Chatsworth Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Chatsworth – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Chatsworth is a serious matter that puts your reputation, freedom, and future at risk. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested. Whether the allegation involves shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, the potential consequences may include jail time, expensive fines, probation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. In many cases, prosecutors pursue felony charges that carry long-lasting implications and limit your future opportunities.

If you’ve been accused of a theft-related offense, don’t delay. You need a strong legal advocate on your side. Contact an experienced California theft crimes attorney at (747) 249 5077. Acting quickly could mean the difference between a reduced charge, a dismissal, or a life-altering conviction. Let My Rights Law help you build a powerful defense and protect your future starting today.

Ready to speak with a Chatsworth theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.

Common Chatsworth Theft Crimes

The California Penal Code outlines many types of theft crimes, each carrying its own legal definitions and penalties depending on the circumstances and value involved. No matter how minor or major the charge may seem, every theft offense should be taken seriously. At the core of these laws is one principle — the unlawful taking of property that belongs to someone else, with the intention of permanently depriving them of it.

Below are some of the most common theft-related charges handled by our Chatsworth criminal defense team:

• 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

Regardless of the statute you’ve been charged under, our legal team has the experience and resources to fight aggressively on your behalf. Below, we’ll explain each offense in more detail and how it might be prosecuted.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code Section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Common examples include low-value shoplifting, theft of personal items, or other minor acts of stealing. Though it may seem like a small matter, a petty theft charge can lead to serious legal consequences and a lasting criminal record. If you’ve been accused of petty theft in Chatsworth, it’s important to treat the matter seriously and get legal counsel right away.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is usually prosecuted as a misdemeanor and penalties may include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• A fine of up to $1,000
• Probation, restitution, or participation in a theft education class

The actual punishment can vary based on the nature of the offense and whether aggravating factors are present—such as the identity of the victim or any use of force. If you have prior theft-related convictions, the prosecution may pursue a “petty theft with a prior,” which can be charged as a felony and carry more severe consequences. An experienced Chatsworth theft attorney can help mitigate or eliminate these risks.

Shoplifting

California Penal Code 459.5(a) defines shoplifting as entering a store during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is distinct from burglary because it happens during open hours and typically involves small-scale theft. Despite the relatively low value involved, the consequences of a shoplifting conviction can be serious—especially for repeat offenders or those with prior felony convictions.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines and potential restitution to the retailer
• Felony charges if the defendant has a criminal history of violent or serious felonies

First-time offenders in Chatsworth often have options such as diversion programs, alternative sentencing, or even a case dismissal. My Rights Law will work to negotiate the most favorable outcome in your shoplifting case, whether that’s reduced penalties or avoiding a conviction altogether.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code Section 487(a), grand theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property or money exceeding $950 in value. It also includes theft involving certain items like motor vehicles, firearms, or livestock—regardless of their actual value. Grand theft is treated much more seriously than petty theft, and the way it is charged can significantly affect your future. If you’re facing grand theft charges in Chatsworth, you need a skilled legal advocate on your side immediately.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense, meaning it may be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the specific facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution, formal probation, and additional court-ordered penalties

A felony conviction for grand theft can be life-altering. It can hinder job prospects, housing opportunities, and even immigration status. A proactive defense from an experienced Chatsworth theft crime attorney is critical to either getting charges reduced or fighting for an acquittal in court.

Burglary

Burglary is defined under Penal Code 459 as entering a building or structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony once inside. There are two types of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). Both carry serious legal consequences, especially first-degree burglary, which is considered a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law. If you’re accused of burglary in Chatsworth, you need experienced legal representation as early as possible.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential): Always a felony
  • 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
  • Strike under the 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

What distinguishes burglary from other theft offenses is the intent prior to entering the building. This element can often be challenged by a skilled Chatsworth criminal defense lawyer, which may result in a dismissal or reduction of the charges.

Embezzlement

Penal Code 503 defines embezzlement as the fraudulent taking or use of property by a person who has been entrusted with it. This crime often occurs in employment settings or situations where someone has access to financial resources or company property. In Chatsworth, embezzlement charges can range from a minor misdemeanor to a serious felony based on the amount involved and the circumstances of the alleged act.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charged based on the value of the misappropriated property:
  • Less than $950: Misdemeanor
  • Over $950: Felony
• May include jail or prison time, fines, restitution, and damage to professional reputation

Many embezzlement cases stem from misunderstandings or clerical errors, but the law doesn’t always account for those nuances. That’s why you need a theft attorney in Chatsworth who can thoroughly investigate the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claims, and show that no criminal intent was present. At My Rights Law, we build strong defenses to protect your name and your future.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed by California voters in 2014, reclassified certain non-violent theft-related crimes—such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—as misdemeanors if the value involved is $950 or less. This reform has significantly reduced the severity of sentencing for many first-time and non-violent offenders.

Thanks to Prop 47, many individuals previously convicted of felony theft offenses may now be eligible for reduced charges or resentencing. This change in the law also impacts how current cases are prosecuted and offers additional legal strategies for defense.

If you are currently facing felony theft charges in Chatsworth, My Rights Law can assess whether Proposition 47 may apply to your case. We can file the necessary motions to have your charges reduced or your sentence reconsidered, giving you a second chance and helping you avoid long-term consequences.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is different. At My Rights Law, we apply proven strategies that are tailored to fit your unique situation. Our common defenses include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is key in any theft allegation. If we can demonstrate that you did not intend to steal—perhaps due to a misunderstanding or mistake—we may get charges reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Eyewitness accounts and surveillance can be unreliable. If you were falsely identified, we’ll aggressively challenge the evidence to protect you from a wrongful conviction.

Illegal Search and Seizure

When law enforcement violates your constitutional rights during a stop or search, we can seek to have the evidence thrown out—weakening or collapsing the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the item in question was loaned, gifted, or belonged to you, we can argue that no theft occurred due to a lack of criminal intent.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenses, we may seek:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in lieu of jail
• Theft education or counseling

These alternatives can keep your record clean and help you avoid jail time. Our mission is to protect your freedom, your future, and your name.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Chatsworth Theft Crime Attorney

Theft charges in California can feel overwhelming and threaten every part of your life. But with a skilled Chatsworth theft crime attorney on your side, the damage can be minimized or even avoided entirely.

At My Rights Law, our attorneys have a strong record of dismissals, plea deals, and successful trial defenses. We fight hard to shield our clients from the harshest outcomes of the criminal justice system.

Don’t go through this alone. Get a theft crime defense lawyer Chatsworth residents trust in serious legal matters.

Call us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One call could make the difference between a conviction and a clean slate.

Ready to speak with a Chatsworth theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.