Simply being accused of theft can destroy a person’s reputation. Worse, the consequences of a theft conviction can destroy a person’s livelihood.
If you have recently been charged with theft by the Commonwealth of Virginia, you require legal representation by a zealous Richmond, Virginia theft lawyer. The award-winning attorneys at Portner & Shure, P.A. can work with you to prepare an effective defense.
To speak with one of our attorneys regarding your case, call us at or contact us online.
Virginia Theft Laws
The Commonwealth of Virginia defines theft as the taking of money, property, or goods with the intent to permanently deprive the lawful owner of possession. Depending on the value of the property, theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Pursuant to Virginia Code § 18.2-96, a person can be charged with petty larceny if:
- The value of the property taken from another person is less than $5
- The value of the property or services taken is worth less than $1,000
Petty larceny is classified as a class 1 misdemeanor. A person convicted of petty larceny faces a potential penalty of 1 year in jail and/or a $2,500 fine. A person convicted for a second offense also faces a potential penalty of 1 year in jail, along with a minimum sentence of 30 days in jail and/or a $2,500 fine. A third offense however is treated as a class 6 felony. A person convicted for a third offense also faces a potential penalty of 1 to 5 years in prison.
Pursuant to Virginia Code § 18.2-95, a person can be charged with grand larceny if:
- The value of a property taken from another person is more than $5
- The value of property or services taken is worth more than $1,000
- A firearm was taken
Grand larceny is classified as a felony. A person convicted of grand larceny faces a potential penalty of 1 year in jail and/or $2,500 fine to a maximum of 20 years in prison.
Shoplifting Charges in Richmond, Virginia
Shoplifting is one of the most common types of theft crimes recorded in Virginia. Pursuant to Virginia Code § 18.2-103, shoplifting is considered a separate form of theft.
A person can be charged with shoplifting if:
- They willfully conceal or take possession of the goods or merchandise of any store or establishment
- Alters the price tag of an item
- Transfers goods from one container to another
While shoplifting is considered a separate offense from larceny or grand larceny, the criminal penalties for a shoplifting conviction are identical to the criminal penalties for a larceny conviction. In addition to criminal penalties, Virginia law also has civil penalties for shoplifting. If a merchant or owner is unable to resell the undamaged property, they can seek a civil penalty of $350. If a merchant or owner is unable to recover property, they can seek a civil penalty equal to twice the value of the property or $50.
What Can Portner & Shure Do for You?
A theft conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, loss of employment, and possible incarceration. If you have been charged with theft of any sort, you should not hesitate to reach out to our Richmond theft crime defense lawyers. We know the typical strategies used by local prosecutors, so we will be ready to craft your defense without delay.
