Corona Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Corona – Free Strategy Session

Facing a theft charge in Corona can threaten your freedom, your future, and your reputation. Every minute counts when you’re up against theft crime accusations. Whether you are dealing with charges of shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, or any other theft-related offense, the penalties can be severe. Jail time, steep fines, lengthy probation, and even a possible felony record are real risks that can affect every aspect of your life, including employment and housing opportunities.

At My Rights Law, we have extensive experience handling theft cases in California courts and know how to navigate the complexities of the legal system. If you are accused of a theft crime in Corona, reach out to a knowledgeable California theft lawyer at (951) 900-3335 right away. The sooner you act, the better your chances of building a strong defense and protecting your future. Don’t let time work against you—start your defense with us today.

Ready to speak with a Corona theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online.

Common Corona Theft Crimes

Theft crimes in California are classified under various sections of the Penal Code, and the penalties depend on both the nature and the circumstances of the alleged offense. Each category of theft comes with its own legal definitions and consequences, so it’s important to understand the specifics of the charge you are facing. However, at the core of every theft crime is the unlawful taking of property belonging to another person, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.

• 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 law you are accused of violating, My Rights Law understands the unique challenges each case presents. Let’s take a closer look at what these offenses involve and how they might be prosecuted in Corona courts.

Petty Theft

California Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This type of theft most often involves minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other acts where the stolen property is of relatively low value. Petty theft is among the most common theft offenses in Corona and throughout California.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Typically, petty theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor and carries potential consequences such as:

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

The severity of the sentence may depend on several factors, including the nature of the property taken, whether the alleged victim is a vulnerable person, and your prior criminal history. If you have previous theft convictions, you could even face felony charges under “petty theft with a prior.” With experienced legal representation, you can minimize or avoid the harshest penalties, so it’s critical to consult a Corona theft attorney as soon as possible.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering an open business during regular hours with the intention of stealing items worth $950 or less. This charge is distinct from other forms of theft and has its own set of legal consequences.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines and possible restitution to the store owner
• If you have prior convictions for serious or violent crimes, shoplifting can be filed as a felony

If this is your first shoplifting offense in Corona, your attorney may be able to negotiate alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs or a reduction of charges. A knowledgeable theft lawyer can also help seek a dismissal, especially if there are weaknesses in the prosecution’s case or mitigating circumstances that favor leniency.

Grand Theft

Grand theft is described in Penal Code 487(a) as the unlawful taking of property valued at more than $950. This category also applies to theft involving automobiles, firearms, or certain livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft is a more serious charge than petty theft, and the consequences can be significant for those convicted in Corona.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, making it a “wobbler” offense. The possible penalties include:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution, fines, and formal probation

A felony grand theft conviction can have lifelong impacts, including difficulty securing employment, housing, and certain professional licenses. It may also affect your immigration status. That’s why it’s vital to have a skilled Corona theft attorney by your side to analyze the circumstances of your case and fight aggressively to reduce or eliminate felony charges where possible.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 makes it a crime to enter a structure, whether residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or any felony. There are two degrees of burglary: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). The penalties for burglary in Corona depend on the degree charged and the specific facts of your case.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential): Always a felony, with potential sentences of 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison. It is also considered a strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law.
• Second-degree burglary (commercial): Classified as a wobbler
  • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
  • Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Burglary is prosecuted more harshly than other theft crimes because it involves intent prior to entering the property. However, an experienced criminal defense attorney in Corona can often challenge the element of intent or negotiate for a reduction in charges based on the circumstances of your case.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered by Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone entrusted with it—often in a workplace or financial context. Examples include misappropriating funds from an employer or manipulating financial accounts for personal gain.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• The penalties depend on the value of the property:
  • If $950 or less: Typically charged as a misdemeanor
  • If more than $950: Can be prosecuted as a felony
• May include jail or prison time, fines, restitution, and possible loss of professional licenses

Even if your actions were the result of an honest mistake, you can still face embezzlement charges. That’s why it’s essential to have a Corona theft lawyer evaluate your case and craft a strong defense. With professional guidance, you can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and demonstrate your lack of criminal intent, significantly improving your chances of a favorable outcome.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified several non-violent theft-related offenses from felonies to misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less. This important reform affects petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, among other offenses.

As a result, many individuals now qualify for reduced sentencing or even resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws. If you’re facing felony theft charges in Corona, My Rights Law can review your case to determine if you’re eligible for Proposition 47 relief, potentially lowering your charges to misdemeanors and reducing your penalties.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we rely on proven strategies while personalizing our approach to your situation. Common defenses include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a critical component in any theft allegation. If we can show that you acted without intent—due to accident, misunderstanding, or mistake—charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Theft charges frequently depend on questionable video footage or unreliable eyewitness accounts. If you were not clearly identified, we aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement officers violated your constitutional rights during the search, stop, or arrest, we move to exclude that evidence, which can significantly weaken the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, given, or rightfully yours, we’ll use this defense to demonstrate that no crime occurred and there was no unlawful taking.

Diversion and Probation Options

For eligible first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion
• Probation as an alternative to incarceration
• Theft education courses

These solutions can help you avoid a criminal record. Our primary goal is always to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Corona Theft Crime Attorney

Facing a theft charge in California is serious, but it’s not the end. With the right Corona theft attorney, you can fight the consequences and protect your life.

The theft lawyer Corona team at My Rights Law has a track record of reducing charges, achieving favorable results, and keeping our clients out of jail. We are aggressive, strategic, and fully dedicated to defending your rights.

Don’t go through this alone. Get the Corona theft crime defense lawyer clients trust when it matters most.

Call us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can change everything.

Ready to speak with a Corona theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online.