In Virginia, larceny refers to “the unlawful taking or carrying away of someone else’s personal property with the intent to deprive the owner of it permanently.” Larceny, whether in the form of theft, shoplifting or another crime against property, is an offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the money or goods in question and whether the property was taken off a person.

Many people are concerned about the impact of a larceny conviction on their future or their child’s future. All adult larceny convictions in Virginia will remain on a person’s permanent criminal record forever. Any larceny conviction can affect immigration status and may cause deportation or denial or status. Larceny crimes also carry severe social stigma and have a very negative effect on education and job applications in addition to the possibility of serious jail time.