Charlotte Theft Crime Defense Attorney | Shoplifting Lawyer NC
Defending against theft, burglary, robbery, and property crime charges
Theft and Property Crime Defense
Theft charges range from petty larceny to grand larceny, burglary and armed robbery. These charges can result in significant fines, jail time and permanent criminal records that affect employment and housing opportunities.
Theft Crime Classification in North Carolina
Petty Larceny - Less than $1,000
Theft of property valued at less than $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. While it may seem minor, a conviction can result in up to 120 days in jail, probation, and restitution. Multiple petty larceny convictions can elevate future charges to felony level.
Grand Larceny - More than $1,000
Theft of property valued at more than $1,000 is a Class H felony that can result in 4-8 months in prison for first-time offenders, and up to 39 months for repeat offenders. Felony convictions have long-term consequences including loss of civil rights.
Breaking and Entering
Illegally entering property with intent to commit a crime is a Class H felony. If it occurs in an occupied dwelling at night, it elevates to a Class D felony with penalties up to 204 months in prison. No actual theft is required - intent is sufficient for conviction.
Armed Robbery
Robbery using or threatening with a weapon is an extremely serious Class D felony. Minimum sentences begin at 38 months in prison and can go up to 204 months. A conviction results in permanent prohibition from possessing firearms.
Strategic Defenses Against Theft Charges
Each theft case is unique and requires a personalized defense strategy. Our attorneys meticulously examine every aspect of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution and build the strongest possible defense.
- Lack of Intent: Demonstrating there was no intent to permanently steal
- Disputed Property: Establishing you believed you had a right to the property
- Mistaken Identity: Challenging witness or camera identification
- Insufficient Value: Disputing value to reduce felony charges to misdemeanors
- Consent: Proving you had permission to take or use the property
- Rights Violations: Suppressing illegally obtained evidence
- Duress or Necessity: Demonstrating you acted under threat or extreme necessity
Collateral Consequences of Theft Convictions
Beyond criminal penalties, theft convictions have devastating long-term effects. It's crucial to understand these consequences to appreciate the importance of an aggressive defense:
- Loss of employment opportunities - especially in finance, retail, or government
- Disqualification from professional licenses and certifications
- Denial of federal student loans and financial aid
- Housing rental problems due to background checks
- Deportation or denial of immigration status for non-citizens
- Loss of child custody in divorce cases
- Social stigma and damage to personal and professional reputation
Fight Theft Charges Aggressively
We challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build strong defenses to protect your future from theft convictions.
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