Understanding Larceny in North Carolina

Larceny is a serious criminal offense in North Carolina, involving the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. This crime can range from petty theft to grand larceny, depending on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the crime.

Defining Larceny

Under North Carolina law, larceny is defined as the taking and carrying away of personal property belonging to another person without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of its possession. The offense can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the stolen property and other factors.

Types of Larceny

There are several types of larceny recognized under North Carolina law, including:

  1. Petit Larceny: This involves the theft of property valued at less than a certain amount, typically $1,000. Petit larceny is classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can result in fines, probation, and jail time.
  2. Grand Larceny: This involves the theft of property valued at more than $1,000. Grand larceny is classified as a Class H felony, which carries more severe penalties, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.
  3. Larceny from the Person: This type of larceny involves stealing property directly from the person of the victim, such as pickpocketing. Larceny from the person is considered a felony, regardless of the value of the stolen property.
  4. Larceny by Trick: This occurs when the perpetrator uses deception or fraud to obtain possession of the property. The intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property must still be present for it to be considered larceny.
  5. Larceny by Employee: This involves an employee stealing property from their employer. The value of the stolen property determines whether the offense is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Penalties for Larceny

The penalties for larceny in North Carolina vary based on the classification of the offense:

  • Class 1 Misdemeanor: For petit larceny, penalties can include fines up to $1,000, probation, community service, and up to 120 days in jail.
  • Class H Felony: For grand larceny, penalties can include fines up to $10,000, probation, community service, and up to 39 months in jail. Repeat offenders may face even harsher penalties.

Impact on Criminal Record

A conviction for larceny will result in a permanent criminal record, which can have long-lasting consequences. This record can affect a person’s ability to find employment, secure housing, and obtain professional licenses. It may also impact their reputation and personal relationships. Having a criminal record can create significant barriers in various aspects of life, making it essential to seek legal representation to mitigate these effects.

Defending Against Larceny Charges

If you are facing charges for larceny, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an experienced criminal defense attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and build a strong defense to protect your rights. An effective defense strategy may include challenging the evidence, presenting mitigating circumstances, and negotiating with the prosecution for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options.

Legal Representation

At Doermann Edwards, we are dedicated to defending clients accused of larceny and other criminal offenses. Our team of dedicated attorneys is committed to providing comprehensive legal services to ensure the best possible outcome for your case. We understand the emotional and legal challenges involved in larceny cases and are here to support you every step of the way. You can also obtain more information by visiting the North Carolina School of Government’s website by clicking here.

If you or someone you know is facing charges for larceny in Guilford, Randolph, Alamance, Forsyth, or Rockingham County, contact us today for a free consultation. You can contact us via phone at 336-314-3749 or by filling out our contact form here. We are here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.