Juvenile Theft and Burglary

Juvenile theft in one form or another is the number one crime among minors.  Theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of that property permanently.  There are, however, various levels of theft and the penalties that go with each.

• Petty theft and shoplifting are crimes in which the stolen property is generally valued at $400 or less, depending on the state.  This can include switching price tags or labels, eating food and throwing away the wrappers, and wearing clothes out of a store without paying for them
• Grand theft identifies crimes in which property valued at more than $400 is taken (depending on the state statutes).  Any time a firearm or vehicle is stolen it is also considered grand theft
• Burglary is charged when a person enters a building with the intent to steal.  This can usually only be proven when burglary tools are found on the accused or they enter a store with no money in their possession.

Juvenile Theft Penalties                                     

The penalties for conviction of these offenses vary by the level of the offense and the statutes in your state or municipality.

Possible Penalties

1.Petty theft is a misdemeanor and usually carries a maximum penalty of 6 months in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1000.

2. Petty theft with prior convictions can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony.  In the juvenile system that is up to the judge to determine.   A felony carries a maximum penalty of 3 years in state prison.  Even a misdemeanor charge at this level can receive a sentence of up to 1 year in county jail.

3. Grand theft can be considered either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the determination of the judge.

4. Burglary can be either commercial or residential.  Commercial burglary can be considered either a misdemeanor or a felony.  However, Residential Burglary is always a felony.

Juvenile Theft Sentencing

An underage offender is sent to juvenile court and the judge has the final authority to determine whether the maximum penalty is assessed or whether some alternative can be instituted.  He can choose to sentence a juvenile to therapy, counseling, or work programs.  In some cases he can order the charges to be dropped after the sentence is completed. 

Do You Need an Attorney to Guide Your Child through Juvenile Theft Charges?

A juvenile convicted of any form of theft can carry a juvenile criminal record with him for the rest of his life.  Often he is influenced by older friends to commit such crimes and his first arrest will cure him forever.  Rehabilitation is the goal for that young offender, and good legal advice or counseling can help you achieve it, often without being saddled with a juvenile record.

• If you need help with a Juvenile Criminal charge, Submit Your Case for a Free Review from a local Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer.