Facing theft charges in Santa Clarita can put your freedom, reputation, and future at serious risk. Whether you've been accused of shoplifting, embezzlement, grand theft, or burglary, the stakes are high. A conviction can result in jail time, large fines, probation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. In some instances, you may be charged with a felony that can impact your ability to get a job, apply for housing, or obtain professional licenses.
The legal process can move quickly, and prosecutors often begin building their case immediately. That’s why it’s critical to speak with a dedicated theft defense attorney as soon as possible. At My Rights Law, we understand how theft crimes are prosecuted in California, and we use that knowledge to create a personalized defense strategy aimed at protecting your rights and securing the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one has been arrested for theft in Santa Clarita, don’t delay—contact our experienced legal team today by calling (661) 678-9799 for a free and confidential consultation.
Theft-related offenses are outlined in various sections of the California Penal Code. Depending on the specific charge and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime, you could be facing a misdemeanor or a felony with significantly different legal consequences. Regardless of the type, theft crimes generally involve the unlawful taking of another person's property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently.
Here are some of the most frequent theft charges we defend in the Santa Clarita area:
No matter what theft charge you’re up against, My Rights Law has the experience and insight needed to challenge the prosecution's case and protect your legal rights. Let’s go over each charge in detail and explain the potential defenses available to you.
Under California Penal Code §484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This category of theft is often associated with minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-level theft offenses. While it may seem minor, a conviction can still carry significant consequences and impact your future opportunities.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor and can lead to:
The specific penalties often depend on the details of the case, such as the nature of the stolen property, the identity of the victim, and any prior theft-related convictions. Repeat offenses can be escalated to a felony under the “petty theft with a prior” law. If you're facing a petty theft charge in Santa Clarita, My Rights Law can help protect your record and explore all avenues for dismissal or reduction of charges.
California Penal Code §459.5(a) defines shoplifting as entering a commercial business during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. It differs from burglary in that it specifically applies to thefts during regular operating hours of a business establishment.
Penalties for Shoplifting
Shoplifting charges may seem minor, but they can still result in a criminal record. First-time offenders in Santa Clarita may be eligible for alternative sentencing, diversion programs, or even case dismissal. Our experienced theft attorneys will fight for the best possible outcome and help you avoid long-term consequences.
Per Penal Code §487(a), grand theft occurs when someone unlawfully takes property valued at more than $950. It also includes specific types of property regardless of value, such as firearms, vehicles, or certain agricultural products. Grand theft is a more serious offense compared to petty theft, with potentially harsher legal consequences.
Penalties for Grand Theft
This offense is considered a “wobbler” in California, meaning it can be prosecuted either as a misdemeanor or a felony:
Because grand theft can result in a felony conviction, it’s critical to mount a strong legal defense. A felony record can affect your career, housing, and even immigration status. Our Santa Clarita theft attorneys are equipped to challenge the evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, or pursue alternative resolutions that preserve your future.
Burglary, as defined by Penal Code §459, is entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. There are two types of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). The key element in burglary is the intent formed before entry, which distinguishes it from other theft crimes.
Penalties for Burglary
Prosecutors often push hard on burglary charges due to the perceived premeditation involved. However, a skilled Santa Clarita criminal defense attorney may be able to challenge the intent requirement, which is essential for conviction. Our team knows how to dismantle weak prosecution arguments and aim for the most favorable result possible.
Embezzlement is covered under Penal Code §503 and occurs when someone entrusted with another person’s property fraudulently appropriates it for personal use. This crime is common in employment settings, where employees have access to company funds, client assets, or business accounts.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Many embezzlement accusations arise from misunderstandings or accounting mistakes. Unfortunately, even an honest error can lead to criminal prosecution. If you're accused of embezzlement in Santa Clarita, My Rights Law can build a strategic defense to demonstrate your lack of intent and minimize your exposure to criminal penalties.
Proposition 47, enacted in 2014, significantly altered California’s approach to certain theft-related crimes by reclassifying many non-violent felonies as misdemeanors. This change impacts offenses like petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property when the value does not exceed $950.
As a result, individuals facing felony theft charges may now be eligible for reduced sentencing under Prop 47. In some cases, even those already convicted before the law passed can petition for resentencing and relief.
If you’re confronting felony charges in Santa Clarita, our legal team at My Rights Law can assess whether you qualify for Prop 47 relief and advocate for a reclassification to a misdemeanor, helping you avoid life-altering consequences.
Each theft case is different, but our legal team at My Rights Law uses time-tested defense strategies customized to your unique facts. Common defenses include:
Intent is a critical part of proving theft. If we can show the incident was a misunderstanding or lacked criminal intent, your charges could be reduced or dismissed.
Eyewitnesses and surveillance footage are often unreliable. If the evidence doesn't clearly identify you, we’ll challenge the case on that basis.
If officers conducted an unlawful search or violated your rights, we can file motions to suppress evidence, which may cripple the prosecution’s case.
If there was permission to take the item or a belief that the property was yours, we’ll use that to demonstrate no crime was committed.
First-time offenders may qualify for:
These alternatives can prevent a conviction and keep your record clear. We aim to safeguard your reputation, freedom, and future.
Facing theft charges in Santa Clarita doesn’t mean your life is over. With a knowledgeable theft attorney, the impact can be significantly reduced. Don’t let the prosecution overwhelm you—act early.
At My Rights Law, our Santa Clarita theft defense attorneys have a history of beating charges, negotiating reduced penalties, and keeping clients out of jail. We’re aggressive, strategic, and focused solely on defending your rights.
Call us today at (661) 678-9799 or contact us online for a free case review. The right defense can make all the difference.
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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