It is unlawful to take or deprive a person or business of their property with the intention of keeping it. A theft or larceny conviction can have long-lasting and severe consequences on an individual’s life, including steep fines, jail time, and lengthy probation terms. Theft crimes also carry a stigma that could prevent people from finding stable employment or passing background checks.
Call an experienced Georgetown theft lawyer to schedule a consultation if you were arrested for robbery. Our dedicated criminal attorneys could help you fight for your rights in court.
Penalties for a Shoplifting Conviction in Georgetown
The most common form of theft in this state is shoplifting. If a court finds an individual guilty of shoplifting, they will likely face criminal penalties in addition to being civilly liable to the business where the incident occurred.
Upon conviction, the court will order the person to pay up to $1,500 for the stolen merchandise or goods. Likewise, guilty individuals must also pay additional fines of up to three times the price of the property they stole.
However, if the shoplifter is a minor, their legal guardian must pay these fines. When determining the penalties for shoplifting crimes, courts will also assess the reason for the arrest and case specifics. A knowledgeable attorney in Georgetown could answer questions after reviewing a shoplifting case.
What Elements Does the State Prove Specific Elements in Larceny Criminal Cases
State prosecutors in Georgetown must prove specific elements to establish that a person is guilty of theft. The components of larceny include:
- The other party owned the property in question
- The individual took the property without consent
- The person left the premises with the property
- There was intent to deprive the owner of their property
The evidence must also establish the total value of the stolen property or merchandise. If the case does not prove all the needed elements, there is no cause for a larceny conviction. A skilled lawyer could review an investigation to ensure the state proves these elements properly.
The Difference Between Petty and Grand Larceny
In most cases, theft falls into two categories: petty and grand larceny. Under the South Carolina Code of Law Annotated § 16-13-30, a person who steals property worth up to $2,000 is guilty of petty theft, resulting in a misdemeanor conviction and up to five years in prison.
An individual who steals property worth more than $2,000 is guilty of grand theft and will receive a felony conviction on their record. A conviction for theft of property worth up to $10,000 could lead to up to ten years imprisonment.
Theft Conviction Sentencing Alternatives
In some larceny cases, judges may sentence an individual to probation and suspend the remainder of their prison sentence. Usually, paying back the victim in a larceny case at or before sentencing is necessary to avoid a active prison sentence. A hardworking lawyer in Georgetown could review the case evidence to determine the best strategies for defending the theft charges.
Schedule to Meet a Seasoned Theft Attorney in Georgetown Today
A misdemeanor or a felony conviction could result in a criminal record conviction, outrageous fines, and jail time. Therefore, taking on a case without speaking to an experienced legal professional is never a good idea.
Fortunately, an experienced Georgetown theft lawyer could strategize a strong legal defense to help you receive a favorable case outcome. Call soon to schedule a meeting if you need help after a theft arrest.
