According to the National Retail Federation, the most commonly shoplifted items in the United States are electronics, followed by makeup, razors, and high-priced clothing items, such as denim jeans and sneakers. While many might assume shoplifting is mostly committed by those struggling financially, the reality is that people from all walks of life engage in this crime—even Hollywood celebrities. No matter what was stolen or the reason behind it, the bottom line is: shoplifting is a crime and punishable by law.
If you find yourself facing a shoplifting charge, you must seek legal help as soon as possible. At Dua Law Firm, our experienced shoplifting criminal lawyers in Northern Virginia will aggressively fight for your defense in court.
Petit Vs. Grand Larceny
Shoplifting falls under larceny, the theft of property from a person or business. Depending on the value of what has been stolen, larceny can be categorized as petit or grand. In Virginia, under Virginia Code 18.2-96, shoplifting is considered petit larceny when the merchandise stolen is worth less than $500. Anything above $500, and you’re facing a grand larceny charge (Virginia Code 18.2-95).
On July 1, 2018, the threshold amount for a felony larceny in Virginia increased from $200 to $500. This was the first increase in the amount in approximately 40 years.
Punishment for Petit and Grand Larceny in Virginia
Petit (Petty) Larceny is a class 1 misdemeanor, which may result in up to 12 months of confinement in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
Grand Larceny is punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility for a minimum of one year and up to 20 years, at the discretion of the jury or the court if there is no jury; alternatively, the defendant may be confined in jail for up to 12 months, fined up to $2,500, or both.
A person charged with either form of larceny is at risk of jail time. A grand larceny charge is a felony and could result in jail time even for a first-time offender. If you have committed petit larceny, jail time is still a possibility. Whether or not jail time is possible depends on the circumstances of your case and your criminal history record. To give yourself the best shot at avoiding consequences that could harm your reputation, job prospects, or finances, it’s crucial to hire criminal lawyers in Northern Virginia whom you can trust.
Potential Defenses
At Dua Law firm, our experienced criminal attorneys in Northern Virginia have strategies for defending individuals charged with shoplifting.
- Identification: Were you the person who concealed the merchandise, or were you a bystander?
- Lack of Intent: Did you intend to take the item?
- Consent: Did the owner give consent for the defendant to take it, or was the defendant made to believe they had permission?
- Value: What was the value of the merchandise? If you are charged with felony grand larceny (merchandise value over $500), then we may be able to get it reduced to a Petit larceny (misdemeanor) by challenging the merchandise’s value.
Dua Law Firm will consult with you to curate the best possible defense that will be effective in the eyes of the law.
Experienced and Trained Criminal Attorneys in Northern Virginia
Dua Law Firm works tirelessly to ensure that every option has been exhausted and you have the best possible defense. If you or someone you know has been charged with larceny, it’s critical to hire an expert criminal lawyer to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
Take the first step toward defending your future. Contact Dua Law Firm at (703)-382-7300 or schedule a free consultation.