Burbank Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Burbank – Free Strategy Session

Facing a theft charge in Burbank can threaten your future, your freedom, and your reputation. Whether you are accused of shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, or embezzlement, the consequences can be severe. A conviction can result in jail time, steep fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record that may affect your ability to find employment or housing. In certain cases, theft charges can even be elevated to felony offenses with lifelong repercussions.

At My Rights Law, we understand how overwhelming and urgent these cases can be. That’s why our experienced Burbank theft attorneys take immediate action to protect your rights and craft a personalized defense strategy that reflects your situation. Don’t wait—your freedom may depend on fast and strategic legal representation. Call a skilled theft defense attorney today at (747) 201 4248 to schedule a free and confidential consultation.

Ready to speak with a Burbank theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 201 4248 or contact us online.

Common Burbank Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are governed by various sections of the Penal Code, and each charge has distinct elements and potential penalties. The core definition shared across these charges is the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intention of permanently depriving them of it. Depending on the type of theft and the circumstances involved—such as the value of the stolen property or prior convictions—prosecutors may charge these crimes as misdemeanors or felonies.

Here are some of the most frequently filed theft crimes in Burbank:

• 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 what theft crime you are facing, My Rights Law has the knowledge and experience to handle it. Below, we’ll explain each of these offenses in greater detail and how they are treated under California law.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft occurs when someone unlawfully takes property valued at $950 or less. These incidents usually involve actions such as minor shoplifting, stealing unattended personal items, or other low-value thefts. Although the amount may be small, a conviction can still leave a lasting mark on your criminal record and impact your future.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Most petty theft cases are charged as misdemeanors and can carry the following penalties:

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

The actual consequences depend on a variety of circumstances, including the value of the property, any aggravating factors like the identity of the victim (e.g., a senior or dependent adult), and whether force or threats were involved. If you have prior theft-related convictions, prosecutors might elevate the charge to “petty theft with a prior,” which can be filed as a felony and lead to significantly harsher consequences. Our experienced Burbank theft attorneys can help reduce or dismiss these charges.

Shoplifting

California Penal Code 459.5(a) defines shoplifting as entering an open business during normal hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. It doesn’t matter whether you actually succeeded in taking the item—having the intent alone is enough to be charged.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Court-imposed fines and possible restitution
• Prior convictions for serious or violent felonies may elevate the charge to a felony

For first-time offenders in Burbank, there may be alternatives to jail time. Our theft crime lawyers can negotiate for options such as diversion programs, reduced charges, or even dismissal of the case entirely, depending on the details of your situation.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code 487(a), a theft is considered grand theft when the value of the property taken exceeds $950. It can also apply to certain items regardless of their monetary value, such as firearms, automobiles, or livestock. Unlike petty theft, grand theft reflects a higher level of severity and can carry much more serious consequences.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” under California law, meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony. Potential punishments include:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution to the victim and possible formal probation

A felony conviction can affect every part of your life—from job opportunities to housing and even immigration status. That’s why it’s essential to have a knowledgeable Burbank theft attorney on your side who can evaluate the evidence, challenge the charges, and fight for the best outcome possible.

Burglary

California Penal Code 459 classifies burglary as entering any structure, whether residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or another felony once inside. There are two types of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial or other buildings).

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is a felony and includes:
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• It is considered a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary is a wobbler and may result in:
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Burglary charges are aggressively prosecuted because they involve criminal intent before even entering the building. However, intent is also the weakest link in many burglary cases. A strategic defense led by a Burbank criminal lawyer can challenge this element and help get the charges reduced or dismissed.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under California Penal Code 503, occurs when someone fraudulently appropriates property that was legally entrusted to them. These cases often arise in the context of employment or financial management, where an individual misuses company or client funds.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the amount taken:
• Under $950: Usually a misdemeanor
• Over $950: May be charged as a felony
• Potential consequences include restitution, fines, incarceration, and damage to professional reputation

Even honest mistakes in accounting or misunderstandings with finances can result in embezzlement charges. That’s why it’s crucial to have a theft attorney in Burbank who can analyze your case and present compelling evidence that no criminal intent was involved. Our legal team at My Rights Law can help protect your rights and your career.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed in 2014, significantly changed California’s criminal landscape by reducing many non-violent theft-related offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. Crimes like petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property are now eligible for reduced charges if the value involved is $950 or less.

This law has allowed many individuals to avoid lengthy jail sentences and, in some cases, petition for resentencing if previously convicted under harsher statutes.

If you’re facing theft-related charges in Burbank or want to explore whether Prop 47 can help modify a past conviction, My Rights Law is ready to review your case and guide you through the legal process.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but we rely on proven strategies at My Rights Law and tailor them to your exact situation. Our main defenses include:

Lack of Intent

A key element in theft charges is intent. If we can prove the act was accidental or based on misunderstanding, your charges may be dismissed or reduced.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations are often based on unreliable witnesses or unclear surveillance. If your identification is uncertain, we can challenge the foundation of the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

When officers violate your Fourth Amendment rights, any evidence they collect may be inadmissible. We use this to weaken or dismiss the charges against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legitimately yours, we can demonstrate there was no criminal act, only a misunderstanding over ownership.

Diversion and Probation Options

First-time offenders may qualify for alternatives like:

• Pretrial diversion
• Supervised probation
• Theft education courses

These alternatives can keep your record clean and help you move forward without jail time.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Burbank Theft Crime Attorney

Theft charges in California can disrupt your career, reputation, and relationships. But you don’t have to face them alone. A skilled Burbank theft crime attorney can help reduce or eliminate the consequences you face.

At My Rights Law, we’ve successfully defended clients by challenging the evidence, negotiating with prosecutors, and securing favorable resolutions. We fight hard so you don’t have to pay the price for a single accusation.

Reach out today. Call (747) 201 4248 or contact us online for a free case evaluation. Let’s protect your rights and restore your future—starting now.

Ready to speak with a Burbank theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 201 4248 or contact us online.