Grand theft differs from petty theft only in the total amount or value of the items stolen or removed without the legal owner's consent or knowledge. Each state has their own determination of grand theft, however in most states the amount required to bump a misdemeanor petty theft to a grand theft is approximately $500. In this same fashion even shoplifting, normally a misdemeanor offense, can be escalated to a felony if the amount of the items take or hidden on the person is over and above the state limit for petty theft. In most areas there are different degrees of grand theft that are reflective of the dollar value.
Grand Theft Penalties
The penalties for Grand Theft charges typically vary based on the degree of the charge with first degree the most significant . A lesser theft will result in lower charges while a higher value theft will often result in a combination of several options with regards to penalties. Stealing a firearm is almost always the most significant type of grand theft charge, regardless of the actual cost of the weapon.
Possible Penalties
- Jail time
- Probation
- Parole
- Restitution
- Community service
Grand Theft Sentencing
As with any type of sentencing there are typically mitigating factors that the court will consider. An attorney can present information that may affect the judge's or juries decision. Important mitigating factors may be issues with the owner of the property giving consent, especially in the case of a vehicle, or if the vehicle was knowingly lent to the other party and then reported stolen or any other such issues. In some cases there may also be issues with determining ownership of the property, which may be done through an attorney prior to the court. These types of cases will result in all charges being dropped if legal ownership can be determined in favor of the accused.
Can A Lawyer Help With Grand Theft?
Grand theft is one of the felony charges that can really affect your ability to continue employment or find new employment. Keeping these felony charges off your record or having them reduced to misdemeanors or alternative sentencing options is certainly important. Hiring a criminal defense attorney immediately after being charged will help you develop the best possible defense.
- If you have been charged with Grand Auto Theft, Submit Your Case for a Free Review from a skilled Criminal Defense Attorney.
