Compton Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Compton – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Compton can place your freedom, reputation, and future in serious jeopardy. Whether you’re facing charges for petty theft, burglary, grand theft, or any other theft-related offense, the penalties can be severe. These may include jail or prison time, hefty fines, and lasting consequences on your criminal record. In certain cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that stay with you for life, impacting employment, housing, and more.

Don’t wait for things to spiral further. At My Rights Law, we understand how the criminal justice system operates and how theft cases are built and prosecuted. Our firm is ready to act swiftly and strategically on your behalf. Call a seasoned Compton theft attorney at (562) 337-3990 right now. Your best defense begins with early action.

Ready to speak with a Compton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online.

Common Compton Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are outlined across multiple sections of the California Penal Code. Each offense is handled according to the nature of the act, the value of the property, and the intent of the accused. Still, all theft charges share a common definition: the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

In Compton, our legal team frequently defends clients against a wide range of theft-related accusations, including but not limited to:

• 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 charge you’re up against, our experienced criminal defense attorneys at My Rights Law will break down the legal terminology and guide you through every step. We know what’s at stake and how to mount the strongest possible defense.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code §484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property valued at $950 or less. These offenses are generally non-violent and may include acts such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or stealing unattended items. While considered a less serious theft charge, the consequences of a petty theft conviction in Compton can still be significant and may follow you for years, especially if not properly addressed by an experienced attorney.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Typically, petty theft is charged as a misdemeanor and may include penalties such as:

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

If aggravating factors are present — such as theft involving a vulnerable victim or prior theft-related convictions — the charges may be elevated. For repeat offenders, prosecutors may pursue a “petty theft with a prior” charge, which can be filed as a felony and result in a much harsher sentence. My Rights Law in Compton is ready to help you avoid these outcomes by aggressively fighting for your rights.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is addressed under Penal Code §459.5(a), which defines it as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal items worth $950 or less. Unlike traditional burglary charges, shoplifting under this law applies only to thefts that occur during business hours and are under the threshold amount. In Compton, shoplifting cases are common and often arise from misunderstandings or split-second poor decisions.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in county jail
• Court-imposed fines and restitution to the store
• Felony upgrade possible with prior serious or violent convictions

First-time shoplifting offenders may be eligible for diversion programs, dismissal, or reduced sentencing. At My Rights Law, we use proven legal tactics to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and negotiate favorable resolutions, including avoiding jail time altogether. If you’re facing shoplifting charges in Compton, don’t delay in securing skilled legal help.

Grand Theft

California Penal Code §487(a) classifies theft as grand theft when the value of the stolen property exceeds $950, or when specific items such as firearms, vehicles, or livestock are involved. Grand theft may involve more sophisticated planning or greater financial impact than petty theft. It can occur in a variety of scenarios — including employee theft, identity theft, or even misuse of entrusted property.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances of the case:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
• Additional penalties: restitution, probation, and a permanent criminal record

A felony grand theft conviction can have long-lasting consequences, including problems finding work, qualifying for housing, or maintaining your immigration status. A seasoned Compton theft attorney from My Rights Law can evaluate the facts of your case and build a defense to reduce or dismiss the charges altogether, especially if there is no prior criminal history or if the theft resulted from a misunderstanding.

Burglary

Penal Code §459 defines burglary as entering any structure — residential or commercial — with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary is classified into two types: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (non-residential or commercial). The key element that differentiates burglary from other theft-related crimes is that the intent to commit a crime must exist at the time of entry.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Since burglary involves the presumption of intent prior to entering a property, your defense will depend heavily on disproving that intent. Our Compton legal team can challenge the prosecution’s narrative, argue for lesser charges, or expose flaws in their case to protect your record and your freedom.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered under Penal Code §503, occurs when someone fraudulently appropriates property that was lawfully entrusted to them. This crime is common in professional environments where employees or fiduciaries have access to financial accounts or assets. Unlike other types of theft, embezzlement involves a breach of trust, often making these cases more complex and sensitive.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of property involved
• Under $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• Over $950: Can be charged as a felony
• May also include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and loss of professional licenses

Even if you didn’t mean to commit a crime, you can still face charges for embezzlement due to misunderstandings or accounting errors. At My Rights Law in Compton, we take a detailed approach to uncover the facts, establish lack of intent, and work to protect your professional reputation. Our goal is to minimize the impact of these allegations on your career and future.

Proposition 47

California voters approved Proposition 47 in 2014, significantly changing how non-violent theft crimes are charged. The law reclassified many low-level felonies — including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property — as misdemeanors when the value of the property is $950 or less.

This reform allows many individuals who were previously convicted of felony theft crimes to seek reduced charges or resentencing. It also provides first-time offenders with a greater opportunity to avoid long-term criminal records and incarceration.

If you’ve been charged with a theft-related felony in Compton, My Rights Law can evaluate your eligibility under Prop 47. We will work to reduce your charges to a misdemeanor whenever possible, preserving your record and limiting future consequences.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is different, but our Compton defense lawyers apply time-tested strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. These include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a crucial element in any theft charge. If we can demonstrate that your actions were accidental or due to a misunderstanding, we may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Many theft accusations rely on unclear video footage or unreliable witness statements. If you were misidentified, we can challenge the validity of the evidence and question the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during a search, seizure, or arrest, we can move to suppress the evidence and potentially have your case thrown out.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

When property was borrowed, given as a gift, or is rightfully yours, we can argue that no theft took place due to a lack of unlawful intent or action.

Diversion and Probation Options

First-time offenders may be eligible for:

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

These alternatives can help avoid a criminal conviction and protect your future. Our priority is safeguarding your freedom and your reputation.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Compton Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in Compton can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled theft crime attorney can reduce the impact on your life.

At My Rights Law, our Compton defense team has a strong record of beating theft charges, securing reduced penalties, and keeping clients out of jail. We are aggressive, strategic, and fully committed to your defense.

Don’t navigate this challenge alone. Hire a Compton theft lawyer trusted for handling serious criminal cases.

Call us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call could change everything.

Ready to speak with a Compton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online.