Theft Crime Attorney in Las Vegas

Theft is one of the most commonly charged offenses in Las Vegas. Theft or larceny is a serious offense that can prevent you from obtaining meaningful employment if convicted. If you are arrested or charged with any theft crime, you need to speak with an attorney about your rights.

At Rasmussen Law, we work diligently to protect the rights of our clients. We proudly represent clients throughout Las Vegas and the surrounding areas. Our theft crime attorneys have extensive experience defending against crimes of all magnitudes. Even if you do not believe that your case is serious, the penalties are real and have long-lasting consequences. 

If you were arrested or charged with a theft crime in Las Vegas, contact our office at (702) 807-6231 to schedule a free, confidential case consultation. 

Petit vs. Grand Larceny

Theft crimes are primarily divided into two categories in Nevada, petit larceny and grand larceny. Petit larceny, codified under the Nevada Revised Statutes § 205.240, refers to the intentional stealing or taking away of property valued at less than $1200. Grand larceny refers to the stealing or taking away of property valued at $1200 or more. 

Goods that may qualify under petit and grand larceny include:

• Personal goods or property
• Bedding and furniture
• Real property
• Domesticated animals and birds

Petit and grand larceny can both lead to severe penalties. It is in your best interest to consult with an attorney before accepting a plea deal. You may be agreeing to a harsher punishment than is necessary. 

Penalties for Petit Larceny

Under most circumstances, a petit larceny will be charged as a misdemeanor offense. In addition to other penalties, you may have to make restitution. The property’s value in any larceny offense is determined by the “highest value attributable to the property by any reasonable standard.”

Penalties for Grand Larceny

The penalties for grand larceny are determined by the value of the property. The more valuable the property, the more severe the punishment.

Penalties for grand larceny include:

• If the property value is under $5,000, the crime is punishable as a category D felony. If convicted of a category D felony, a person may face one to four years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.

• If the property is worth $5,000 or more but under $25,000, it may be punished as a category C felony, punishable by one to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

• If the property is valued at $25,000 or more but under $100,000, it may be punishable as a category B felony. If convicted, it would result in a prison sentence of one to ten years and a fine of up to $10,000.

• If the property stolen is valued at $100,000 or more, it is punishable as a category B felony and a prison sentence of one to 20 years,

The penalties for grand theft are steep, which is why you must consult with an attorney as early in the process as possible. Without the help of a lawyer, you will likely spend a large amount of time behind bars. 

Aggravating Factors in a Theft Case

There are several factors or circumstances that can increase your punishment, Many of them are based on who the alleged victim is. For instance, if the property belongs to an elderly person or a child, it may increase the amount of jail a person will receive. 

A prosecutor may also seek the more serious charge of robbery if the alleged theft was taken directly from the person. Robbery or larceny from the person may be charged when threats or force are used to take something from another person. 

Defenses in Theft Cases

There are several defenses that can be applied during theft or larceny cases. It is imperative to consult with an attorney to determine which defense may be used in your case. 

Common defenses in theft cases may include:

• Mistaken identity
• Invalid search and seizure
• Lawful possession
• Lack of intent
• Insufficient evidence

Theft is a crime that can directly impact your employment upon conviction. It is considered a crime of moral turpitude. Many companies have policies requiring an employee to immediately notify them of a conviction for a crime of moral turpitude. It may also make it more challenging to obtain employment in the future without sealing your criminal record because of the stigma associated with a theft conviction. 

Arrested for a Theft Crime in Las Vegas? Contact Our Office.

Were you arrested for a theft or larceny crime in Las Vegas? Contact our office at (702) 807-6231 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Our legal team will help you understand your rights and will fight to ensure you receive the best possible outcome in your case. Do not enter a plea without first speaking to an attorney. Protect your rights and your freedom.