Hartford Theft Crime Defense Attorneys
Representation for theft and larceny charges in Hartford & Manchester, CT
Whether you call it larceny, stealing or shoplifting, all of these types of theft crimes fall under the same umbrella of the Connecticut criminal code. These charges can range from something as simple as borrowing a lawn mower from a neighbor and neglecting to return it, all the way to complex embezzlement or financial extortion schemes. Depending on the circumstances involved and the value of the items or services taken, theft crimes can be felonies or misdemeanors with major repercussions.
If you’re facing charges like larceny, shoplifting, embezzlement or other theft crimes, the legal process may seem overwhelming. You may be embarrassed. You may have made a mistake. The authorities may even have the wrong person. But the potential consequences for conviction can include jail time, financial penalties and a permanent criminal mark on your record. The Hartford criminal defense lawyers at Barry, Barall, Taylor & Levesque, LLC can ensure your rights are protected when you’re accused of theft.
We work with prosecutors, negotiating with them and working to come to a positive outcome for your case. You don’t have to go through the criminal justice system alone. We can help.
Larceny and theft charges in Hartford
There are six degrees of larceny under Connecticut G.S. 53a-119. An individual can be charged with theft if they commit any of the following crimes:
- Conversion of a motor vehicle (car theft)
- Fraudulent use of an ATM
- Embezzlement
- Receiving stolen property
- Shoplifting
- Taking property that was lost or delivered by mistake
- Taking property under false pretenses or promise
- Theft of motor or vehicle fuel
- Theft of services
- Theft of utility services, like cable or electricity
Crimes like burglary, robbery, and home invasion also fall under the umbrella of “theft,” but they are very different crimes, and the potential consequences of those charges are severe. Your Hartford theft defense attorney can talk to you about any of these in more detail as they apply to your particular circumstances or situation.
Potential penalties for theft and larceny convictions
When you’re facing theft charges, it’s crucial that you understand the possible consequences of a conviction. Our Hartford lawyers begin working immediately to get your charges lessened, minimized or dropped completely. Following is a general breakdown of the penalties and consequences of a theft conviction. As you can see, with six different classifications of larceny in CT, things can quickly get complicated – but we can help simplify the legal process.
- Larceny Class B Felony – theft of over $10,000, up to 20 years in jail and up to $15,000 in fines
- Larceny Class C Felony – theft of between $5,000 and $10,000, up to 10 years in jail and up to $10,000 in fines
- Larceny Class D Felony – theft of between $1,000 and $5,000, up to five years in jail and up to $5,000 in fines
- Larceny Class A Misdemeanor – theft of between $500 and $1,000, up one year in jail and up to $2,000 in fines
- Larceny Class B Misdemeanor – theft of between $250 and $500, up to six months in jail and up to $1,000 in fines
- Larceny Class C Misdemeanor – theft of less than $250, up to three months in jail and up to $500 in fines
A juvenile can also be charged with larceny and theft crimes. Our Hartford juvenile crimes defense attorneys can provide experienced representation with these situations.
Why you need an experienced Hartford theft defense attorney
A criminal conviction can greatly restrict your future opportunities. In addition to the potential consequences of prison time and financial penalties, having a larceny conviction show up on a background check may result in loss of employment, housing, the right to vote and the right to own a firearm. Retaining skilled counsel at the outset gives you a much better chance at a favorable outcome and a clean record. Our lawyers are tough negotiators and we aren’t afraid to take our cases to trial.
We also, however, explore all alternatives to trial, like the Connecticut Accelerated Rehabilitation Program. This and other pre-trial diversionary programs can keep certain cases out of court, especially cases where the defendant is unlikely to commit the crime again. If you comply with the Court’s conditions, your case will ultimately be dismissed – with nothing on your record. Our criminal defense attorneys can explain more about these programs and whether they would be a good fit for your case.
We understand the many defenses associated with larceny, including entrapment, consent and belief of ownership. We also realize that some thefts are simply misunderstandings or mistakes. No matter what the circumstances or extent of your case, our legal team pursues every possible option for a successful outcome.
Accomplished Hartford theft and larceny defense attorneys
Any theft charges, whether felonies or misdemeanors, are serious and can have lasting effects on your professional and personal reputation. The criminal defense attorneys at Barry, Barall, Taylor & Levesque, LLC have been protecting the rights of the accused for decades. We can help you clear your name and keep criminal charges off your record. Get in touch with us today. We’re located right off I-84 or I-384 in Manchester. To schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers in Hartford or Manchester, please call 860-649-4400 or fill out our contact form.