Buena Park Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Buena Park – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Buena Park puts your reputation, future, and freedom at risk—and every moment counts. There are several types of theft crimes (such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and more), but each one can result in serious consequences, including jail, hefty fines, and extended probation. In some instances, you could even be facing a felony charge that remains on your record and impacts you for the rest of your life.

If you are facing theft charges, do not delay—contact an experienced California theft attorney at (657) 378-7278 today. The sooner you get started on your theft defense strategy, the better your chances for a positive outcome.

Ready to speak with a Buena Park theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.

Common Buena Park Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are defined under multiple sections of the California Penal Code, and the approach to each case can differ based on the details and seriousness of the offense. Regardless of the charge, every theft crime involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the rightful owner. How your case is prosecuted depends on the nature and circumstances of the alleged offense.

Some of the most common theft crime charges in Buena Park 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 statute you are accused of violating, our firm knows exactly how to address it. Below, we’ll explain each of these charges and what prosecution might look like in your situation.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft occurs when someone unlawfully takes property valued at $950 or less. This usually includes offenses such as minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or stealing low-value items from stores or individuals. In Buena Park, petty theft charges can have serious consequences, especially if it is not your first offense. Repeat offenders may face enhanced charges and more severe penalties. The specific punishment for petty theft depends on the facts of the case, such as the value of the property taken, the victim’s characteristics (such as if the victim is an elderly or disabled person), and whether force or threats were involved. Additionally, a prior theft record may increase the charge to “petty theft with a prior,” which can be prosecuted as a felony under certain conditions.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Most petty thefts are misdemeanors and can result in:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• A fine of up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or theft prevention classes

If you are facing a petty theft charge in Buena Park, the right legal representation can make a big difference in the outcome of your case. My Rights Law can help you fight these charges and seek a favorable result.

Shoplifting

California Penal Code 459.5(a) defines shoplifting as entering an open business during regular hours with the intention of stealing merchandise worth $950 or less. Even if nothing is actually taken, the intent alone can result in a shoplifting charge. In Buena Park, this offense is prosecuted seriously, but there are often options for first-time offenders or those who acted without criminal intent.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• If you have certain serious or violent prior convictions, shoplifting may be charged as a felony

Shoplifting penalties can sometimes be reduced or dismissed, particularly if this is your first criminal offense. A knowledgeable Buena Park theft attorney can advocate for alternatives to jail, such as diversion programs, or argue for a reduction or dismissal based on the facts of your case.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft is the unlawful taking of property worth more than $950, or certain types of property like firearms, vehicles, or livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft may occur in a single event or as a series of smaller thefts over a period of time. In Buena Park, grand theft is a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on factors such as the defendant’s criminal history and the circumstances of the theft.

Penalties for Grand Theft

The severity of the penalty depends on how the prosecutor charges the offense:

• Misdemeanor grand theft: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony grand theft: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
• Restitution to the victim and possible formal probation

A felony conviction can have life-altering effects, including difficulties securing employment, housing, and possible immigration consequences. If you are facing grand theft charges in Buena Park, it’s critical to work with a skilled theft crime attorney who can fight for a reduction in charges or seek alternative sentencing.

Burglary

California Penal Code 459 makes it a crime to enter any structure, whether residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or another felony. First-degree burglary (residential) is always prosecuted as a felony, while second-degree burglary (commercial) may be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the case. Burglary charges are considered more serious than basic theft because they involve intent prior to entering the property.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential): Always a felony
  • 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
  • Counts as a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary (commercial): “Wobbler” offense
  • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
  • Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Because burglary allegations hinge on proving your intent before entry, an experienced Buena Park defense attorney can often challenge this element, potentially leading to a reduction or dismissal of charges.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, defined under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking or misuse of property that was entrusted to you, often in employment or financial settings. Common examples include employees taking company funds or assets, or individuals misappropriating property belonging to another person or business. Even if the act resulted from a misunderstanding or accounting error, you could still face criminal charges.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property:
• Property under $950: Misdemeanor
• Property over $950: Felony
• May result in restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and loss of professional licenses

The line between a criminal act and an honest mistake can be blurry with embezzlement cases. Having a Buena Park theft lawyer on your side is crucial for building a defense that disproves intent and clarifies the true circumstances behind the accusation.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified a variety of non-violent offenses—including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors. This major reform allows many defendants to receive reduced sentences, or even qualify for resentencing if they were previously convicted under the old laws.

If you are facing felony theft charges in Buena Park, My Rights Law can assess your eligibility for relief under Proposition 47 and work to have your charges reduced to a misdemeanor, protecting your record and your future.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law we use proven strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. The main approaches we utilize include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a key element of theft crimes. If we can show that the alleged act was accidental or due to a misunderstanding, we may achieve a reduction or dismissal of your charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft allegations often rely on unreliable witnesses or unclear video evidence. If your identification is in question, we challenge the accuracy and reliability of the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during any search, stop, or arrest, we can move to suppress the resulting evidence and undermine the prosecution’s argument.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you had permission to use, borrow, or believed you owned the property in question, we will assert these facts to demonstrate no unlawful taking occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For eligible first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in lieu of incarceration
• Theft education courses

These alternatives can help avoid a conviction and keep your criminal record clean. Our focus is always on protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Buena Park Theft Crime Attorney

Being accused of theft in California can impact every part of your life, but it is not the end. With the help of a skilled Buena Park theft crime attorney, you can take action to minimize the consequences. Don’t let the prosecution overwhelm you—be proactive with your defense.

At My Rights Law, our Buena Park theft lawyers have a strong track record of beating charges, negotiating favorable resolutions, and helping clients avoid jail. We are relentless, strategic, and fully committed to defending your rights.

Don’t face these charges alone. Get a theft crime defense attorney Buena Park residents trust with their most serious legal matters.

Call us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One call can make the difference between jail and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Buena Park theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.