Being charged with a theft crime in San Bernardino puts your freedom and future at risk, and the clock is ticking against you. Theft offenses come in many forms — including shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and more — each carrying serious consequences such as jail time, fines, and probation. Some theft charges may even be elevated to felony convictions, which remain on your record permanently and can impact your life indefinitely.
If you are facing theft charges, do not delay — contact a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (909) 639-2551 right away. Acting quickly to build a strong defense is essential to minimize the consequences and protect your rights.
Theft offenses in California are classified under different sections of the Penal Code. The prosecution method depends on the crime's nature and circumstances, so each theft charge must be handled with a tailored legal approach. In general, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. The most frequent theft-related charges in San Bernardino include:
No matter which theft charge you face, we have the expertise to help. Let’s explore what each charge entails and how the law applies to your case.
Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This offense typically covers minor thefts such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other small-value items.
Penalty for Petty Theft
Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor and can result in penalties including:
The severity of the punishment can vary depending on factors such as the value of stolen goods, the nature of the victim (business, elderly, disabled, minor), use of force or intimidation, and prior criminal history. Repeat offenses may escalate the charge to a felony, bringing harsher consequences. A knowledgeable San Bernardino theft attorney can help minimize these risks by challenging the evidence and negotiating favorable outcomes.
According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial establishment during regular business hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
Penalties for Shoplifting
For first-time offenders, penalties can often be reduced or alternative sentencing pursued. A skilled San Bernardino theft crime attorney can negotiate for sentence reductions, diversion programs, or even case dismissal, depending on your circumstances.
Per Penal Code 487(a), grand theft involves stealing property valued over $950. This category also includes theft of firearms, automobiles, or certain livestock.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft is classified as a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony depending on case details. Punishments vary as follows:
A felony conviction for grand theft can have serious long-term consequences beyond legal penalties, affecting employment opportunities, housing, and immigration status. Defending against such charges requires an experienced San Bernardino theft attorney who understands how to mitigate these risks and fight for the best possible outcome.
Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any structure—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Burglary is divided into first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) offenses.
Penalties for Burglary
Because burglary involves intent to commit a crime prior to entry, it is prosecuted more harshly than other theft crimes. However, a skilled San Bernardino defense attorney can often challenge this intent element to reduce or dismiss charges altogether.
Embezzlement, covered under PC 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone entrusted with it, most commonly in workplace or financial account settings.
Penalties for Embezzlement
One challenge with embezzlement cases is that even honest mistakes or accounting errors can lead to criminal charges. Obtaining representation from a knowledgeable theft lawyer in San Bernardino is crucial to build a defense that disproves intent and protects your rights.
Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses from felonies to misdemeanors, including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property when the value involved is $950 or less.
This legislation allows many defendants to seek reduced sentencing or resentencing if previously convicted under harsher felony laws.
If you face felony theft charges, our legal team can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief and pursue misdemeanor treatment where applicable, helping you minimize penalties and protect your future.
Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven defense strategies tailored to your unique situation. Key approaches include:
The essential element of theft is intent. If we can demonstrate that the taking was accidental or misunderstood, we work to reduce or dismiss your charges.
Theft cases often depend on poor evidence or uncertain eyewitness testimony. If you are not positively identified, we can challenge the validity of the entire case.
If law enforcement violated your rights during a search, stop, or arrest, we can move to exclude that evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case against you.
If the property was borrowed, given to you, or rightfully owned, we will use this defense to prove no unlawful taking occurred.
For first-time offenders, we may seek:
These alternatives help you avoid a conviction and keep your record clean. Our priority is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.
Though overwhelming, a theft charge in California is not the end. A skilled San Bernardino theft crime attorney can help minimize the impact on your life.
At My Rights Law, our experienced San Bernardino theft lawyers have a history of beating charges, negotiating favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail.
Don’t face theft charges alone. Trust a defense attorney San Bernardino residents rely on for serious legal battles.
Call us now at (909) 639-2551 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can mean the difference between jail 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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