Theft & Robbery Laws

Laws on Grand Theft

Grand theft involves the theft of property worth more than a specified amount.

Juvenile Theft and Burglary Laws

Juveniles who commit theft offenses are usually handled in the juvenile court system, not in adult court.

Receiving Stolen Property

It's a crime to not only take property that isn't yours, but to receive it as well.

Criminal Mischief

Any time a person damages someone else's property without the owner's permission, that's criminal mischief.

Types of Robbery Charges: Varying Felony Classes

Learn about the various types of robbery charges and the associated penalties.

Can I keep a bunch of cash that I found?

Money on the sidewalk, cash inside the walls -- is it yours to keep? Local laws may have something to say about it.

Burglary: Charges, Penalties, and Sentencing

Burglary is a serious crime and one that is typically charged as a felony offense, though some states allow for misdemeanor burglary charges in certain situations

Arson Laws and Punishment

Arson is a crime that states have divided into different degrees of severity. In some situations and in some states, arson may only amount to a misdemeanor offense, though felony charges are also possible.

Armed Robbery: Laws and Penalties

A person commits armed robbery when he takes something from someone else, using violence or intimidation, while carrying a dangerous weapon.

Caught Spraying Graffiti: What are the Criminal Consequences?

While it may seem like a minor crime, being caught spraying graffiti can lead to some significant criminal consequences.

Vandalism: Crimes and Penalties

In general, vandalism is not a serious crime unless the property destroyed is worth a lot of money.

Trespassing Penalties

Penalties for trespassing range depending on a number of circumstances. Learn more here.

Differences Between Theft, Burglary, and Robbery

The crimes of theft, robbery, and burglary are commonly lumped together because most people believe they involve the unlawful taking of someone else’s property.

Grand Theft Auto

The theft of a car is a specific offense in most states.

Misappropriation of Funds

Taking money that's been entrusted to you--but that you don't own--is a type of embezzlement known as misappropriation of funds.

What Is the Difference Between Joyriding and Stealing a Car?

Joyriding is taking a car without intending to keep it. In contrast, a person who steals a car does not intend to return it to the owner.

Extortion: Laws, Penalties, and Sentencing

Attempting to obtain money or other valuables by means of a threat is extortion.