Westwood and Dedham Theft Lawyer
If you have been arrested or charged with theft or receiving stolen property, it is important to have an aggressive defense lawyer on your side. With our extensive experience and a 98% success rate, the Law Office of Philip L. Arnel will persevere to obtain a favorable disposition in your case. Contact Massachusetts theft attorney Arnel for a free initial consultation. Theft attorney Philip Arnel has an exceptional record defending against various felony and misdemeanor theft charges, such as:
- Robbery: burglary, armed robbery, breaking and entering
- Fraud: credit card fraud, identity theft, mail fraud
- Car theft: grand theft, auto theft, car jacking
- Larceny: grand larceny, petty larceny, shoplifting
- Other theft and property crimes: trespassing, vandalizing school property, arson
Contact a Westwood/Dedham theft lawyer at the Law Office of Philip L. Arnel.
Relentless Theft Defense Attorney
We believe that the key to success in defending against criminal charges is relentless perseverance and thorough preparation. By adhering to these defense tactics, we have obtained reduced charges, minimized sentences, alternate sentences, dismissed charges, acquittals and other favorable results for clients in Massachusetts. Although he has effectively negotiated settlements for many clients, Philip Arnel is also a strong litigator and is never afraid of pursuing a successful verdict at trial.
FAQ About Theft Charges In Massachusetts
If you are facing theft-related charges in Massachusetts, you need clarity about how the law distinguishes between different offenses and how prosecutors evaluate the facts of each case. The following information addresses common concerns you may face when trying to understand how to defend yourself.
What is the difference between larceny, robbery and burglary under Massachusetts law?
In Massachusetts, larceny involves taking and carrying away someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Robbery is a more serious offense because it includes the use or threat of force during the taking, even if the amount or value of property involved is small.
Burglary is different from both because it focuses on entering a dwelling or building without permission with the intent to commit a crime inside. You can face burglary charges, regardless of whether anything is actually stolen. Each offense carries distinct elements, and prosecutors must prove them beyond a reasonable doubt.
How does Massachusetts determine the “value” of allegedly stolen property?
Massachusetts typically uses the item’s fair market value to determine whether a theft is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Fair market value refers to the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller for the item at the time and place of the alleged offense. If fair market value is difficult to establish, courts may consider reasonable replacement costs, especially for items that are older, customized or no longer sold new.
The value of the property matters because it directly affects the potential penalties and charge level.
Can multiple theft incidents be combined to increase the charge level in Massachusetts?
Yes. In some situations, prosecutors may aggregate the value of property taken in separate incidents if they can show the acts were part of a single, ongoing scheme or shared a common plan. This can elevate what would otherwise be several lower level offenses into a more serious charge based on the combined value.
Courts look closely at timing, intent and the relationship between the incidents to determine whether aggregation is appropriate. An attorney can challenge these attempts by arguing that the events were isolated or lacked a unified purpose.
Contact An Experienced Theft Lawyer
Whether you have been charged with misdemeanor shoplifting or felony theft, the Law Office of Philip L. Arnel will relentlessly pursue a successful outcome. We will strive to protect your rights, record, reputation and freedom. Contact a Dedham/Westwood theft attorney for a free initial consultation.