Larceny

Skilled Legal Defense Services for Larceny

Facing larceny charges can feel overwhelming, but understanding your rights and options is the first step toward protecting your future. Larceny, commonly known as theft, encompasses various unlawful taking offenses that carry serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and a permanent criminal record.

At Jacobs & Dow, LLC, our experienced Connecticut criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended clients against larceny charges for over 60 years, providing aggressive representation in all federal and state courts throughout Connecticut.

Whether you’re dealing with allegations of shoplifting, embezzlement, or more serious theft charges, the stakes are high. A larceny conviction can impact your employment opportunities, professional licenses, and personal reputation for years to come. That’s why having skilled larceny attorneys on your side is crucial to achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Understanding Larceny Charges in Connecticut

Larceny charges involve the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This broad category covers everything from stealing small items to taking substantial amounts of money or valuable property. The specific charges and penalties you face depend on the value of the alleged stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Key Elements of Larceny

Connecticut prosecutors must prove several key elements to secure a larceny conviction:

• Wrongful Taking: The property must be taken without the owner’s consent. This means the defendant had no legal right to possess the item in question.
• Carrying Away: There must be some movement of the property, even if minimal. This element is satisfied when the defendant moves the property from its original location.
• Intent to Deprive: The prosecution must demonstrate that the defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of their property. Borrowing something without permission, while potentially problematic, may not meet this standard.
• Value of Property: The monetary value of the stolen property often determines the severity of the charge. Higher value items typically result in more serious felony charges with harsher penalties.

Types of Larceny Charges in Connecticut

Connecticut law classifies larceny offenses into six degrees, with first-degree being the most serious:

• Larceny in the First Degree: This felony charge typically applies when the stolen property exceeds $20,000 in value or involves specific circumstances, such as theft from a person 60 years or older.
• Larceny in the Second Degree: Generally applies to theft of property valued between $10,000 and $20,000, also classified as a felony.
• Larceny in the Third Degree: Covers theft of property valued between $2,000 and $10,000, representing a Class D felony.
• Larceny in the Fourth Degree: Applies to theft of property valued between $1,000 and $2,000, classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
• Larceny in the Fifth Degree: Covers theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000, also a Class A misdemeanor.
• Larceny in the Sixth Degree: The least serious larceny charge, applying to theft of property valued at $500 or less, classified as a Class C misdemeanor.

Consequences and Penalties for Larceny Convictions

The penalties for larceny convictions vary significantly based on the degree of the charge and your criminal history:

• Fines: Depending on the severity of the charge, fines can range from several hundred dollars for misdemeanor charges to thousands of dollars for felony convictions.
• Jail or Prison Time: Sentences can range from a few months in jail for minor misdemeanor charges to several years in prison for serious felony convictions. Repeat offenders face enhanced penalties.
• Restitution: Courts often require convicted defendants to pay restitution to victims, compensating them for the value of stolen property and any related damages.
• Criminal Record: A larceny conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect future employment opportunities, professional licensing, housing applications, and other important life decisions.

Defenses Against Larceny Charges

Skilled larceny attorneys can develop various defense strategies depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Common defenses include:

• Lack of Intent: If you didn’t intend to permanently deprive the owner of their property, this could undermine the prosecution’s case.
• Ownership or Right to Property: If you had a legitimate claim to the property or permission to take it, this can serve as a complete defense.
• Mistake of Fact: If you genuinely believed you had the right to take the property due to a reasonable mistake, this may provide a defense.
• Insufficient Evidence: Challenging the prosecution’s evidence and highlighting gaps in their case can lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
• Procedural Violations: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the investigation or arrest, certain evidence may be excluded from trial.

The importance of having experienced legal representation cannot be overstated. Larceny attorneys understand the nuances of Connecticut theft laws and can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that non-attorneys might miss. They can also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options that minimize the impact on your life.

Consult with Criminal Defense Attorneys at Jacobs & Dow, LLC

If you are charged with larceny or if you believe you may soon be charged, you should consult an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. The consequences of a serious misdemeanor or felony conviction include large fines, incarceration, and a permanent criminal record that can follow you for years.

Our skilled criminal defense lawyers will analyze your case, develop favorable evidence, and explain your options. An aggressive defense may prevent a conviction and keep your record clean. When you are charged with a crime, you have the right to have your attorney present at all proceedings, and you do not have to answer questions from the police or the prosecutor without your lawyer present.

For over 60 years, our criminal defense lawyers have successfully represented Connecticut clients charged with crimes ranging from DUIs to white-collar crimes to high-profile prosecutions. We defend people accused of crimes in all federal and state courts of Connecticut, bringing decades of experience and a track record of success to every case.

Our larceny attorneys understand that every case is unique, and we take the time to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your charges. We work tirelessly to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome for your situation.

Take Action to Protect Your Future

Don’t let larceny charges derail your future. The first step to protecting your rights and learning about your options is to call a criminal defense attorney at Jacobs & Dow, LLC, in New Haven, Connecticut. Early intervention by experienced legal counsel can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin building your defense. Our team is ready to fight for your rights and help you navigate this challenging time with confidence.