Winston-Salem Theft Crimes Defense Attorney

Defending Clients Against Theft Charges in Forsyth County

A conviction for a theft crime can result in severe penalties and a lifelong criminal record. Grace, Tisdale & Clifton is a prominent defense law firm representing clients throughout North Carolina. Our Winston-Salem theft crimes attorneys offer exceptional legal counsel to clients facing misdemeanor or felony charges.

Understanding Theft Laws in North Carolina

Theft, or larceny, is taking property belonging to someone else without permission. North Carolina classifies most theft crimes as larceny. Still, the offenses may be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the situation's specifics and the property's value.

Common Theft Charges in North Carolina

Theft crimes in North Carolina include:

• Misdemeanor Larceny – Taking someone's property without their consent, and it is valued at less than $1,000
• Felony Larceny – Property valued at more than $1,000 or theft meeting specific criteria, such as burglary, robbery of a person, or theft of a firearm or explosive
• Misdemeanor Possession of Stolen Goods – This crime is the possession of stolen property valued at less than $1,000.
• Felony Possession of Stolen Goods – In possession of property valued at more than $1,000 or acquired through burglary, robbery, or a person, or possession of a stolen firearm or explosive.

To determine the specific charges, the property's value must be calculated. When multiple items are stolen in a single theft incident, the value of all stolen items will be calculated together, which could still result in felony charges.

Penalties for Theft Crimes in North Carolina

Larceny charges in North Carolina can carry a wide range of penalties depending on the specific charge and the value of the property stolen. Below is a general overview of the penalties for various types of theft and possession of stolen goods charges in North Carolina:

Misdemeanor Larceny:

• Up to 120 days in jail
• Fine of up to $1,000
• Restitution to the victim

Felony Larceny:

• Penalties vary based on the value of the property stolen:
  • Property valued at $1,000 or less: Up to 8 months in prison and a fine of up to $1,000
  • Property valued at more than $1,000 but less than $25,000: Up to 39 months in prison and a fine of up to $5,000
  • Property valued at $25,000 or more: Up to 175 months in prison and a fine of up to $25,000

Misdemeanor Possession of Stolen Goods:

• Up to 120 days in jail
• Fine of up to $1,000
• Restitution to the victim