Being accused of a theft crime in Santa Ana can have a major impact on your future and your freedom, and immediate action is crucial. Whether you’re facing allegations of shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, or another theft offense, the potential penalties are serious—ranging from jail time and fines to probation and a permanent criminal record. In more severe cases, you could even be facing felony charges that will stay with you for life.
If you are being investigated or have been charged with a theft crime, contact a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (714) 881-2207 right away. The sooner you reach out, the better your chances of developing an effective defense strategy. Don’t wait—protect your rights and future now.
Theft crimes in California are divided into several categories under the Penal Code, and each case can be handled differently depending on the specific facts involved. The legal definition shared by all theft offenses is the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to steal. It’s important to understand which theft statute applies to your case, as each carries its own consequences and requires a tailored defense strategy.
No matter which theft charge you are facing, we have the experience and knowledge to handle it. Here’s what each of these offenses involves and how the law treats them.
Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Common forms of petty theft include shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts involving low-value items. Even though it might seem minor, being convicted of petty theft in Santa Ana can still carry significant consequences.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
Generally, petty theft is charged as a misdemeanor with penalties such as:
The exact punishment can depend on the value of the stolen property, whether the victim was a vulnerable individual (like an elderly or disabled person), or if force or fear was used. Prior theft convictions can also elevate a petty theft charge to a felony, which carries much harsher consequences. That’s why it’s critical to work with a Santa Ana theft attorney who can help protect your record and your future.
According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting refers to entering a commercial establishment during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is a common charge, but it should be taken seriously, as a conviction can have lasting effects.
Penalties for Shoplifting
For first-time offenders, alternatives like diversion or sentence reduction are sometimes available. A knowledgeable Santa Ana theft attorney can negotiate for reduced consequences, alternative sentencing, or in some cases, dismissal of charges altogether, protecting your future and your reputation.
Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft is defined as stealing property valued at more than $950. It can also include the theft of automobiles, firearms, or certain types of livestock. Grand theft is considered a more serious offense and can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft is a “wobbler” in California, which means it may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the facts of your case and your criminal history:
A felony conviction for grand theft can have a severe and lasting impact, including difficulty finding work or housing, and possible immigration consequences. If you’re facing grand theft charges in Santa Ana, you need an experienced theft attorney who will work to have the charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved with minimal impact on your life.
California Penal Code 459 describes burglary as entering a building or other structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. There are two degrees of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial).
Penalties for Burglary
Burglary cases are treated harshly, especially residential burglary. The prosecution must prove intent to commit theft or a felony at the time of entry. An experienced Santa Ana theft attorney can often challenge this element, potentially leading to reduced charges or case dismissal.
Embezzlement, as defined under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person entrusted with it. This often occurs in employment or fiduciary relationships, such as misappropriating company funds or property. Even a simple accounting error can result in embezzlement charges.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Embezzlement charges require a strong defense, as they often arise from misunderstandings or complex financial transactions. The best way to protect yourself is to consult a Santa Ana theft attorney who can clarify the facts, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and build a defense aimed at proving your innocence or lack of intent.
Proposition 47, passed in 2014, significantly reclassified many non-violent property crimes, including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, from felonies to misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less.
This law allows for more defendants to be eligible for reduced sentences or even resentencing, especially for those previously convicted under harsher laws.
If you are facing a theft charge in Santa Ana, our legal team at My Rights Law can review your situation for possible Proposition 47 relief, seeking to have your felony charge reduced to a misdemeanor or your sentence reduced where possible.
Every theft case is different, but there are proven strategies we use at My Rights Law, tailored to your individual situation. Our core defense tactics include:
Intent is a key element in theft cases. If we can show that you had no intent to steal and that any taking was accidental or a misunderstanding, we can pursue reduced or dismissed charges.
Theft allegations often rely on unclear surveillance or unreliable witnesses. If your identification is questionable, we will challenge the prosecution’s case at every step.
If law enforcement violated your rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we work to get key evidence thrown out and weaken the prosecution’s position.
If you had permission, believed the item was yours, or there’s a legitimate ownership dispute, we will use this defense to fight the theft charges.
For many first-time offenders, we aim for alternatives such as:
These options can help keep a conviction off your record and give you a chance to move forward. Our mission is to protect your freedom, your reputation, and your future.
Facing theft charges in California is serious, but it’s not hopeless. With an experienced Santa Ana theft crime attorney, you can fight for your future. Don’t let the prosecution overwhelm you—get help today.
At My Rights Law, our Santa Ana theft defense team has a history of beating charges, securing favorable deals, and protecting our clients from jail. We are aggressive, strategic, and fully committed to defending your rights.
Don’t go through this alone. Choose the theft attorney Santa Ana residents trust with their most important cases.
Call us now at (714) 881-2207 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could be the difference between a conviction and your freedom.
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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