New Bedford Larceny Lawyer Serving Massachusetts

If you’re facing larceny charges in the state of Massachusetts, the best thing you can do is consult with an expert New Bedford larceny lawyer. A larceny or theft conviction can lead to a prison sentence, fines, probation, and even restitution. And don’t forget the potential long-term collateral damage to the future of your career.

Without an experienced and aggressive criminal defense attorney like Courtney K. Fogarty, you’re left to fend for yourself in the complex and often overwhelming court system. This makes it nearly impossible to know your rights and defend your case.

The prosecution carries the burden of proving you intentionally took something that didn’t belong to you, but this is easier than you think. There are several different sections of Massachusetts General Laws your charges may fall under. Ultimately, this means you can face larceny charges even if you didn’t physically remove someone else’s property.

Penalties

Larceny penalties in Massachusetts can be quite severe depending on the details of your charges. Working with a successful and wise New Bedford larceny lawyer is your best chance at avoiding these potentially life-altering punishments.

If the allegedly stolen property is valued at less than $250, potential penalties include up to a $300 fine and a 1-year jail sentence. For first-time offenders, the law specifically mandates jail time instead of prison time.

If the charges include theft of a firearm or trade secrets, you could receive up to a $25,000 fine and a 5-year prison sentence. If the property was stolen from an adult who’s disabled or over the age of 60, you’re looking at up to a 10-year prison sentence and $50,000 in fines.

Larceny or theft of property valued at more than $250 is a felony offense. This serious charge carries up to $25,000 in fines and a 5-year prison sentence.

Types of Larceny/Theft Charges

Larceny and theft are among the most prevalent charges in the Commonwealth’s court system. Under the General Laws of Massachusetts, larceny and theft are usually categorized according to the dollar value of the allegedly stolen property.

If the value is less than $250, you’ll most likely face misdemeanor charges. But even misdemeanor theft charges can carry harsh penalties. If the alleged value is $250 or more, you’ll typically face felony charges.

There are several other details that may impact a theft or larceny sentence. If the charges include theft of a firearm, trade secrets, motor vehicle, or trailer, the potential fines and prison sentence become much more serious.

Finally, the characteristics of the victim can drastically increase the penalties you’re at risk of facing. If the larceny or theft charges include a victim who is aged 60+ or disabled, the prosecution will seek far more severe penalties.

Potential Defenses

If you’re facing any kind of larceny charges, the potential consequences can be life-long. It’s vital that you secure superb and skillful representation by a New Bedford larceny lawyer. Courtney K. Fogarty has experience handling larceny cases.

It’s far more common than you may think for entrapment to factor into your actions, for example. If you had no prior intent to commit the theft and someone encouraged or convinced to do so, this can play a huge role in building an effective defense strategy.

Similarly, if you were under duress or forced into committing the larceny via extortion, threats, or physical harm, it’s entirely possible that you won’t be held responsible for the crime. But proving your innocence to the court requires an expert criminal defense attorney.

No matter what the details of your charges may be, Courtney will explore every option, review every detail, and work to dismantle as many elements of the prosecution’s case as possible.

FAQs

What is the Statute of Limitations for Grand Larceny in Massachusetts?

The statute of limitations for grand larceny in Massachusetts is six years. This means that for up to 6 years from the date of the alleged crime, charges may be filed against you.

Is Larceny from a Person a Felony in Massachusetts?

Larceny from a person is not automatically a felony in Massachusetts. Whether you’re charged with identity theft, embezzling, purse snatching, pick-pocketing, theft, or even cashing a check that isn’t in your name, the biggest factor is the value of the property in question.

Larceny becomes a felony when the stolen property is worth $250 or more, whether it was stolen from a person or an organization. 

What is Involved in a Larceny Case?

A larceny case in Massachusetts involves being charged with stealing someone else’s property, and eventually, a court date in which the prosecution will try to prove your guilt. Ultimately, you’ll receive a sentence if the prosecution is successful.

The thing is, larceny can be prosecuted under several different sections of Massachusetts General Laws. The property’s value, the property’s type, and even details about the victim impact how you’re charged and the penalties you’re facing.

This is why it’s absolutely crucial to contact a talented and experienced New Bedford larceny lawyer like Courtney, to advocate on your behalf.

Whether you’re facing misdemeanor fines or a felony prison sentence, Courtney will custom-build a strategic defense to get your charges reduced or dismissed entirely. Ready to work towards clearing your name? Just call (508) 317-0339 to book your free 60-minute initial consultation.