Hartford, CT Theft Defense Attorneys

Lawyers Providing Representation for People Charged With Larceny, Theft, Shoplifting, or Property Crimes in Connecticut

Being charged with theft or larceny in Connecticut can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Depending on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the offense, theft-related crimes may be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies. Additionally, certain theft offenses, such as identity theft, bank fraud, or wire fraud, may be prosecuted in federal court.

At Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC, we provide aggressive legal representation for clients facing theft and larceny charges in Connecticut, Florida, Massachusetts (state and federal), and New York (federal only). Our firm understands the complexities of theft-related cases, and we work diligently to protect our clients' rights, build strong defense strategies, and seek the best possible outcomes. If you are facing theft or larceny charges, contact our firm today for a free consultation.

We can help defend against theft charges and property crimes, including:

Shoplifting and Retail Theft

Shoplifting involves taking merchandise from a retail establishment without paying for it. Depending on the value of the stolen items, shoplifting can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Retail establishments frequently use surveillance footage and loss prevention officers to identify and apprehend suspected shoplifters. If you have been accused of shoplifting, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your defense options.

Auto Theft and Carjacking

Auto theft involves the unlawful taking of a motor vehicle without the owner's consent. In Connecticut, vehicle theft is generally classified as a larceny offense. However, if force or threats of violence are used to take a vehicle from another person, the crime may be prosecuted as carjacking, which carries severe penalties. Additionally, if a stolen vehicle is transported across state lines, the case may be prosecuted under federal law.

Forgery, Writing Bad Checks, and Identity Theft

Forgery, fraud, and identity theft involve the use of deception to unlawfully obtain money, property, or personal information. Common offenses include:

• Forgery: Falsifying documents, checks, or financial instruments
• Writing Bad Checks: Issuing checks with insufficient funds or fraudulent intent
• Credit Card Fraud: Using another person's credit cards to make purchases without their authorization, including when cards are stolen or when an account is accessed illegally
• Identity Theft: Using another person's identifying information without permission

Many of these crimes are considered white collar crimes, and depending on the circumstances of an alleged offense, they can result in either state or federal prosecution. Federal agencies such as the FBI or the Secret Service may become involved in cases involving large-scale fraud, interstate financial crimes, or online identity theft.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement is a theft crime that occurs when someone who has been given control of another person's property unlawfully takes or misappropriates those assets. This offense commonly involves employees who are accused of stealing from their employer, business partners who are accused of misusing company funds, or financial advisors who are accused of taking money from clients.

The penalties for embezzlement depend on the amount of money stolen and whether the case is prosecuted under state or federal law. Large-scale embezzlement cases may lead to federal charges and severe penalties, including restitution and imprisonment.

Robbery and Burglary

Robbery and burglary are considered more serious theft-related offenses, because they often involve force, threats, or unlawful entry. Specific charges may include:

• Robbery: Taking property directly from another person using force, threats, or intimidation
• Armed Robbery: Using a weapon or implying the presence of a weapon during a robbery
• Burglary: Entering a home, business, or other structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime

Unlike most theft or shoplifting charges, robbery and burglary are often charged as felonies, and they carry lengthy prison sentences, especially if weapons were involved or if injuries were allegedly inflicted during the commission of an offense.

Misdemeanor and Felony Theft Charges

Larceny can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the value of the money or property involved. As the financial amount increases, so do the consequences of a conviction.

• Misdemeanor larceny: Theft involving a retail value up to $2,000 will result in misdemeanor larceny charges (larceny in the sixth degree, fifth degree, or fourth degree) with a potential sentence of 90 days to 1 year in jail.
• Felony larceny: Theft involving a retail value above $2,000 will result in felony larceny charges (larceny in the third degree, second degree, or first degree) with a potential sentence ranging from 1 year to 20 years in prison.

Felony theft charges can lead to significant prison time and other penalties, but even misdemeanor theft or shoplifting charges should be taken seriously, since a conviction can result in a permanent criminal record. It is essential to work with a defense attorney who can seek a reduction in charges or alternative sentencing options.

Contact Our Hartford Theft Defense Lawyers

If you have been charged with theft or larceny, you should understand that conviction can have lasting consequences, affecting your employment opportunities, financial stability, and personal reputation. At Woolf & Ross Law Firm, LLC, we are committed to defending our clients against theft-related charges, and we are ready to provide you with the representation you need during your case.

Contact us today at 860-290-8690 to schedule a free consultation. We offer flexible payment plans, including flat fees and hourly retainers, as well as payments through major credit cards. Evening and weekend consultations are available by appointment.