Classifications and Punishments for Larceny

In Michigan, criminal laws refer to theft as larceny. When a person commits larceny in Michigan, that person is stealing property that belongs to another individual. This property could be money, receipts, goods, real estate deeds, public records, and much more. If you are facing theft charges in Michigan, your penalty will depend on how much was stolen and the circumstances surrounding the crime. 

At The Law Offices of Bradley J. Friedman, our defense lawyers are highly experienced in successfully representing clients charged with larceny. We can help you understand the charges against you, and your legal options.

Larceny Offenses in Michigan

Like most states, Michigan classifies larceny offenses as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the dollar value of the property that was stolen and sometimes based on the circumstances surrounding the theft. 

• Misdemeanor Larceny: Misdemeanor theft is divided into two categories – petty theft and second-degree theft. Petty theft is the theft of services or goods valued at less than $200. It is punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a fine of not more than $500. Second-degree larceny is when the theft of services or goods is valued between $200 and $1,000. Second-degree larceny in Michigan may be punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine not to exceed $2,000.
• Felony Larceny: Just like misdemeanor larceny, felony larceny is divided into two levels. People who are charged with theft of services or goods valued between $1,000 and $20,000 can be sentenced to up to five years in prison and a fine not to exceed $10,000. Felony larceny charges also apply to the theft of trailers, motor vehicles, and motor vehicle parts, even if the vehicles or parts are not valued at more than $1,000. Second-degree felony larceny applies when the services or goods stolen are valued over $20,000. This crime is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of as much as $15,000.

How Prior Convictions Affect Larceny Penalties

When a defendant has previously been convicted of a larceny offense, any subsequent conviction can carry a penalty that is one degree of severity higher than the offense with which they are being charged. For example, if a person is accused of petty theft for goods less than $200, but has been convicted of larceny before, then that person could receive a penalty for second-degree larceny instead. 

Have a Good Criminal Defense Attorney on Your Side

If you’ve been charged with larceny, understanding the law is only one step in building a successful defense. In order to beat the charges, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side is your best option. 

The criminal defense attorneys at The Law Offices of Bradley J. Friedman can review your case and develop a solid defense strategy. Our team has decades of experience representing defendants in a variety of criminal cases, including larceny. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. You can have peace of mind knowing that we will use every possible tactic available under the law to protect your rights.