People don't always see criminal charges, especially those involving theft and larceny, as a momentary lapse in good judgment. There's a reason they're called "crimes of dishonesty" and "moral turpitude." Once labeled a thief, it can be difficult to regain your reputation.
Some employers, schools, the military, and even some companies that lease houses and apartments see a conviction for larceny as proof of bad character or being a dishonest person. They may want to have nothing to do with you!
Just one allegation of larceny and a resulting criminal charge, whether for a misdemeanor or felony "theft crime," can bring possible long-term, life-changing consequences. More often than not, a permanent criminal record is a never-ending burden, forcing you to prove yourself to people over and over.
That's why if it's possible to avoid a conviction and the resulting criminal record, you should do so. That's also why talking to an experienced criminal defense lawyer in Monroe makes sense.
At the Powers Law Firm PA, our Criminal Defense Attorneys have seen the sometimes harsh consequences that result from a larceny conviction. That is one reason our larceny defense attorneys in Monroe NC apply their training and significant courtroom experience in analyzing and investigating possible defenses.
We believe building an effective defense requires careful consideration of the fact pattern, the applicable NC Criminal Laws, and the case law handed down from both the NC Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals.
If you'd like more information about how our attorneys may be able to help you prepare a defense against larceny and theft charges, call the Powers Law Firm now at 704-342-HELP.
What you tell us is secret. That's what is meant by the attorney-client privilege. It applies to legal consultations and throughout legal representation.
Our goal is to build an effective, well-thought-out response and defense to the State's case.
We carefully review the evidence and seek to anticipate the potential legal arguments of the prosecutor (the Assistant District Attorney in Monroe / Union County NC).
Do I Need a Lawyer? We firmly believe, given the possible consequences of a conviction, you should hire a lawyer.
It's smart to immediately retain a criminal lawyer to defend any allegations of larceny charges in Union County, North Carolina, given there are often fast-approaching court dates and time-sensitive aspects of legal representation.
If possible, hiring a lawyer before criminal charges have been formally leveled and during the pre-arrest investigation can be extremely helpful. That's also true if the charge(s) are for both felony and misdemeanor allegations.
You may think, "I can apologize and offer to give everything back, and it'll be OK." While logical, that's not really how the criminal justice system works.
"Police have the job of investigating and bringing criminal charges. They really aren't in a position to forgive mistakes or tell victims, 'The perpetrator says they're sorry; we've decided not to charge them with a crime."
- Bill Powers, Criminal Defense Lawyer
It's our fervent belief that trying to handle things on your own, talk to the police, or provide an explanation can be a mistake.
If the police are asking questions, despite seeming very nice and friendly, there is a decent chance they think you're guilty.
Trying to talk your way out of things or thinking you can outsmart the police really isn't a good idea.
It's smart to have a legal representative investigate the allegations before saying anything, giving a statement, or cooperating with an investigation.
"Trying to 'clear up a misunderstanding' without legal counsel is problematic at best. We think it's better to immediately Lawyer Up if someone has accused you of possible criminal wrongdoing, even if you haven't been arrested."
- Bill Powers, Monroe NC Larceny Defense Attorney
There is a reason the framers of the Constitution established the 4th Amendment, the 5th Amendment, and the 6th Amendment. They understood the incredible power of the State.
Those amendments to the Constitution were not created to protect the guilty. They were put in place to protect all of us from unrelenting, unchecked police power, and abuses in our system of justice.
They keep the police from obtaining improper confessions, twisting your words, and preventing you from seeking legal advice during important aspects of the investigation and legal process.
You have a right to remain silent and speak to a lawyer for a reason. Exercise those rights.
Talking to a criminal defense lawyer now, potentially before criminal charges are brought, is considerably better than trying to explain away something you said when you didn't fully understand the nature and consequences of the allegations.
Remember this: The Police are allowed to lie to you in certain circumstances. They do not have to tell you everything they know or what evidence they have, and don't have, of a crime.
As such, we think it imperative to consult a Monroe larceny defense lawyer as soon as possible.
Don't wait.
The best time to call is before criminal charges are brought, during the pre-arrest investigation.
Why You Should Hire a Defense Attorney? There are a good number of reasons to hire a criminal lawyer in Monroe, NC.
First, we understand and are well-versed in the North Carolina Criminal Laws and the rules of criminal court.
We are in court on a daily basis and are quite familiar with the local protocols and practices of Union County, Iredell County, Gaston County, Lincoln County, Rowan County, Mecklenburg County, and the surrounding judicial districts.
While the criminal laws of North Carolina are the same, Union County is a relatively busy judicial district for its size and has a large criminal court caseload.
It's different than in Charlotte, where there are Mecklenburg County administrative and calendaring protocols that are somewhat unique to the 26th Judicial District can affect things like continuances, Probable Cause Hearings, Waiver of Probable Cause, First Appearances, Pre-Trial Release, and Bond Hearings.
"Monroe is a bit more straightforward and, to some extent, somewhat easier to navigate. We tend to get through cases in Union County faster than in Charlotte. We think it's important to start work immediately, as court dates are often set in the very near future."
