Being accused of a theft crime in Fountain Valley puts your reputation, your freedom, and your future at serious risk. There are many types of theft charges—such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, and embezzlement—all of which carry the potential for severe penalties, including incarceration, hefty fines, and lasting probation. In more serious cases, a theft conviction could result in a felony on your record, potentially impacting you for the rest of your life.
If you are facing theft charges, reach out to a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (714) 248-8111 immediately. Taking prompt action is essential, as every moment counts when building an effective defense strategy.
Theft crimes in California are covered by a range of laws in the Penal Code, and the approach to prosecution can differ based on the specific type of offense and the unique facts of each case. Regardless of the specific charge, theft crimes generally involve the unlawful taking of property belonging to another person, with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
No matter which theft offense you’re charged with, our legal team understands the best way to defend against it. Below, we’ll explain what each of these common charges means and how they are prosecuted in Fountain Valley.
Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This type of theft most commonly involves acts like shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other situations where low-value goods are stolen. In Fountain Valley, petty theft cases are prosecuted vigorously, and a conviction—even for a seemingly minor incident—can have serious consequences for your record and future opportunities.
Penalty for Petty Theft
Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor, which can include:
The punishment can increase depending on circumstances such as the type of victim, the use of force, or prior criminal history. For example, if you have previous theft convictions, you could be charged with “petty theft with a prior,” which may elevate the charge to a felony and lead to more severe penalties. It is essential to have a Fountain Valley theft attorney review your situation to minimize the consequences and protect your rights.
According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering an open business during regular hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is prosecuted independently from burglary or grand theft and usually involves retail environments where suspects are apprehended on the spot.
Penalties for Shoplifting
First-time shoplifting offenses often allow for leniency. With an experienced Fountain Valley theft attorney on your side, you may be able to pursue alternatives like diversion, reduced charges, or even a dismissal, helping to keep your record clean and your future intact.
Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft is committed when someone unlawfully takes property worth more than $950, or specific types of property like automobiles or firearms, regardless of their value. This charge covers a broad range of situations, from stealing expensive electronics to misappropriating funds in a business setting. The seriousness of grand theft means the legal consequences can be substantial, with the case being prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony—a so-called “wobbler” offense.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Depending on how the prosecution chooses to file the case and the facts involved, possible penalties include:
A felony grand theft conviction can impact your life long after your sentence ends, making it difficult to find work, qualify for housing, or even affect your immigration status if you are not a U.S. citizen. With so much at stake, you need an experienced Fountain Valley theft lawyer who understands how to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and seek reduced charges or case dismissal whenever possible.
California Penal Code 459 describes burglary as entering a building—whether a home or business—with the intent to commit theft or any felony. There are two degrees of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). The prosecution does not need to prove that the theft or felony actually occurred, only that you intended to commit the crime upon entry.
Penalties for Burglary
Because burglary cases often revolve around the element of intent, it’s critical to have a Fountain Valley theft defense attorney who can challenge the prosecution’s claims and seek to reduce or dismiss the charges based on the facts of your case.
Embezzlement, defined by Penal Code 503, is the unlawful and fraudulent taking of property by someone who was entrusted with it. Embezzlement is most often seen in workplace situations or fiduciary relationships, such as when an employee is accused of taking company funds or assets. These cases can be complex, as they often involve detailed financial records and disputes about intent or permission.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Embezzlement can sometimes result from an honest mistake or miscommunication. If you are facing embezzlement charges in Fountain Valley, having a knowledgeable theft crime lawyer is crucial for developing a defense, establishing your intentions, and protecting your future from life-altering penalties.
In 2014, California voters passed Proposition 47, a law that reclassified many non-violent property crimes—such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors. This means individuals facing certain theft charges now may be eligible for reduced penalties or resentencing, even if they were previously convicted under more stringent laws.
If you’re currently facing theft charges in Fountain Valley or want to see if you qualify for Prop 47 relief, our team at My Rights Law can review your case, explain your rights, and advocate for the best possible outcome under current California law.
Every theft case in Fountain Valley is unique, but we apply proven defense strategies at My Rights Law while customizing them for your specific circumstances. Common approaches include:
A key element of theft is intent. If we can demonstrate there was no intent to commit theft—whether through misunderstanding or accident—we can seek to have charges reduced or dismissed entirely.
Theft charges often depend on questionable surveillance footage or unreliable witnesses. If your identity is not clearly established, we’ll challenge the prosecution’s case from the start.
If your rights were violated during a stop, search, or arrest, we can seek to have the resulting evidence excluded, greatly weakening the case against you.
If the property in question was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we will use these facts to show there was no unlawful taking or theft.
For first-time offenders, we may pursue options such as:
These alternatives can help keep your record clean and avoid a conviction. Our top priority is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.
Facing theft charges in California can feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end. The right Fountain Valley theft crime attorney can minimize the impact on your life and help you move forward. Don’t let the prosecution build their case unchecked—get proactive legal support today.
At My Rights Law, our Fountain Valley theft lawyers have a strong record of beating charges, securing favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail. We’re strategic, relentless, and dedicated to your defense.
Don’t go through this alone. Call the theft crime attorneys Fountain Valley residents trust to protect their future.
Call us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could make all the difference.
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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