Arcadia Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Arcadia – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft offense in Arcadia puts your freedom and reputation at serious risk, and acting quickly is critical. Whether it’s petty theft, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, any theft-related charge can carry consequences such as jail time, fines, probation, and even a permanent criminal record. In more severe cases, the prosecution may pursue felony charges that could follow you for life, affecting employment, housing, and more.

Don’t delay your defense—call an experienced Arcadia theft attorney at (626) 412-4840 today. At My Rights Law, we understand the nuances of California’s theft statutes and how to build a strong legal strategy tailored to your case. The sooner you begin, the better your chances of securing a favorable outcome.

Ready to speak with a Arcadia theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.

Common Arcadia Theft Crimes

Theft-related charges in California are classified under several sections of the Penal Code and can vary widely in terms of severity and punishment. Each type of theft charge requires a personalized legal approach, but all stem from the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

Some of the most common theft crimes our Arcadia criminal defense team handles include:

• Petty Theft – PC 484(a)
• Shoplifting – PC 459.5(a)
• Grand Theft – PC 487(a)
• Burglary – PC 459
• Embezzlement – PC 503
• Receiving Stolen Property – PC 496

No matter which theft charge you are facing, My Rights Law knows how to navigate the legal system and challenge the evidence against you. We’ll explain your legal options and fight to protect your rights at every stage of the process.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property worth $950 or less. These charges often stem from low-value incidents such as minor shoplifting, stealing unattended items, or similar low-level theft situations. Despite the seemingly minor nature, petty theft charges can carry significant consequences if not properly addressed.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is typically classified as a misdemeanor, and penalties may include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• A maximum fine of $1,000
• Probation, community service, or participation in a theft education program

The final punishment can depend on several factors, including the specific circumstances of the case, the victim (e.g., a business or a vulnerable person), and whether force, fear, or deceit was used. Repeat offenders may face charges under “petty theft with a prior,” which could be treated as a felony and lead to more severe penalties. Our Arcadia theft attorney can help navigate these legal pitfalls to minimize the damage to your future.

Shoplifting

According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial business during regular hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. This includes actions like concealing items, altering price tags, or switching packaging in order to avoid full payment.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines, court fees, and potential restitution to the business
• If previously convicted of violent or serious felonies, shoplifting may be charged as a felony

If you’re a first-time offender, you may be eligible for diversion programs or alternative sentencing options. Our Arcadia theft crime lawyers will explore every opportunity to reduce the charges or even have your case dismissed, depending on the circumstances.

Grand Theft

Under California Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the stolen property’s value exceeds $950. It can also apply to certain specific cases regardless of value, such as theft involving firearms, automobiles, or certain types of animals and agricultural products. Grand theft is considered a more serious charge than petty theft and carries more substantial penalties.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense in California, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. Penalties include:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison
• Restitution payments and formal probation

A felony conviction for grand theft can have lasting consequences—such as losing job opportunities, housing eligibility, and potential immigration implications. That’s why it’s critical to work with a theft defense attorney in Arcadia who knows how to challenge felony charges and build a strong defense aimed at reducing or dismissing them.

Burglary

California Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any structure (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. First-degree burglary typically involves residential buildings, while second-degree burglary pertains to businesses and other non-residential locations.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always a felony
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary is a “wobbler”
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

Burglary charges are serious because they involve a presumption of intent before entering the property. However, an experienced Arcadia criminal defense lawyer can work to challenge the prosecution’s claims of intent, which is often the key to reducing or dismissing these charges.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, as defined under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone who was entrusted with it. This type of offense commonly arises in workplaces and fiduciary relationships, especially where someone has access to financial accounts or valuable property.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the stolen property:
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• Potential penalties include restitution, jail or prison time, fines, and damage to professional reputations

Embezzlement cases can be complex, and you may find yourself accused of wrongdoing even if it was just an honest mistake or accounting error. That’s why it’s vital to have a knowledgeable Arcadia theft crime attorney on your side who can help demonstrate a lack of criminal intent and present a compelling defense to protect your reputation and future.

Proposition 47

California voters passed Proposition 47 in 2014, significantly changing the way certain non-violent theft crimes are classified and prosecuted. Under this reform, offenses such as petty theft, shoplifting, receiving stolen property, and certain fraud-related crimes involving $950 or less are now charged as misdemeanors instead of felonies.

This change not only helps current defendants seek reduced charges but also allows individuals already convicted under the old laws to petition for resentencing.

If you’re facing a felony theft charge in Arcadia, or you were previously convicted of one, our law firm can review your case for possible Prop 47 relief. We’re committed to helping you pursue the lightest penalties available under California law.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is different, but we apply proven defense strategies at My Rights Law and customize them to fit the unique facts of your situation. These include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is key to any theft allegation. If we show the alleged theft was due to a mistake or misunderstanding, the charges can be reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rely on weak or blurry surveillance footage and faulty witness accounts. We challenge unclear identification to undermine the case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your rights during the investigation—such as conducting a search without a warrant—we can move to suppress evidence and dismiss the charges.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property in question was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully belonged to you, we’ll raise this defense to disprove any criminal intent.

Diversion and Probation Options

First-time offenders may qualify for alternatives such as:

• Pretrial diversion
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Theft awareness courses

These options help avoid a conviction and safeguard your clean record. We fight to protect your freedom, your name, and your future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Arcadia Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with theft in California is serious, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life. A skilled Arcadia theft crime attorney can reduce the impact dramatically. Don’t let prosecutors build a case against you unchallenged—take control now.

At My Rights Law, our experienced Arcadia theft lawyers know how to win cases, secure dismissals, and protect your record. We’re aggressive, thorough, and focused on results.

Let us help you fight back. Contact a theft crime lawyer Arcadia residents rely on for strong legal defense.

Call us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online to schedule your free case review. Your defense starts with one call.

Ready to speak with a Arcadia theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.