richmond theft attorney can thoroughly review the details of your case, identify potential defenses, and help build a strategy tailored to your situation. Among the defense strategies we may use are proving a lack of intent, demonstrating that you may be misidentified by witnesses or through surveillance footage, challenging the lack of evidence, or demonstrating that you were threatened or coerced into committing the theft by someone else.

In any case, having a Richmond theft crimes lawyer on your side is essential to help navigate these defenses, protect your rights, and work toward a favorable outcome.

Contact Our Theft Crimes Attorney in Richmond Today

Need a lawyer for a theft case in Richmond? Each type of theft crime has specific penalties. Some theft crimes are federal offenses and will be tried in the federal court system. When you are dealing with such a charge, it is critical that you have a criminal defense lawyer with experience, skill, and powerful abilities in the courtroom. 

Attorney Vaughan C. Jones has a background as a prosecuting attorney and knows full well how to operate when facing a judge and jury. The ability of your defense lawyer is extremely important in any criminal charge, and you can rest assured that you will be well-represented by the legal team at Vaughan C. Jones, Attorney at Law.

Contact Vaughan C. Jones, Attorney at Law or call at (804) 207-5735 today to get started on your defense with a Richmond theft crimes lawyer.