- Bill Powers, Criminal Defense Lawyer Monroe NC
Charlotte also remains subject to a tremendous backlog of cases due to COVID closures. Prosecutors in Monroe call cases to trial on an expeditious basis and don't suffer from the same level of delays.
As such, it's important to be prepared for court and be ready to go when your case is called.
It makes sense to immediately Lawyer Up if you have criminal charges in Union County NC.
Part of what we do as defense lawyers is explain the criminal charges against you. We'll go through the State's Burden of Proof and what the prosecutor (the ADA) has to prove.
It's also important to understand why we make certain recommendations, or as Bill Powers likes to say, "I think it's important you understand the context of our legal advice and why I say what I say."
You need to know the possible penalties of a conviction, as well as your legal rights and options during each and every stage of the criminal court process.
We believe good decisions start with having accurate, reliable information and end with trustworthy legal advice. Only then can you make the best decision about what to do and how to handle your individual case.
Don't forget, there may be options available other than giving up and simply pleading guilty and praying for mercy.
In certain circumstances, there may be deferral programs available. And a trial by jury is your Constitutional Right.
A tremendous amount of discretion is afforded to both the State (the Union County District Attorney's Office) and the Court (the Judge) to decide whether to offer (or accept) Deferred Prosecution or a Conditional Discharge.
We like to roll up our sleeves and begin preparing your defense immediately.
That may involve conducting our own investigation into the allegations, talking to witnesses, and gathering evidence before memories fade and materials are destroyed, even inadvertently.
Little details can have tremendous consequences.
After we fully understand the allegations and know what the State can prove, if anything, we're able to develop our defense strategy.
Why It Makes Sense to Hire Powers Law Firm, Criminal Defense Attorneys in Monroe NC Bill Powers is a well-known courtroom lawyer in North Carolina with substantial experience handling complex legal matters.
"Everyone at the firm, from our legal support staff to courtroom lawyers, is dedicated to helping clients. We are not afraid to speak the truth to power. Zealous advocacy must also include compassion and empathy."
- Bill Powers, Criminal Defense Lawyer Union County NC
When you call our law firm, we think it's important you understand the following:
- We provide helpful information and legal advice you can trust
- For criminal charges, we charge nothing for the initial consultation
- Criminal Defense Lawyers keep secrets and confidences
- We do not judge our clients
- We will give you an honest assessment of your case
- We will tell you the truth about the strengths and weaknesses of the State's case against you
- We'll explain the legal process, how court works, and answer questions about what to expect
- What you tell us in consultation, even if you ultimately choose not to retain the firm, is confidential
Don't just take our word for it; check out our professional backgrounds, firm information, our awards and certifications.
Larceny in Monroe NC There are several laws in North Carolina that involve larceny charges, crimes of theft, and dishonesty.
One of the first places to look is in North Carolina General Statute §14-72.
That NC Criminal Law covers several different types of misdemeanor larceny charges and felony larceny in NC.
As you might understand, it's a pretty complicated area of law.
Sometimes whether something is considered a felony involves the value of the property stolen or the goods taken without permission. In other cases, the key factor is the type of property.
For example, if the value of the stolen goods or property is less than $1,000, the charge might only be for misdemeanor larceny.
But there are always exceptions and other things to consider.
If the stolen property is a firearm, even if it's valued at less than $1,000, the State may be able to obtain a True Bill of Indictment for felony larceny in North Carolina.
Similarly, the type of alleged victim can make a difference too.
If you steal goods or personal property from a private party and the value of the stolen goods is less than $1,000, once again, that may turn out to be misdemeanor larceny.
But if you steal from your employer, that type of criminal charge may be something called Felony Larceny by an Employee or Embezzlement.
If you use force or the threat of force to steal something, that might amount to robbery, which is a felony.
Embezzlement in North Carolina is also a felony criminal charge. So is Larceny by an Employee.
There is also another type of felony larceny charge that is called Habitual Misdemeanor Larceny.
It can all get pretty complicated and confusing if you don't have a lawyer standing by your side in court.
That's one reason we think it's a good idea to hire an experienced criminal lawyer in Monroe NC to help explain your charges and your legal options.
The "Essential Elements" of a Larceny Charge in North Carolina If you stand accused of larceny charges, we think it's best to speak with Union County NC criminal defense attorney right away.
Don't wait.
Remember, the State (the Assistant District Attorney at the District Attorney's Office" carries the Burden of Proof.
They must prove the prima facie elements of the offense.
Criminal Defense Lawyers may refer to those as the "essential elements" or the "first facts of the case."
The legal standard for criminal charges requires Proof Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.
Those essential elements include things like:
- You took the personal property that belongs to someone else
- You "carried away" the personal property
- You took the property without the owner's (the victim's) consent (you did not have the owner's permission)
- You planned to permanently deprive the owner of the personal property (deprive the owner/victim of its use forever/permanently)
- You did not take the property by mistake, thinking it was either yours or it was OK to take
- You knew the property was not yours, and you were not entitled to take the personal property
Here's more information about some of the different types of theft and larceny charges in North Carolina:
What is Grand Larceny? What is Petty Larceny? Grand Larceny and Petty Larceny are somewhat old-fashioned terms for the different types of Larceny in North Carolina.
