Petit Theft
/ˈpɛtɪ ˈθɛft/
Definitions
- (n.) A criminal offense involving the unlawful taking of property valued below a statutory threshold, distinguished from grand theft by the lower value of the stolen property.
He was charged with petit theft for shoplifting items worth under $500.
Forms
- petit thefts
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Petit theft statutes vary by jurisdiction, often specifying a monetary value threshold that separates it from grand theft, which affects the severity of charges and penalties.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.