Understanding Carrying Away: Key Legal Insights and Definitions

Definition & Meaning

Carrying away refers to the act of physically moving or removing property or a person from one location to another. In legal terms, it is a critical component of larceny, meaning that for a theft to be considered larceny, the property must be taken and carried away from its original location. Even minimal movement, such as taking sheets from a bed into an adjoining room, can qualify as carrying away. However, if possession is not completely severed, it does not meet the legal definition of carrying away, which is also known as asportation.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A person takes a package from a neighbor's porch and carries it into their own home. This action constitutes carrying away and can be classified as theft.

Example 2: A person moves furniture from a rental property to another location without the landlord's permission (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Definition Variance
California Emphasizes intent to permanently deprive the owner of property.
New York Includes specific thresholds for value of property taken.
Texas Considers the method of carrying away in determining severity of the offense.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition
Asportation Another term for carrying away, specifically referring to the act of moving property.
Larceny The unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
Theft A broader term that encompasses various forms of stealing, including larceny.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you believe you are involved in a situation related to carrying away, consider the following steps:

  • Document all relevant details about the incident.
  • Consult legal resources or professionals for advice.
  • Explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist in managing your legal needs.
  • If the matter is complex, seek professional legal representation.

Quick facts

  • Typical penalties for larceny can include fines and imprisonment.
  • Jurisdictions vary in how they define the value of stolen property.
  • Intent to deprive the owner is a critical factor in determining larceny.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Theft is a broader term that includes various forms of stealing, while larceny specifically refers to the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's property.