#1: Seek Legal Counsel
If you find yourself accused of or arrested on theft charges in Virginia, seeking legal representation without delay is strongly recommended. In Virginia, theft charges can range from misdemeanor larceny to felony charges. Regardless of the specific charges you face, theft allegations should always be taken seriously, as a conviction can wreak havoc on your life and future.
A defense attorney can provide a range of services to those facing theft charges, including:
- Analyzing the charges and evidence against you to identify flaws or weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Advising you on your rights and potential courses of action, whether that's a plea deal or going to trial.
- Negotiating with prosecutors to potentially reduce the severity of the charges or the penalties you face.
- Representing you in court, ensuring that you receive a fair trial.
Do not underestimate the importance of expert legal assistance when facing theft charges in Virginia. Keep reading to learn more.
Common Types of Theft Charges in Virginia
In Virginia, theft charges encompass a variety of crimes, each with its own set of penalties and legal implications. Understanding these common theft charges can provide insight into how to approach your case. Together with your attorney, we encourage you to discuss how your case fits in with the contexts of Virginia criminal law and legal precedence.
My law firm has handled a wide range of theft cases, including those involving:
- Shoplifting
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Embezzlement
- Grand Theft
- Grand Larceny
- Financial Fraud
#2: Remain Silent
If you are under investigation, accused of, or arrested on theft charges, one of your most powerful rights is the right to remain silent. This right is a way to help protect yourself from inadvertently incriminating yourself during interactions with store personnel, law enforcement, and prosecutors.
Exercising this right extends beyond remaining silent during formal interrogations; it also means refraining from discussing your case with family, friends, acquaintances, or any other individuals who might be pulled into the matter.
Two Reasons Why You Should Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent
- Self-Protection: Conversations can be misinterpreted or misremembered. By remaining silent, you could help protect yourself from having words spoken in the heat of the moment used against you in court.
- Legal Strategy: Any information you share outside this privileged relationship may compromise your legal position.
Immediately after being accused or arrested, inform law enforcement that you wish to remain silent and request to speak to an attorney.
#3: Avoid Social Media
In today’s interconnected world, sharing your experiences and feelings on social media may feel natural. However, if you face theft charges, it is crucial to refrain from posting anything related to your case—or your situation in general—online.
Key reasons why avoiding social media is a good idea include:
- Public Admissibility: Anything you post on social media can be admitted into court as evidence. Prosecutors can and will scour your profiles for any content that might be construed as an admission of guilt, or that could otherwise undermine your credibility or defense strategy.
- Misinterpretation: Comments, photos, or your online activities could be taken out of context and used against you. Innocent posts can be interpreted in ways you might not expect, casting doubt on your character or contradicting your defense.
- Investigative Leads: Law enforcement agencies increasingly use social media to investigate suspects. Your posts, location check-ins, or connections may complicate your legal situation.
- Influencing Public Opinion: Although public opinion is not a direct factor in the legal outcome of a case, an unfavorable public perception can indirectly affect the proceedings. High-profile cases, in particular, face the court of public opinion, where social media narratives can become problematic.
Always consult your defense attorney before making any public statements or engaging on social media platforms while your case is active.
If you were accused of theft or arrested for theft, reach out to Andrew J. Cornick, Attorney at Law, to schedule a consultation. I am prepared to help.