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You may feel the terms are interchangeable when thinking of theft and robbery. However, there are many forms of theft — theft by conversion, theft by deception, theft by extortion, and theft by taking, for example. In Georgia, theft by taking is known as larceny, the most common form.
What is Larceny?
Larceny is the taking of someone’s property or services. The property can be personal (someone’s belongings) or actual (such as land). Stealing someone’s services is when someone does not pay for the services used. It is not considered theft if you are at least a partial property owner.
Theft can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the item's value. If the item was valued at $500 or less, the theft would be a misdemeanor. Theft of more than $500 is usually a felony, but a judge can reduce the charge to a misdemeanor.
Misdemeanor theft is punishable by a fine of up to $1,000 and imprisonment of up to 12 months. Felony theft is punishable by a fine of up to $100,000 and imprisonment of one to ten years.
In addition to those punishments, victims can pursue civil charges against the alleged offender. That could include:
- Compensatory Damages: You will receive damages for the value of the property taken and any other loss correlated to the theft.
- Liquidated Exemplary Damages: You can receive damages for up to twice the value of the property taken (as long as the value is less than $5,000).
- Lawyer Fees and Court Costs
Atlanta Theft Crime Lawyers
The Atlanta theft crime lawyers at The Abt Law Firm, LLC want to help you if you’ve been charged with theft. No matter the theft charge you face, our attorneys are here to fight for you. Let us discuss your case during a free consultation — reach out today online or by calling (678) 582-2272.