Skip to main content
Edit Page - Admin Only Style Guide - Admin Only Control Panel - Admin Only

Optional announcement area lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur adipiscing.

Seattle:

Eastside:

Theft and Larceny

practice-areas-tal

Theft and Larceny can be either a Felony or a Gross Misdemeanor in the State of Washington.

Theft and larceny, in essence, is the unlawful taking of something from someone else. A Theft or Larceny becomes a Robbery when the use of physical force or threatened use of physical force occurs in the commission of the Theft/ Larceny. In essence, Robbery is a form of aggravated Larceny in Washington State; it can include a combination of Assault and/or Battery, plus Larceny.

Prosecutors often charge an individual with the crime of Robbery even though in reality the act resembles a Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Theft (shoplifting) or a Larceny incident. Convictions for Robbery, Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Theft (shoplifting), and/or Larceny can dramatically affect one’s future employment and credit history because these types of crimes are considered “crimes of dishonesty“; these types of charges can carry huge penalties, including significant fines and jail/ prison time.

It is important, therefore, when faced with a criminal charge like Theft or Larceny to find a hard-hitting, skilled and experienced criminal defense attorney who can effectively and aggressively fight for your rights and interests. SQ Attorneys is that hard-hitting, highly skilled and experienced criminal defense firm that is extremely effective at getting its clients the best and most just and equitable result possible, so as to ensure the least amount of impact on their personal and professional lives.


No. While other states may define 'larceny' differently, Washington State law combines offenses, including larceny, under the single, broad category of 'theft.'

Retail theft or shoplifting, theft of a firearm, motor vehicle theft, and possession of stolen property are all examples of 'theft' in Washington State.

Yes. You could be looking at up to 364 days in jail for a Third Degree Theft conviction and up to 10 years in prison for First Degree.

Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. You have the right to remain silent. Avoid signing paperwork from the security or loss prevention staff at a retail location and do not admit guilt. Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.