Coachella Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Coachella – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Coachella puts your future and your reputation at risk. Time is critical, as any theft allegation—whether it’s shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, or embezzlement—can result in serious consequences. You could be facing jail time, substantial fines, probation, or even a felony on your permanent criminal record. These penalties can follow you for the rest of your life, affecting employment, housing, and more.

When you are accused of a theft crime, it’s essential to act immediately. Reach out to an experienced California theft attorney at (760) 340-7190. The earlier you begin your defense, the more options you will have to challenge the prosecution and work toward the best possible outcome. Let My Rights Law help you protect your rights and minimize the impact of theft crime charges in Coachella.

Ready to speak with a Coachella theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (760) 340-7190 or contact us online.

Common Coachella Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California take many forms under the Penal Code. The nature and seriousness of your charge depend on the circumstances, the value of the property involved, and other case-specific details. However, all theft crimes share the common element of unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it permanently or temporarily. Each charge is handled differently by the legal system, and understanding the exact accusation is key to your defense.

• 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 statute you are facing, we have the knowledge and experience to fight for you. Below, we’ll explain each type of theft crime and how it may be prosecuted in Coachella.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Common examples include minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or the theft of low-value items from individuals or businesses. While these offenses might seem minor, the consequences can still be significant if you are convicted.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Most often, petty theft is charged as a misdemeanor, with penalties that may include:

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

The severity of your punishment will depend on various factors such as the value of the stolen property, who the victim is (a business, a senior citizen, a minor, etc.), and whether force or intimidation was used. If you have prior theft convictions, the prosecution may try to charge you with “petty theft with a prior,” which could even be filed as a felony with much more severe penalties. With a skilled Coachella theft attorney by your side, you may be able to minimize or avoid these consequences.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial business during regular hours intending to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This charge is unique to retail theft and is separate from more serious burglary charges.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Maximum penalty of six months in county jail
• Court fines and possible restitution to the store
• If you have certain serious prior convictions, it may be charged as a felony

If this is your first offense, a skilled theft attorney in Coachella can argue for an alternative sentence, such as diversion or dismissal, instead of jail time. Repeat offenses or previous convictions for violent crimes could increase the severity of the charges. Legal representation is essential to achieve the best possible outcome.

Grand Theft

Under PC 487(a), grand theft is defined as the theft of property valued over $950. This can also include cases involving the theft of firearms, vehicles, or certain types of livestock. Grand theft is a more serious charge and, depending on the circumstances, may be filed as either a misdemeanor or a felony—a so-called “wobbler” offense.

Penalties for Grand Theft

The punishment for grand theft in Coachella can be severe, varying based on how the crime is charged:

• Misdemeanor grand theft: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony grand theft: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution to the victim and formal probation may also be ordered

Being convicted of felony grand theft has far-reaching consequences beyond jail time, including loss of employment opportunities, difficulties securing housing, and possible immigration complications. If you or a loved one is facing grand theft charges in Coachella, having an experienced defense attorney is crucial to fight for a reduction or dismissal of charges and to protect your future.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering a building, whether residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or another felony. California distinguishes between first-degree burglary (residential) and second-degree burglary (commercial).

Penalties for Burglary

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

Burglaries are treated seriously because they involve entering with criminal intent before any theft or felony even occurs. However, there are defenses to challenge the intent element, and an experienced Coachella theft attorney can work to reduce or even dismiss burglary charges by attacking the evidence and elements of the crime.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, as defined under PC 503, is the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it, often arising in employer-employee relationships or situations involving financial accounts. Many cases start as misunderstandings or accounting errors, but they can quickly escalate to criminal charges if not handled properly.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Punished based on the value of property taken
  • Less than $950: Usually a misdemeanor
  • More than $950: Can be charged as a felony
• Restitution to the victim, fines, and potential jail or prison sentences
• Possible loss of professional licenses and future employment opportunities

Because embezzlement cases often involve complex financial documents and trust relationships, it is critical to have an experienced Coachella theft lawyer on your side. The right defense can show there was no intent to commit a crime and help you resolve the matter favorably, keeping your record clear and protecting your career.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, enacted in 2014, reclassified a range of non-violent offenses—including many theft crimes such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors.

As a result, many individuals facing these charges are now eligible for reduced sentences or can petition for resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws.

If you’re facing a felony theft charge in Coachella, our experienced attorneys can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief, helping you pursue a misdemeanor outcome and a brighter future.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case in Coachella is unique, but My Rights Law applies proven strategies while tailoring our defense to your specific circumstances. Common tactics we use include:

Lack of Intent

One of the most important elements of a theft charge is criminal intent. If we can show there was no intent to steal—perhaps it was an accident or misunderstanding—charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often depend on unreliable eyewitnesses or low-quality surveillance footage. If your identification is questionable, we can challenge the evidence and the prosecution’s entire case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If your rights were violated during a stop, search, or arrest, we fight to have evidence suppressed, which can significantly weaken the prosecutor’s position.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If there’s proof the property was borrowed, gifted, or legally yours, we highlight this to show there was no theft, aiming to get charges dropped.

Diversion and Probation Options

For many first-time offenders, we can seek alternatives such as:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation rather than jail time
• Theft education courses

These options are designed to help you avoid a conviction and keep your record clear. Our mission is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Coachella Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California is tough, but it doesn’t have to define your future. An experienced Coachella theft crime attorney can help minimize the consequences. Don’t let prosecutors overwhelm you—get skilled legal support now.

The My Rights Law team in Coachella has a strong history of fighting charges, negotiating positive outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail. We are relentless, strategic, and fully dedicated to your defense.

Don’t go through this alone. Choose a defense attorney for theft crimes that Coachella residents trust with their most challenging cases.

Call us at (760) 340-7190 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call can make the difference between jail time and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Coachella theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (760) 340-7190 or contact us online.