Wayland Shoplifting & Larceny Defense Lawyer

Being charged with larceny or shoplifting in Wayland, MA can have serious consequences. A conviction can lead to jail time, expensive fines, and a permanent criminal record. Even if it's a first-time offense, a theft charge can impact your job opportunities, college applications, and background checks.

At our firm, we understand how to fight theft charges in Framingham District Court and will work aggressively to protect your rights, build a strong defense, and seek a case dismissal whenever possible.

📞 Arrested for Larceny or Shoplifting in Wayland? Call (857) 229-2442 for a Free Consultation.

Understanding Larceny & Shoplifting Under Massachusetts Law

Larceny (Mass. General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30)
Larceny is the unlawful taking of another person's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances surrounding the case.

Shoplifting (Mass. General Laws Chapter 266, Section 30A)
Shoplifting involves stealing from a retail store or attempting to deceive a store into giving you an item for free or at a lower price. Massachusetts law allows store owners to detain suspected shoplifters and press criminal charges.

Common shoplifting methods include:

• Concealing items in clothing or bags.
• Switching price tags to pay a lower amount.
• Fraudulently returning stolen goods for store credit.
• Under-ringing items at self-checkout stations.

Criminal Penalties for Larceny & Shoplifting in Massachusetts

Shoplifting Penalties

• Under $250 (First Offense) – Civil fine, possible dismissal.
• Under $250 (Second Offense) – Up to 1 year in jail and $500 fine.
• Over $250 – Misdemeanor larceny charges apply.

Larceny Penalties

• Larceny under $1,200 – Misdemeanor charge, up to 1 year in jail.
• Larceny over $1,200 – Felony charge, up to 5 years in prison.
• Repeat offenses can lead to harsher sentencing and longer probation periods.

Statute of Limitations for Larceny & Shoplifting in Massachusetts

The law limits the time prosecutors have to file charges:

• Misdemeanor larceny/shoplifting: 6 years.
• Felony larceny (over $1,200): 10 years.

If too much time has passed, your Wayland theft lawyer may be able to get the case dismissed.

Defenses Against Larceny & Shoplifting Charges in Wayland

Having an experienced Wayland criminal defense attorney can help you fight the charges using various legal defenses:

• No Intent to Steal – The item was taken by accident or with permission.
• Mistaken Identity – Wrongfully accused due to faulty security footage or witness errors.
• Insufficient Evidence – The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Illegal Search & Seizure – If evidence was obtained illegally, it can be thrown out.
• Coerced Confession – If police pressured you into admitting guilt, your lawyer can challenge it.
• Diversion Programs – First-time offenders may qualify for dismissal.

Wayland District Court Information

If you have been charged with larceny or shoplifting in Wayland, your case will be heard at:

📍 Framingham District Court
Address: 600 Concord Street, Framingham, MA 01702
Phone: (508) 875-7461

Having a Wayland theft defense lawyer familiar with this court can greatly improve your chances of a successful defense.

Why Choose Our Wayland Larceny & Shoplifting Defense Firm?

• Decades of Experience Defending Theft Cases
• Aggressive Defense Strategies for Larceny & Shoplifting
• Track Record of Case Dismissals & Reduced Charges
• Extensive Knowledge of Framingham District Court Procedures
• 24/7 Availability for Legal Assistance

Call a Wayland Larceny & Shoplifting Lawyer Today

A larceny or shoplifting charge doesn't have to ruin your life. With the right legal strategy, you may be able to avoid jail time, reduce fines, or even get your charges dropped.

📞 Call (857) 229-2442 for a free case evaluation today.

We are ready to fight for you!