The theft laws in North Carolina are now specifically set out in the Criminal Laws, the General Statutes.
"Lawyers, Judges, and Prosecutors don't really use the terms 'petty larceny' or 'grand theft larceny' anymore. We now rely on the statutory definitions when describing the different types of larceny charges."
- Bill Powers, Monroe NC Larceny Defense Attorney
What is Larceny by an Employee? Crimes involving theft of company or employer property may involve a felony charge of Larceny by Employee.
Such offenses involve abusing your position of trust.
Taking (stealing) the property of your employer, while you're at work or your place of employment, with the intent to steal that personal property, may result in Larceny by Employee charges.
It does not matter if the personal property of the employer is worth more than or less than $1,000.
Stealing or taking something of any value from your employer may be indicted as a felony charge.
If you're convicted of Embezzlement or Larceny by Employee, and the theft involves $100,000 or more, that can be an extremely serious felony charge in North Carolina and may be classified as a Class C felony, which is a higher class felony than even armed robbery!
If the value of the stolen property is less than $100,000, that may be classified as a Class H felony.
Listen to Our Podcast - Embezzlement in North Carolina - Crimes of Theft and Dishonesty
Here's What We Think is Important for You to Consider - The Powers Law Firm PA Criminal Defense Attorneys, understand the potentially severe consequences of a larceny conviction
- It's a good idea to retain legal counsel during the Pre-Arrest Investigation if you can
- Our experienced team works hard to prepare comprehensive defenses to challenge potential arguments presented by prosecutors, obviously when possible and based on the allegations of the individual/unique fact pattern
- We are committed to listening to our clients and guiding you through this difficult time with compassion and honesty
- You should hire an attorney if you have been accused of stealing in Union County NC, we can explain the charges against you, what the prosecutor has to prove, the possible penalties upon conviction, and explore the options available at each stage of your case
Understanding Larceny and the Consequences of a Conviction Larceny, also commonly known as theft, is a serious crime in North Carolina. As we've discussed, being convicted of larceny can result in severe punishments that can include jail time and fines in certain circumstances.
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney can be a key part of building strong defenses when facing larceny charges.
What is Larceny? Larceny is the illegal taking and carrying away of the personal property of another person without consent or authorization with the intent to deprive them permanently of the property.
It is considered a form of theft and can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor depending on the value stolen and other factors as set forth in the NC Criminal Laws.
There are different types of larceny charges that can occur, including stealing from businesses, homes, and motor vehicles, shoplifting from stores, or even stealing identities or money through forgery or fraud.
Powers Law Firm - Criminal Defense Attorneys in Union County NC When facing criminal charges such as larceny, it’s important to have experienced legal representation who understand the complexities involved with these cases.
Powers Law Firm has an experienced team with extensive knowledge of criminal defense law and a reputation in the legal community for hard work, compassion, and zealous advocacy on behalf of clients.
"We work diligently to build strong defenses for our clients throughout each step of the process. Our attorneys are dedicated to providing honest guidance and listening skills, so our clients know they have the support they need while navigating their legal situation."
- Bill Powers, Monroe Larceny Defense Lawyers
With our professional background and proven track record, we strive to obtain favorable outcomes on behalf of our clients.
Obviously, each case is different, as is each fact pattern. We think it's important to carefully consider your legal options, especially in light of the strengths and weaknesses of the State's case.
Being charged with any type of larceny, felony or misdemeanor, is not the same thing as a conviction.
The State carries the Burden of Proof.
Your case and your future deserve attention to detail and compassionate representation by a criminal defense lawyer who possesses substantial real-world courtroom experience.
"I've been helping clients with accused of theft crimes and criminal charges in Union County for years. I firmly believe there is no substitute for the jury trial experience that comes with an experienced attorney and understanding the need to meet people at their point of need."
- Bill Powers, Larceny Defense Lawyer Union County NC
At this trying time, we understand how important it is for our clients to know that their interests and needs are being taken care of.
We believe in delivering honest and compassionate solutions to all of our clients.
Our commitment to listening closely to each situation and responding with thoughtful consideration ensures our clients receive suitable guidance from us during this difficult period.
From every client interaction, we strive to establish strong relationships built on trust and mutual understanding.
How Our Lawyers Help With Larceny Charges in Monroe NC If you have been accused of stealing in Union County or other theft crimes, it is strongly recommended that you hire an experienced attorney to help with your case, even if it's your first offense.
A lawyer can explain the charges against you, why the prosecutor's office needs to prove a certain thing based on those charges, and what potential penalties exist should you be found guilty of the alleged offense.
Your attorney will also explore any available options at each stage of your case process, including considering plea deals or fighting for an acquittal at trial.
We help clients with legal matters involving:
- Shoplifting Charges
- Stealing Property - Theft Crime
- Class 1 Misdemeanor Offenses
- Class H Felony Charges
- Anti Shoplifting Device Allegations
- Misdemeanor Larceny - Formerly Known as "Petty Theft" or "Petit Larceny"
- Theft of Motor Fuel
Helpful Information About Criminal Charges