What Should I Do If I’ve Been Arrested and Charged with Grand Larceny?

Prosecutors in Virginia take theft crimes seriously. This includes grand larceny. As a result, if you are facing grand larceny charges, they should not be taken lightly. The charges or a conviction could substantially impact your life. If you are convicted of grand larceny, you could face prison time, financial penalties, and other consequences that continue to impact you after you’ve served your time and paid your fines.

What Is Grand Larceny?

Under Virginia law, grand larceny is a felony offense that occurs when one of the following happens:

• Goods, property, or money valued at five dollars or more are directly taken from another person.
• Items valued at $1,000 or more are indirectly taken from another person.
• A firearm is indirectly taken from someone, regardless of the value of the firearm.

In some cases, grand larceny can result in a misdemeanor offense. For example, if the goods taken are worth slightly over $1,000 or less, the court may choose to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor.

How to Preserve Your Rights

You must preserve your legal rights if you are arrested for and charged with a theft crime. You can do this by:

Remaining silent

When arrested, you have the right to remain silent. Failing to stay quiet until your attorney arrives can lead to you saying something the prosecution could use against you at trial.

Retaining a criminal defense attorney

Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is vital when you’ve been charged with a theft crime. Sometimes, you may qualify for a public defender, but you should still contact a private attorney. Private attorneys have more time to spend on your case than busy public defenders might, meaning they can work harder on building a strong defense for you.

Gathering evidence to support your defense

To build a strong defense, your attorney must collect and review all evidence against you and determine what could be used in support of your defense. For example, if someone can testify that you were nowhere near the crime scene, it could lead to your case getting dismissed.

Being honest with your attorney

You should be honest about the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, even if you think it makes you look guilty. This may include prior criminal history, involvement in the alleged grand larceny, and other relevant information. Your attorney will use this information to build you the most vigorous defense.

Considering your options

Depending on your case, you may have various options for resolving your charges. Your attorney can advise you whether you have the option of trying to obtain a plea deal. They could also discuss whether there’s any possibility that the charges could be dismissed altogether. Not all options will sound great, but discussing them with your attorney can ensure you’re working toward the best outcome.

Preparing for trial

If you decide to take your case to trial, you must be prepared. For the best defense, you should put your case in the hands of an experienced criminal law attorney. Your attorney will work to build the most solid defense possible in your case and prepare witnesses. They can prepare you to testify if you both agree you should do so, and advise you about how the entire process works. Your attorney can give you peace of mind about going to court.

Contact Shannon & Associates, P.C. for Help Today

At Shannon & Associates, P.C., we understand the stress and fear that surrounds being charged with a crime. With our knowledge and experience, we could reduce that stress by helping you through the legal process and building a solid defense. So, if you have been arrested for or charged with grand larceny, contact us today at (757) 228-5529. We’re ready to help.