No matter the severity of your theft crime, a conviction can have far-reaching consequences that impact you for years after your conviction. If you are facing theft charges in South Carolina, a skilled Greenville criminal defense attorney from the Law Office of Mo Abusaft can make all the difference in the outcome of your case.
You do not have to deal with your theft charges alone. From investigating the prosecution’s evidence to securing witnesses, our Greenville theft crimes team works hard to protect your rights and fight for the best resolution possible. To learn how the Law Office of Mo Abusaft can help with your case, contact us for a consultation today.
Types of Theft-Related Charges in Greenville
Larceny, commonly known as theft, involves taking property belonging to another without that person’s permission and with the intention of permanently depriving the other person of their property. The crime of theft is completed when you obtain this unauthorized control over the property.
For example, suppose that you take an item of food from the gas station and try to leave the gas station with it, but are stopped at the door. You can still be charged with theft even though you did not make it out of the gas station since you obtained control over the item of food and did so with the intention of stealing it.
Beyond petty theft and grand theft, you can also be charged with other theft-adjacent charges, such as:
- Embezzlement
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Receiving stolen goods
- Shoplifting
Each of these offenses is punishable by periods of incarceration, fines, restitution, probation, and other consequences. You are also left with a misdemeanor or felony criminal on your record, which can impact your ability to get certain jobs or continue your education.
It is critical to reach out for legal guidance immediately after being charged with a theft-related crime in Greenville to discuss your charges and options.
Common Defenses to Theft Charges
You do not want to accept a plea deal or a pre-trial intervention in Greenville without first exploring your legal defenses with a knowledgeable Greenville theft crimes attorney. A plea deal or a pre-trial intervention can cause you unnecessary expenses and complications if you have an otherwise valid defense.
For instance, the facts of your case may reveal that:
- You had no intention of stealing the item in question
- You have already made full restitution to the other party
- You had permission to possess or use the item temporarily
- You were mistaken for another individual by a witness
- You were charged with a felony, but the value of the property only supports misdemeanor charges
These and other defenses can reduce the penalties you face or result in a dismissal of the charges against you. Such defenses go away once you accept a plea agreement or pre-trial intervention. Our knowledgeable team can recommend the best course of action in your case.
Consequences for a Larceny or Theft-Related Convictions
Larceny can be divided into petit larceny and grand larceny, depending on the value of the goods stolen. If the goods total less than $2,000, you can be charged with petit larceny. Grand larceny is the theft of certain goods that have a value greater than $2,000. Petit larceny is a misdemeanor, while grand larceny is a felony.
Both types of larceny, as well as other theft-related crimes, can be punished with:
Incarceration
You could be sentenced to jail for as little as 30 days or as long as ten years or more, depending on the exact charge you are convicted of. Even shorter stints in jail can disrupt your family and professional life and finances. You may experience a reduction in income and resulting financial hardships.
Fines and Restitution
The financial pain of a theft-related conviction can be compounded if you are ordered to pay fines. Typically, courts will order restitution to the victim so that the victim of the crime is made whole.
Such restitution orders are not easily dischargeable in bankruptcy or other similar cases and will continue to drain your finances until such orders are paid.
Probation
If you are not sentenced to incarceration, you could be placed on probation. Probation obligations can make work and home life difficult because you will have to periodically meet with your probation officer and accept random visits from your supervising officer. There may also be program fees you need to pay.
Criminal Record
With a theft-related conviction on your criminal record, you may find it difficult to keep certain professional licenses or obtain jobs in certain fields. This can limit your career options and earning potential.
Contact a Seasoned Greenville Theft Crimes Lawyer Today
Being charged with theft in South Carolina can affect your life for years to come. A Greenville criminal defense attorney from the Law Office of Mo Abusaft can provide the powerful representation you deserve and advocate for your best interests on your behalf. Protect your future, and contact us to schedule a consultation today.