Simple English definitions for legal terms
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Grand theft is when someone takes something that doesn't belong to them with the intention of keeping it forever. It's worse than taking something small, which is called petty theft. The difference between grand and petty theft is usually based on how much the stolen item is worth. In some states, stealing certain things like cars, guns, or drugs can also be considered grand theft, even if they're not worth a lot of money. The punishment for grand theft depends on how much the stolen item is worth, with more severe charges leading to longer sentences.
Grand theft, also known as grand larceny, is a serious crime where someone takes something that doesn't belong to them with the intention of keeping it permanently. It's worse than petty theft, which is when someone steals something of lesser value.
The difference between grand theft and petty theft is usually determined by the value of the stolen property. In most states, grand theft is when the stolen property is worth more than a certain amount, usually between $1,000 and $5,000. However, in some states, grand theft can also occur if certain types of property are stolen, like cars, guns, or drugs, even if they're not worth that much.
For example, in California, grand theft is when someone steals something worth more than $950, or if they steal a car, gun, or fish from a commercial fishery or research operation. In New York, grand larceny is when someone steals something worth more than $1,000, or if they steal a car, gun, or credit card.
There are different levels of severity for grand theft charges, depending on the value of the stolen property. The more severe the charge, the more severe the possible sentence.
For instance, in New York, grand larceny in the fourth degree is when the stolen property is worth more than $1,000 but not more than $3,000. Grand larceny in the first degree is when the stolen property is worth more than $1,000,000.
Overall, grand theft is a serious crime that can result in severe consequences, including fines and imprisonment.