Charged with Larceny in Massachusetts? We Can Help.

Being arrested for larceny can be both embarrassing and life-altering. Whether it’s a minor shoplifting offense or a major felony charge involving stolen property, a conviction can result in criminal penalties, restitution, and a permanent criminal record—all of which can impact your future employment, housing, and reputation.

At Briones Law Group, we have extensive experience defending clients against a wide range of larceny and theft-related charges. We understand how these cases are prosecuted in Massachusetts courts and how to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome.

What Is Larceny in Massachusetts?
Under Massachusetts General Laws, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. Unlike many states that have consolidated theft-related offenses into one general theft statute, Massachusetts maintains separate classifications for larceny.

You may be charged with larceny for:

• Shoplifting
• Stealing a car
• Pickpocketing or purse snatching
• Passing a bad check or using fraudulent payment
• Attempting to take another person’s property unlawfully

Even attempting to steal—without successfully completing the act—can result in criminal charges. That’s why it’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately if you’ve been accused.

Types of Larceny Charges in Massachusetts

Grand Larceny
Grand larceny is a felony offense and applies when the value of the property allegedly stolen exceeds $250. This may include money, electronics, jewelry, vehicles, or other valuable property. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that:

• The defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property
• The value of the property exceeds $250
• The property was taken without consent

The value of the property plays a critical role in the outcome of the case. Police and prosecutors often rely on estimates, receipts, or assumptions about an item’s worth—many of which are subject to dispute. At Briones Law Group, we carefully examine these claims and frequently argue for reduction of charges by challenging the accuracy of these valuations.

Grand larceny is punishable by state prison time, significant fines, and a felony record.

Petty Larceny
Petty larceny, sometimes referred to as larceny under $250, is a misdemeanor and involves the theft of lower-value items. This typically includes shoplifting, stealing from a person, or taking non-valuable property such as small electronics or clothing.

Although the penalties for petty larceny are less severe than felony charges, a conviction can still result in:

• Jail time
• Probation
• Community service
• Restitution to the victim
• A permanent criminal record

Even misdemeanor theft charges can have long-lasting consequences on your personal and professional life. That’s why having an experienced Massachusetts larceny attorney on your side is critical.

How Briones Law Group Can Help
Larceny cases often rely on witness testimony, video surveillance, store records, and property valuations. We will carefully review every detail of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument and build a strong defense.

Our team can:

• Challenge the estimated value of the property in grand larceny cases
• Argue for dismissal or reduction of charges when evidence is weak or improperly obtained
• Explore pre-trial diversion, probationary alternatives, or first-time offender programs
• Protect your rights during all court hearings and plea negotiations
• Work toward expungement or sealing of records, when possible

Protect Your Future—Don’t Face These Charges Alone
If you’ve been charged with larceny in Massachusetts, time is of the essence. The earlier you involve a knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer, the better your chances of minimizing penalties or avoiding a conviction altogether.

Contact Briones Law Group today to schedule a case evaluation. Let us help you understand your options and build a solid defense strategy to protect your reputation, freedom, and future.