Cypress Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Cypress – Free Strategy Session

Facing a theft charge in Cypress can have a significant impact on your future, reputation, and freedom. Whether you are dealing with accusations of shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, embezzlement, or another type of theft offense, every case brings the risk of jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent mark on your criminal record. In certain situations, the prosecution may pursue felony charges, which could follow you for the rest of your life and affect everything from employment to housing opportunities.

If you or someone you care about has been charged with a theft crime in Cypress, do not delay. Contact an experienced California theft crimes lawyer at (562) 337-3990 as soon as possible. The sooner you get a dedicated legal advocate on your side, the better your chances are for building a strong defense and protecting your rights.

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

Common Cypress Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are outlined in several sections of the California Penal Code, and how your case is prosecuted depends on the facts and seriousness of the alleged offense. Each type of theft charge requires a unique approach to defense, but all theft crimes generally involve taking someone else’s property without consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Cypress, some of the most frequently charged theft crimes 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 law you are facing, our firm has the knowledge and experience to handle your case effectively. Below, we explain what each charge means and how the prosecution might handle your case.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft involves the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This charge most often stems from minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or similar low-value theft incidents. Even though the value involved may seem minor, being convicted of petty theft can result in a permanent criminal record and significantly impact your future opportunities.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor in Cypress, with typical penalties including:

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

Factors such as the circumstances of the offense, the status of the victim (such as a business, elderly, or vulnerable individual), and any prior theft convictions can influence the severity of your sentence. If you have a prior theft record, you may be charged with “petty theft with a prior,” which could result in felony charges and even more severe consequences. Consulting a Cypress theft attorney is essential to minimizing these risks.

Shoplifting

According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial business during normal hours with the intention of stealing goods valued at $950 or less. This charge is common in retail settings and can have serious repercussions on your record if not handled properly.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Generally classified as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in county jail
• Potential court fines and restitution to the merchant
• In cases of previous convictions for serious offenses (like certain violent or sex crimes), the charge may be elevated to a felony

For many first-time offenders in Cypress, there may be opportunities to reduce the charges, pursue alternative sentencing, or even have the case dismissed. Having a knowledgeable theft crime lawyer on your side is crucial for negotiating the best possible outcome.

Grand Theft

Grand theft, as outlined in Penal Code 487(a), is committed when someone unlawfully takes property worth more than $950. This category also covers thefts involving specific types of property, such as automobiles, firearms, or certain livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft is a more serious charge and can dramatically affect your life if not handled correctly.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” in Cypress, which means it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on factors like your criminal history and the specifics of the case:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft carries long-term effects that reach far beyond jail time, impacting employment, housing, and even immigration status. That’s why it’s vital to have a Cypress theft attorney who understands how to challenge felony charges and work to minimize or avoid these penalties entirely.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any building or structure—either residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony once inside. Burglary is categorized as either first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial), with penalties depending on the circumstances.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Burglary is considered more serious than other theft crimes because of the requirement to prove intent before entering the property. A skilled Cypress theft defense attorney can often challenge this element of intent and may be able to reduce or even dismiss the charges, depending on your unique circumstances.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, described under Penal Code 503, occurs when someone who was entrusted with property fraudulently takes or uses it for their own benefit. This is frequently seen in employer-employee relationships or cases involving financial accounts. Even if you believe it was a misunderstanding or honest mistake, you could still face criminal prosecution in Cypress.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Based on the value of property embezzled:
  • Less than $950: Charged as a misdemeanor
  • Over $950: Charged as a felony
• Possible penalties include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and even loss of professional licenses

Embezzlement cases often hinge on whether there was a genuine misunderstanding or malicious intent. Having an experienced Cypress theft attorney on your side is critical to presenting the facts and developing a defense that protects your future, your career, and your reputation.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified many non-violent property crimes—such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property involving $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors. This change means that many people facing theft charges in Cypress may now qualify for reduced sentencing, or even resentencing, if they were convicted before the law changed.

If you are currently dealing with felony theft charges, My Rights Law can review your case for possible Proposition 47 relief, giving you a chance for a lighter sentence or a clean slate. Contact our team to see if you are eligible for Prop 47 benefits and how we can help you take advantage of this law.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case in Cypress is different, but we use proven defense strategies at My Rights Law, always adapting them to the unique facts of your situation. Our primary methods include:

Lack of Intent

The prosecution must prove you intended to commit theft. If we can show your actions were accidental or misunderstood, we can work toward reducing or dismissing the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often rely on questionable video footage or unreliable witnesses. If there is any doubt about your identification, we will vigorously challenge the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your constitutional rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we fight to have that evidence excluded and undermine the prosecutor’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If there is any evidence the property was borrowed, given, or actually belonged to you, we raise this defense to demonstrate that no crime was committed.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as an alternative to jail
• Theft awareness or education programs

These alternatives can keep a conviction off your record and help you move forward with your life. Our mission is to protect your freedom, your name, and your future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Cypress Theft Crime Attorney

Facing a theft charge in California is overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. A skilled Cypress theft crime attorney can help you overcome the legal and personal challenges you face. Don’t let the prosecution overwhelm you with charges and accusations—get experienced help as soon as possible.

At My Rights Law, our Cypress theft lawyers have a strong record of beating cases, negotiating favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail. We are committed, aggressive, and dedicated to defending your rights at every stage.

Don’t face theft allegations alone. Trust the Cypress defense attorney that clients rely on for serious legal battles.

Call us today at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online to set up a free consultation. One call could be the difference between jail time and your freedom.

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