Colton Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Colton – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft offense in Colton places your future and liberty in jeopardy, and every moment counts. Theft crimes come in many forms — from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement — each carrying risks of jail time, fines, and probation. Some charges may be felonies, resulting in a permanent criminal record that impacts your life indefinitely.

If you face theft charges, don’t delay — contact an experienced California theft attorney at (909) 639-2551 immediately. Acting quickly is essential to begin building a strong defense and to help minimize the potential consequences of your case.

Ready to speak with a Colton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 639-2551 or contact us online.

Common Colton Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are categorized under different Penal Code sections, each prosecuted based on the crime’s severity and circumstances. At their core, all theft crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Colton, the theft charges we commonly encounter 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 face, we understand how to approach your defense. Below, we explain what these offenses mean and how they may be prosecuted in your case.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This often includes minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value theft incidents. Petty theft is one of the most common theft-related charges in Colton and can carry significant consequences despite the relatively low value involved.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Usually charged as a misdemeanor, petty theft penalties may include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or attendance in a theft education program

The seriousness of the punishment depends on several factors such as the victim’s status (business, elderly, disabled, or minor), whether force or fear was used, and your prior criminal record. Repeat offenses can lead to enhanced charges, such as petty theft with a prior, which in some cases may be charged as a felony with much harsher penalties.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a commercial business during regular hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. This charge targets relatively minor thefts but still carries serious legal consequences.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Generally charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and potential restitution to the victim
• If you have prior convictions for serious crimes, shoplifting can be elevated to a felony charge

For first-time offenders, there is a good chance to negotiate reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options. An experienced Colton theft attorney can work to minimize the consequences, seek dismissals, or arrange for diversion programs tailored to your case.

Grand Theft

Per Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when stolen property exceeds a value of $950. This charge also applies to thefts involving firearms, vehicles, or certain types of livestock. Grand theft is a more serious offense with potential long-term impacts.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony based on circumstances:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution payments and formal probation may be required

A felony conviction for grand theft can significantly affect your future beyond the courtroom, including employment difficulties, housing challenges, and immigration consequences. To protect your rights and lessen these risks, you need a knowledgeable theft attorney in Colton who understands how to defend against felony charges.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as unlawfully entering a structure, whether residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Burglary is classified as either first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial).

Penalties for Burglary

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

Burglary charges carry severe penalties because the law presumes intent to commit a crime at the time of entry. However, a skilled Colton defense attorney can challenge this element, potentially reducing charges or obtaining dismissal altogether.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under Penal Code 503, refers to the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it, often occurring in employment or financial account contexts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges vary depending on the value of the property:
• Under $950: Usually a misdemeanor
• Over $950: Felony charges
• Penalties may include restitution, fines, incarceration, and professional consequences

Embezzlement charges can arise even from misunderstandings or accounting errors. The best defense is to hire a theft lawyer in Colton who can prove a lack of malicious intent and present a clear factual explanation to protect your rights and future.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses, including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property valued at $950 or less, from felonies to misdemeanors.

This law allows many defendants to seek reduced sentences or resentencing if they were previously convicted under harsher felony classifications.

If you face felony theft charges, our law firm can review your case for Proposition 47 eligibility and advocate for misdemeanor treatment to minimize your penalties.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but we apply proven strategies at My Rights Law tailored specifically to your situation. Key approaches include:

Lack of Intent

The foundation of any theft charge is intent. By proving your actions were accidental or misunderstood, we aim to reduce or dismiss charges entirely.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often hinge on unclear video footage or unreliable witnesses. If you are not positively identified, we can challenge the validity of the case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during a search or arrest, we will fight to exclude that evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or belongs to you, we will use this defense to show no unlawful taking occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, options may include:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Theft prevention education

These alternatives help avoid convictions and keep your record clean. Our priority is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Colton Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in Colton can feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end. A skilled Colton theft crime attorney can help minimize the impact on your life.

At My Rights Law, our dedicated team has a strong record of beating charges, negotiating favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail.

Don’t handle this alone. Trust a theft defense lawyer Colton residents rely on for serious legal battles.

Call us now at (909) 639-2551 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could mean the difference between jail and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Colton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 639-2551 or contact us online.