Being accused of a theft crime in Glendale is a serious matter that can jeopardize your future, reputation, and personal freedom. There are numerous theft-related offenses under California law—including shoplifting, burglary, embezzlement, and grand theft—and each carries its own set of penalties. These penalties may include jail time, heavy fines, probation, or even a felony conviction that could permanently impact your criminal record and follow you for years to come.
When facing theft charges, you need to act quickly. At My Rights Law, we understand the urgency and complexities of theft-related accusations. A proactive and personalized legal defense can make a difference in your case. Contact our experienced Glendale theft attorney by calling (747) 231-5090 today. The sooner you start building your defense, the better your chances are of minimizing the impact of the charges against you.
Theft crimes are prosecuted under multiple sections of the California Penal Code, each addressing different forms and degrees of theft. While the definition generally includes the unlawful taking of property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner, the nature of the act—how it occurred, the value involved, and your criminal history—can affect whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or a felony. Every theft case is unique and must be approached accordingly.
In Glendale, the theft crimes we most frequently defend against include:
No matter which of these charges you're facing, My Rights Law knows how to navigate the legal system and fight for the best possible outcome in your theft case.
Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. These incidents are usually minor in nature, including acts such as shoplifting small items, pickpocketing, or taking lost property without attempting to return it. While it may seem like a minor offense, petty theft can still lead to serious legal consequences and a permanent mark on your criminal record if not handled properly.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
In most cases, petty theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor, which may result in the following penalties:
Penalties may become harsher depending on factors such as the victim’s identity (e.g., elderly, minor, or disabled individuals), prior criminal history, or use of threats or force. Repeat offenders could even face “petty theft with a prior,” a charge that may be prosecuted as a felony. A knowledgeable Glendale theft lawyer can help you avoid the severe outcomes of a repeat or aggravated charge.
Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when an individual enters a commercial establishment during business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is one of the most common theft offenses and often involves taking items from a retail store without paying, attempting to swap price tags, or concealing merchandise.
Penalties for Shoplifting
For first-time offenders, the court may be open to alternatives to incarceration. With a skilled Glendale theft attorney, you may be able to secure a diversion program, reduced charges, or even a case dismissal based on your circumstances and clean record.
Grand theft, as defined by Penal Code section 487(a), applies when the value of the stolen property exceeds $950 or when the theft involves specific items such as firearms, vehicles, or certain livestock. This category of theft is more serious than petty theft and is treated more aggressively by prosecutors.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft is considered a "wobbler" offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the situation:
A felony grand theft conviction carries long-term consequences such as loss of employment opportunities, housing issues, and potential immigration complications. Our Glendale theft defense lawyers know how to challenge evidence, negotiate plea deals, or get charges reduced, helping protect your rights and future from the heavy consequences of a felony conviction.
Burglary, defined under Penal Code section 459, involves entering a building (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. There are two degrees: first-degree burglary refers to homes and inhabited structures, while second-degree burglary applies to stores and businesses.
Penalties for Burglary
Because burglary charges hinge on intent before entering the property, proving or disproving that intent is key. A seasoned Glendale theft lawyer can often attack the prosecution’s claims regarding your intent, which could lead to a reduced charge or complete dismissal.
Embezzlement, under Penal Code section 503, occurs when a person entrusted with property or funds fraudulently takes it for their own use. These cases often arise in employer-employee relationships or among individuals responsible for managing financial assets, such as bookkeepers or managers.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Embezzlement charges can be based on misunderstanding or accounting mistakes. Unfortunately, these charges still carry severe implications unless properly defended. A Glendale theft defense attorney can help demonstrate the lack of criminal intent, resolve misunderstandings, and fight to protect your record and your career.
Proposition 47, passed by California voters in 2014, significantly changed the classification of many non-violent property crimes. It reclassified certain theft-related offenses, such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, as misdemeanors when the value involved does not exceed $950.
This law allows qualifying defendants to seek a reduction in charges or even resentencing for past felony convictions. This has offered a second chance to many individuals who were previously given harsher penalties for minor crimes.
If you are currently facing felony theft charges in Glendale, or if you have a prior felony on your record that may be eligible for reduction, our legal team at My Rights Law can evaluate your case and pursue Prop 47 relief to lessen the impact on your life.
Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we use proven strategies while customizing our approach to fit your individual circumstances. Common defenses include:
A crucial aspect of any theft offense is intent. If we can show there was no intent to steal—perhaps the act was accidental or based on a misunderstanding—we can push for dropped or reduced charges.
Theft allegations often rely on unclear video footage or faulty eyewitness accounts. If your identity as the alleged perpetrator is uncertain, we can challenge the credibility of the case.
If your arrest involved a violation of your Fourth Amendment rights—like an unlawful stop or search—we can file a motion to suppress the evidence obtained, weakening the prosecution's case.
When the property in question was loaned, gifted, or belonged to you, we can present this as evidence that no theft actually occurred.
First-time offenders may qualify for alternatives to jail, such as:
These options can help keep your record clean and avoid long-term consequences. We’re here to protect not just your case—but your future.
Being charged with theft in California can impact every area of your life—but it doesn’t have to define your future. The sooner you act, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. At My Rights Law, our Glendale theft crime attorneys are known for beating charges, reducing penalties, and protecting our clients’ rights at every step.
Don’t wait. Hire the Glendale theft crime defense lawyer people turn to when their future is on the line.
Call us now at (747) 231-5090 or contact us online for a free case evaluation. One phone 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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