Being arrested or charged with a theft crime in Culver City can seriously threaten your future. Whether the allegations involve shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, the stakes are high—potential penalties include jail or prison time, large fines, and the burden of a criminal record. Depending on the facts, you may be facing a misdemeanor or a felony, either of which can have lifelong consequences, such as difficulty finding employment or housing.
At My Rights Law, we understand how overwhelming this situation can be. Our experienced Culver City theft crime lawyers take immediate action to protect your rights and develop a strong, customized defense. We understand how the courts operate locally and know how to negotiate with prosecutors to fight for charge reductions or dismissals whenever possible.
If you are being accused of theft, don’t delay—reach out to a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (424) 421-2330. The earlier we get involved, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Let us begin building your defense now.
Theft charges in California cover a broad spectrum of offenses, each with different levels of severity depending on the facts of the case. The core definition under the law remains consistent—taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Each type of charge requires a targeted legal strategy based on the evidence, the alleged value of the stolen item, and your criminal history.
Some of the most frequent theft-related charges in Culver City include:
Regardless of the specific offense you're facing, our legal team knows how to respond. We’ll review your case details, explain what the law says, and help you understand your best legal options moving forward.
Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as unlawfully taking property valued at $950 or less. This typically includes low-level offenses such as shoplifting, pocket-picking, or stealing unattended items. While these incidents might seem minor, being charged with petty theft in Culver City can carry serious consequences, especially if you have prior convictions or if aggravating circumstances are involved. A petty theft charge can negatively impact your criminal record, employment opportunities, and immigration status if not handled correctly.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor and can lead to:
If you have a prior theft-related conviction, prosecutors may file charges as “petty theft with a prior,” potentially elevating the offense to a felony. The context of the alleged theft—such as whether the victim was vulnerable, or if fear or force was used—can also significantly impact how the case is prosecuted. A Culver City theft attorney can help reduce or even eliminate these penalties by challenging the prosecution’s evidence and negotiating for alternative resolutions.
According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a business during normal hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. While it might seem like a simple offense, shoplifting charges in Culver City can have significant legal consequences depending on the defendant’s record and the case details.
Penalties for Shoplifting
For first-time offenders, it’s often possible to obtain a lighter sentence or alternative punishment. A Culver City theft attorney can push for a pretrial diversion, dismissal, or reduced penalties—especially if there’s evidence that undermines the alleged intent to steal. Early legal intervention is crucial to keep a shoplifting charge from permanently damaging your criminal record and reputation.
Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when someone unlawfully takes property valued over $950. However, grand theft is not limited to monetary value—it also applies to cases involving firearms, automobiles, or certain types of animals and agricultural products. In Culver City, this crime can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the case’s facts and the accused’s background. This flexibility in classification is known as a “wobbler” offense, giving prosecutors discretion in how to file charges.
Penalties for Grand Theft
The punishment for grand theft varies depending on the specific filing:
A felony grand theft conviction can result in long-term consequences beyond jail time, including employment limitations, loss of civil rights, and immigration issues. For these reasons, it’s critical to hire a Culver City grand theft attorney who can assess whether the charges can be reduced or dismissed and develop a defense that challenges the prosecution’s claims regarding value, ownership, or intent.
Per California Penal Code 459, burglary occurs when someone enters a building—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony once inside. Burglary is divided into two categories: first-degree (typically residential) and second-degree (usually commercial). What sets burglary apart from other theft crimes is the intent to steal or commit a felony prior to entering the property, which makes the charge more serious.
Penalties for Burglary
Since burglary hinges on the prosecution proving intent before entry, a seasoned Culver City burglary attorney can often undermine this key element. If intent cannot be clearly demonstrated, the charges may be downgraded or dismissed entirely.
Embezzlement, under Penal Code 503, is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone to whom it was entrusted. This type of crime most often arises in employment settings where an individual has access to financial accounts, cash, or company assets. Even a small accounting error or misunderstanding can trigger embezzlement charges, making it essential to have legal representation if you’re accused.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Embezzlement cases often hinge on whether the act was intentional or a genuine mistake. A Culver City embezzlement lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s claims and present evidence showing lack of intent or mitigating circumstances. With the right legal approach, charges may be reduced or dismissed entirely, preserving your future and reputation.
Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 significantly changed how California treats certain theft-related offenses. It reclassified many non-violent crimes—including petty theft, shoplifting, receiving stolen property, and drug possession—as misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less.
As a result, many individuals now qualify for reduced charges, shorter jail time, or alternative sentencing options. Prop 47 also allows for resentencing of individuals previously convicted under harsher felony laws.
If you’re currently facing theft charges in Culver City or have a past felony conviction that may qualify for reduction, My Rights Law can review your case and determine if Prop 47 relief applies. This could lead to a significant reduction in penalties or even the complete removal of a felony from your record.
Every theft case is different, but our experienced Culver City theft attorneys at My Rights Law apply tested strategies tailored to each client’s unique situation. These include:
Intent is a required element of any theft charge. If we can prove your actions lacked criminal intent—such as an honest mistake—we will seek to dismiss or reduce charges.
Theft accusations often stem from unreliable witnesses or unclear surveillance. If you weren’t correctly identified, we will challenge the prosecution’s evidence at every turn.
If law enforcement violated your rights during a stop or arrest, such as searching without a warrant, we’ll file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence.
Misunderstandings happen. If the item in question was borrowed, gifted, or believed to be yours, we’ll argue there was no intent to steal.
First-time offenders in Culver City may qualify for alternative sentencing, including:
These options can help you avoid a permanent criminal record. Our goal is to safeguard your freedom and protect your future.
A theft charge in Culver City can disrupt your entire life—but it doesn't have to define your future. The right legal help makes all the difference.
At My Rights Law, our Culver City theft attorneys have a strong record of beating charges, securing reduced penalties, and helping clients avoid jail time. We’re aggressive, strategic, and fully committed to your defense.
Don’t wait. Call (424) 421-2330 or contact us online today for a free case evaluation. Your freedom is too important to leave to chance.
This page was written, edited, reviewed, and approved by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the managing partner and founder 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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