Larceny Over $1,200 in Massachusetts

Larceny over $1,200 is a serious offense in Massachusetts, classified as a felony under state law. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including significant fines, imprisonment, and the creation of a permanent criminal record that may follow you for the rest of your life. Such consequences can disrupt your career, housing opportunities, and personal relationships.

At Cappetta Law Offices, Attorney Daniel Cappetta, a former prosecutor and experienced Framingham Larceny Over $1,200 Lawyer, provides strategic and effective legal representation to individuals facing these charges. Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.

Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30, larceny is defined as the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. When the value of the property exceeds $1,200, the charge is elevated to a felony. Common examples of larceny over $1,200 include theft of high-value items such as jewelry, electronics, or vehicles. Misappropriation of funds through embezzlement or fraud, stealing expensive workplace equipment, and shoplifting goods worth more than $1,200 are also examples.

Each larceny case is unique, and the prosecution must prove specific elements to secure a conviction. These elements include demonstrating that the defendant unlawfully took property belonging to another person, did so without the owner’s consent, and intended to permanently deprive the owner of their property. If any of these elements cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, the case may be dismissed.

A felony conviction for larceny over $1,200 carries harsh penalties. If convicted, you could face up to five years in state prison or up to two and a half years in a house of correction if the case is prosecuted in district court. Additionally, fines of up to $25,000 may be imposed. Restitution orders, which require defendants to repay the value of the stolen property, are also common. Beyond the immediate penalties, a felony conviction can severely damage your personal and professional reputation, limit job opportunities, and make housing applications more difficult.

The collateral consequences of a felony conviction highlight the importance of mounting a strong defense. Experienced legal representation is crucial to minimizing the impact of these charges on your life.

A robust defense begins with a thorough examination of the prosecution’s case. Attorney Daniel Cappetta carefully reviews the evidence, including police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements, to uncover weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s argument. For instance, if there is no clear intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property, the charges may not stand. Similarly, disputes over ownership or mistaken identity can be critical to building a defense.

Procedural errors, such as unlawful searches or violations of your rights during the investigation, can result in the suppression of evidence. Attorney Cappetta’s background as a former prosecutor provides him with insight into how the state builds its cases, allowing him to anticipate and counter their strategies effectively. As a Framingham lawyer with experience in Larceny over $1,200 cases he can help you handle your case for the best possible outcome.

When a trial is not in your best interest, negotiation can lead to favorable outcomes. Restitution agreements or reduced charges are often possible, particularly for first-time offenders or cases involving mitigating circumstances. Attorney Cappetta’s experience in negotiating with prosecutors can help achieve resolutions that avoid the harshest penalties.

Massachusetts courts recognize that not all defendants benefit from traditional penalties. For first-time offenders, pretrial probation programs may allow charges to be dismissed upon completing conditions such as community service, counseling, or restitution. Another option is a Continuation Without a Finding (CWOF), where the defendant admits that sufficient evidence exists but does not plead guilty. If the defendant meets the court’s requirements, the case is dismissed without a formal conviction.

These alternatives are invaluable for preserving your record and avoiding the long-term consequences of a felony conviction. Attorney Cappetta works tirelessly to explore these options and secure the best possible outcome for his clients.

Attorney Daniel Cappetta’s extensive experience as a Framingham Larceny Over $1,200 Lawyer and former prosecutor sets him apart in defending theft-related charges. He brings a unique perspective to each case, understanding the prosecution’s strategies and leveraging that knowledge to build a strong defense. Whether by negotiating alternative resolutions or aggressively advocating in court, Attorney Cappetta is committed to achieving the best results for his clients.

Conveniently located in Framingham, Cappetta Law Offices is dedicated to providing personalized legal representation. From the initial consultation to the resolution of your case, our firm ensures you are informed and supported every step of the way.

If you’ve been charged with larceny over $1,200 in Massachusetts, don’t face these charges alone. Attorney Daniel Cappetta is an experienced advocate who will fight to protect your rights and minimize the impact of these charges on your life.

Call Cappetta Law Offices today at (508) 762-4540 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us provide the guidance and defense you need to move forward with confidence.