Frederick County Theft Lawyer

Theft Attorney in Frederick County, VA

When an individual is charged with theft in Virginia, these charges may initially seem minor. However, this is not the case. Even for first-time offenders, a conviction for theft can have many negative consequences and harm the entire course of your future. Whether you have been caught pick-pocketing in Stephens City or have been accused of shoplifting in Frederick County, you need to hire an experienced Frederick County theft lawyer who can fight to protect your rights.

Why Work With Amable Law, PLLC for Your Criminal Defense

Since 2014, the team at Amable Law, PLLC, has been defending men and women across Virginia. We firmly believe that legal representation is crucial if you wish to successfully defend against a criminal charge and keep your criminal record clean. Our team has been around long enough to know exactly how the Frederick County court system handles these crimes, and we can use this knowledge to gain the upper hand in your case. Trust us to defend you today.

Types of Theft Charges Seen in Frederick County

In Virginia, most theft-related charges are classified as larceny. The kind of crime you are charged with, or the category of the crime, will ultimately depend on the facts involved in your case. In the United States, theft crimes occur at a rate of 1,347.2 per 100,000 people. The most common theft crimes that occur in Frederick County include the following:

• Petit larceny: This theft crime occurs when an individual allegedly steals an item of property that is valued at less than $1,000. The most common form of petit larceny is shoplifting. The state classifies this crime as a Class 1 misdemeanor, meaning someone convicted could face up to a year in jail and a $2,500 fine.
• Grand larceny: This crime occurs when a person allegedly steals an item from a person directly whose value is more than $5, or property that is worth $1,000 or more. It can also include cases in which an individual allegedly steals a firearm, even if the firearm is worth less than $1,000. Grand larceny is typically charged as a felony crime, and convicted individuals can face up to 20 years in prison and fines totaling $2,500.
• Robbery: This crime involves theft committed by force, violence, or the threat of violence. To be guilty of robbery, the accused party not only has taken property from the supposed victim, but has also resorted to violence, assault, or has made threats, such as when claiming to be armed with a deadly weapon.
• Burglary: This crime can be committed even if no property is actually taken. Burglary occurs when an individual enters a home or business with the intent to steal anything of value and lacks the property owner’s consent to be inside the structure.
• Theft with the intent to distribute: This crime occurs when an individual allegedly steals property with the intent to sell or distribute that property. Cases involve property valued at least $1,000 and are punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
• Carjacking: This crime occurs when there is the theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle by threat, force, or intimidation while a driver or passenger is present in the vehicle. In the United States, carjacking crimes happen at a rate of 6.6 cases per 100,000 members of the population.

How Amable Law, PLLC Can Defend You

Depending on the details of your case, there are several different defense strategies the attorneys at Amable Law, PLLC can employ to argue your side of the story. These include:

• Establishing an alibi
• Claiming consent or ownership
• Mistaken identity
• Acting under duress or coercion
• Entrapment by police
• Violation of constitutional rights
• Disputing the actual value of what was allegedly taken

FAQs About Frederick County, VA Theft Laws

What Should I Do if I am Arrested for Theft in Frederick County?

If you are placed under arrest on theft charges in Frederick County, it is paramount that you stay calm and exercise both your right to remain silent and your right to contact a defense attorney. Once you invoke these rights, the law enforcement personnel involved in your arrest cannot violate them. If they do, it can be used in your defense. Apart from offering your name, do not discuss the arrest with the police until your attorney arrives.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Theft Lawyer in Frederick County?

Because every theft lawyer is different, they will structure their fees in separate ways in Frederick County. So, it can be difficult to offer an exact number as to how much a particular lawyer might charge for their services. However, there are some factors common to most cases that can affect the final costs. These factors include the duration and complexity of your case, as well as your lawyer’s level of education and skill.

Is It Bad to Have a Criminal Record in Virginia?

In Virginia, it can be extremely damaging to your reputation and livelihood to have a criminal record. In fact, individuals with a permanent criminal record face a 30% unemployment rate across the United States. If you have a criminal record, it can also prove more difficult to secure housing and future educational opportunities, and it can cause issues if you find yourself involved in a child custody battle.

Do First-Time Theft Offenders Go to Jail in Virginia?

Yes, in certain cases, first-time theft offenders can go to jail in Virginia. However, in certain cases, a judge may be persuaded to use probation, community service, restitution, or certain first-time offender programs instead of jail. This can be particularly true in cases where the property allegedly stolen was of extremely low value.

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Hire a Theft Lawyer Serving Frederick County Today

If you have been accused of theft in Frederick County, you don’t have any time to waste. The prosecution involved will take their job extremely seriously and pull out all the stops to obtain a successful conviction. You need a legal team that will take your defense as seriously as possible. At Amable Law, PLLC, we are here to serve you and no one else. Contact our offices today to learn more about our services and to schedule an initial consultation.