Facing theft charges in Costa Mesa can put your future, your freedom, and your reputation at serious risk. Whether you’re dealing with accusations of shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, or any other theft-related offense, the stakes are high. These charges can result in severe consequences such as jail time, hefty fines, probation, and in some cases, a lifelong felony record that follows you everywhere you go.
Don’t take chances with your future. If you are under investigation or have been arrested for a theft crime, you need to act fast. Call an experienced California theft attorney at [PHONE]. Building a strong defense from the very start can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Our legal team at My Rights Law is ready to help you develop the best strategy to minimize the impact of these charges and fight for the best possible result.
Theft crimes in California are defined and prosecuted under a range of statutes, depending on the facts and severity of each case. Every allegation is unique, and the penalties can vary greatly, but the underlying principle is the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Costa Mesa, some of the most frequently charged theft offenses include:
No matter what type of theft crime you’re facing, My Rights Law understands how to address each statute and situation. Below, we explain what these charges mean and how they might be prosecuted in Costa Mesa courts.
Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft in California is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This type of offense usually involves acts such as minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-level thefts from stores or individuals. Petty theft is considered less serious than other theft offenses, but it can still carry substantial penalties that impact your future. If you are accused of petty theft in Costa Mesa, it’s important to understand the potential consequences and seek experienced legal help.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
Most petty theft cases are charged as misdemeanors and may result in the following penalties:
The exact penalty will depend on several factors, such as the value of the property, the victim involved (e.g., a business, a vulnerable person), and your prior criminal history. If you have previous theft convictions, you may face a charge of “petty theft with a prior,” which could even be prosecuted as a felony, carrying much harsher penalties.
California Penal Code 459.5(a) defines shoplifting as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is one of the most common theft crimes in Costa Mesa, often occurring in retail stores or shopping centers.
Penalties for Shoplifting
If this is your first offense, an experienced Costa Mesa theft crime attorney may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence, alternative sentencing (such as diversion programs), or even a dismissal. Legal representation is crucial to explore your options and protect your record.
According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the property stolen exceeds $950 in value. This charge also applies to thefts involving firearms, automobiles, or certain livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft is treated more seriously due to the higher value or nature of the items involved.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft is considered a “wobbler,” meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the facts of the case, the amount taken, and your criminal record:
A felony conviction for grand theft can have life-altering consequences, including difficulties securing employment, finding housing, or immigration complications. To avoid the harshest penalties, it’s vital to work with a knowledgeable theft attorney in Costa Mesa who understands how to fight or reduce felony charges.
Penal Code 459 describes burglary as entering any building—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. Burglary charges are divided into first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) offenses, with the former considered much more severe.
Penalties for Burglary
Burglary is punished more severely because it requires intent before entering the premises. However, a skilled Costa Mesa criminal defense attorney may challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent, which can be critical in achieving reduced charges or a case dismissal.
Embezzlement, covered under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone to whom it was entrusted—commonly seen in employment situations or when handling another’s finances. Embezzlement does not require a physical taking; even misusing access to funds or assets can result in criminal charges.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Even honest mistakes or misunderstandings over money management can lead to embezzlement charges. If you’re facing accusations in Costa Mesa, it’s essential to seek counsel from a theft attorney who can build a defense to show lack of intent and prevent serious damage to your reputation and future.
Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified many non-violent property and drug offenses—including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors. As a result, countless defendants are now eligible for reduced sentences or even resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws.
If you or a loved one is facing felony theft charges in Costa Mesa, My Rights Law can assess whether you qualify for Prop 47 relief and work aggressively to secure misdemeanor treatment. Contact us for a free consultation to see how these recent legal changes could benefit your case.
Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we use proven defense strategies that are tailored to your specific situation. Our main tactics include:
Intent is a crucial part of any theft crime. If we show your actions were accidental or a misunderstanding, we can pursue a reduction or dismissal of charges.
Theft accusations often rely on unclear video or unreliable eyewitnesses. If your identity is in doubt, we challenge the prosecution’s evidence from the start.
If the police violated your rights during a search, stop, or arrest, we will fight to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.
If you borrowed, were given, or owned the property in question, we’ll use this defense to show there was no unlawful taking.
For first-time offenders, we often seek alternatives to jail, including:
These options help you avoid a conviction and protect your record.
Being charged with theft in California is stressful, but it’s not the end of your story. With the right Costa Mesa theft attorney, you can protect your future and minimize the consequences. Don’t let prosecutors overwhelm you with allegations—get help now.
At My Rights Law, our theft lawyers in Costa Mesa have a track record of dismissing charges, negotiating favorable results, and keeping clients out of jail. We are tireless, strategic, and fully committed to your defense.
Don’t face these accusations alone. Hire the theft crime defense attorney Costa Mesa residents trust for the toughest legal challenges.
Call us at [PHONE] or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call can be the difference between conviction and freedom.
This page was written by the My Rights Law Editorial Team and reviewed for legal accuracy by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the founder and managing partner of My Rights Law and is widely recognized as a legal authority, frequently appearing as a legal analyst and TV pundit on national news outlets.
He has earned a perfect “10.0 – Top Attorney” rating on AVVO and a “10.0” rating on Justia, and has been named among the “Top 40 Under 40” and the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers.
With his proven expertise and dedication, Mr. Shamuilian is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
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