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Video: Charged with Larceny Over $1200 in Massachusetts? Know Your Legal Rights Before Court
March 10, 2026
Transcript
Larceny Over $1200 Charge in Massachusetts Explained
Introduction
Many people in Massachusetts would be shocked to learn that a theft accusation involving just over $1,200 can suddenly become a felony level charge. That charge is called larceny over $1,200. I’m Attorney Tracy Paulsen with Rightful Legal, and I help clients across the Commonwealth with charges like this.
What Is Larceny Over $1200
In Massachusetts, larceny over $1,200 is a serious criminal charge. It can arise in many different situations. It could be an allegation involving retail theft, misuse of someone’s credit card, workplace accusations, contractor disputes, or claims that someone took property or money they were not entitled to.
Common Theft Accusations
These cases often involve allegations such as retail theft, misuse of a credit card, workplace disputes, contractor disagreements, or accusations that someone took money or property without permission.
Serious Penalties Explained
Once the alleged value crosses the $1,200 threshold, the potential penalties increase significantly. A conviction can carry jail time, probation, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses in the future.
Clerk Magistrate Hearing Overview
Many people do not realize that the first critical stage of many of these cases is called a clerk magistrate hearing.
The clerk magistrate hearing is a screening process that happens before a criminal charge is formally issued in court. At this hearing, the clerk magistrate decides whether there is probable cause to issue a criminal complaint.
How the Hearing Works
Probable cause is a very low standard. This stage is extremely important and, with the right legal strategy, it is sometimes possible to resolve the matter at the clerk magistrate hearing and prevent the criminal complaint from being issued.
Avoiding a Criminal Record
If the matter is resolved at this stage, it means you avoid a public criminal case altogether and avoid having it appear on your background record.
My role at this stage is to carefully analyze the allegations, evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the claim, and advocate for a resolution that protects you and your record whenever possible.
Possible Case Outcomes
Even when a complaint has been issued and you are arraigned and the case moves forward in court, there are still many possible outcomes depending on the facts.
These outcomes can include dismissals, negotiation, restitution based resolutions, or litigation defenses that challenge the government’s proof.
Every case turns on the evidence, the legal elements of the charge, and the strategy used early in the process.
Why Early Legal Help Matters
The key is understanding that being accused is not the same as being convicted. Early legal intervention can make a significant difference in how your case ultimately resolves.
Contact for Legal Help
If you have been charged with larceny over $1,200 in Massachusetts, call me today. You can reach me directly at 617-821-5856. The consultation is free and completely confidential. Thank you so much and have a great day.
