Charged With a Theft Crime in Massachusetts? 

We Defend Your Record, Your Freedom, and Your Future.

Whether it’s a misunderstanding, false accusation, or one-time mistake, being charged with a theft crime in Massachusetts can have serious consequences. You could be facing jail time, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record that affects your job, your housing, and your reputation.

At DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C., we defend clients across Massachusetts against larceny, shoplifting, credit card fraud, embezzlement, receiving stolen property, and other theft-related charges. We know how to investigate these cases, fight the evidence, and protect your future.

Theft Crimes We Defend in Massachusetts

We handle a wide range of theft-related charges, including:

• Larceny by stealing (over or under $1,200)
• Shoplifting
• Receiving stolen property
• Larceny from a building or person
• Theft by false pretenses or fraud
• Credit card fraud and identity theft
• Embezzlement and employee theft
• Motor vehicle theft
• Burglary, robbery, and breaking and entering (handled separately)

Whether you're accused of pocketing merchandise, misusing funds at work, or being in possession of stolen goods, we’ll tailor a defense to fit the charge and the facts.

Massachusetts Theft Crime Penalties

The severity of the charge often depends on the value of the item(s) and your criminal record.

Common Consequences:

• Larceny under $1,200: misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail
• Larceny over $1,200: felony, up to 5 years in prison
• Shoplifting: civil penalties or criminal charges depending on value
• Restitution to the alleged victim
• Probation, community service, or mandatory theft courses
• Criminal record (CORI) visible to employers, landlords, licensing boards

We fight to avoid convictions and minimize the damage to your record and reputation.

How We Defend Theft Charges in Massachusetts

Our approach is strategic and evidence-driven. Common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the identification of the accused
• Arguing lack of intent to permanently deprive the owner
• Showing that the property was not actually stolen or belonged to you
• Demonstrating mistaken ownership, accident, or misunderstanding
• Suppressing illegally obtained evidence (searches, surveillance, statements)
• Negotiating CWOFs, pretrial probation, or restitution-only outcomes

In first-time or low-value cases, we often push for diversion or dismissal to protect your clean record.

FAQs – Theft Charges in Massachusetts

What if the item was returned or recovered?
That may help your case. While it doesn’t undo the charge, it can impact sentencing or support a reduced plea or dismissal.

Will this stay on my record forever?
Only if you’re convicted. We aim to resolve cases through dismissals, CWOFs, or sealing whenever possible.

Can I go to jail for a first offense?
Technically, yes. But for many first-time, non-violent theft charges, we can often resolve the case without jail—or without a conviction at all.

Let’s Keep This From Following You for Years

One accusation shouldn’t define your future. Whether you made a mistake or you’re being falsely accused, we’ll fight to protect your rights and help you move forward.

 Call DeGiacomo & Mikhlin, P.C. today for a free consultation Or fill out our contact form and we’ll get in touch promptly

We defend theft cases in courts throughout Massachusetts—from small towns to major cities—with the skill and discretion you need.