Encino Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Encino – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Encino puts your freedom, reputation, and future at serious risk. These cases are time-sensitive, and acting quickly is crucial. There are many types of theft-related offenses in California, such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, and embezzlement. Any of these charges may lead to harsh legal consequences—ranging from probation and jail time to large fines and a permanent criminal record that could impact your employment and housing opportunities.

In more severe situations, prosecutors can pursue felony theft charges, which remain on your criminal history for life. Regardless of the charge, a strong legal defense is critical to improving your chances of a favorable outcome. If you’re facing theft allegations, now is the time to take legal action. Contact an experienced Encino theft attorney at (747) 249 5077. The earlier you begin your defense, the better we can protect your rights and fight for a dismissal or reduction of your charges.

Ready to speak with a Encino theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.

Common Encino Theft Crimes

Theft offenses are covered under different sections of the California Penal Code, and they vary significantly depending on the circumstances and value of the property involved. Despite the differences, theft crimes are generally defined as the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. These crimes must be handled on a case-by-case basis, as penalties and legal strategies will differ depending on the specific charge.

Some of the most frequent theft crime charges we handle in Encino 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

Whatever the specific Penal Code section involved, we understand the legal complexities and know how to build a powerful defense. Below, we explain what each of these charges means and how they are commonly prosecuted in Encino courts.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft involves the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. These offenses typically include actions such as shoplifting, minor thefts from individuals or businesses, or picking up unattended items without the intent to return them. Despite the seemingly minor nature of these crimes, being convicted can have long-lasting legal and personal consequences.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is usually prosecuted as a misdemeanor, and potential penalties include:

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

Penalties can become more severe depending on the victim involved, whether force or fear was used, or if the accused has prior convictions. In some cases, repeat offenders may be charged with petty theft with a prior, which could escalate the crime to a felony. A knowledgeable Encino theft lawyer can fight to minimize or avoid these penalties altogether.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial business during normal hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Even if no item is actually taken, the intent to steal is enough to warrant criminal charges under this section.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Fines, court fees, and possible restitution to the business
• Felony charges possible for individuals with past serious or violent felonies

First-time offenders in Encino may qualify for alternative sentencing, such as diversion programs or probation. A theft attorney from My Rights Law can work to reduce charges, seek alternative resolutions, or push for dismissal entirely, especially when intent is unclear or improperly alleged.

Grand Theft

Penal Code 487(a) defines grand theft as the unlawful taking of property valued over $950. However, this charge may also apply to theft involving firearms, vehicles, or certain types of livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft often occurs in more complex situations and can include embezzlement, fraud, or large-scale shoplifting schemes.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is classified as a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the case specifics:

• 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 follow you for years, affecting employment, housing, and even immigration status. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Encino theft attorney who can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge evidence, or work toward reducing the charge to a misdemeanor or securing an outright dismissal.

Burglary

According to Penal Code 459, burglary occurs when someone enters a building with the intent to commit theft or another felony. This applies to homes, businesses, and even vehicles. First-degree burglary refers to residential properties and is always a felony, while second-degree burglary usually involves commercial premises and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Prosecutors must prove that you intended to steal before entering the building, which is often difficult. An Encino criminal defense lawyer can challenge this intent element, argue for lesser charges, or seek to get your case dismissed entirely.

Embezzlement

Penal Code 503 defines embezzlement as the fraudulent appropriation of property or money by someone entrusted with it. It often arises in employment or financial settings, where an employee or manager is accused of misusing company resources or funds. Even misunderstandings, clerical errors, or poor recordkeeping can result in embezzlement accusations.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Less than $950: Misdemeanor (similar to petty theft)
• Over $950: Felony with up to 3 years in prison
• May involve restitution, probation, fines, and damage to professional reputation

Since embezzlement cases rely heavily on proving intent and breach of trust, these charges can often be contested. An experienced Encino theft lawyer can analyze documentation, uncover inconsistencies, and present a defense based on lack of intent or miscommunication to help protect your record and livelihood.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent theft-related offenses from felonies to misdemeanors when the value of stolen property is $950 or less. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and possession of stolen property.

As a result, many individuals currently facing felony charges—or those already convicted—may be eligible for reduced sentencing or resentencing under this law.

If you’re accused of a theft crime in Encino, My Rights Law can assess your eligibility for Proposition 47 relief and work to secure a reduction or dismissal of your charges.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but My Rights Law applies proven strategies customized to your unique situation. Common defense approaches include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a crucial element in any theft crime. If we can demonstrate that the act was accidental or due to a misunderstanding, your charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Many theft allegations rely on unreliable eyewitnesses or low-quality surveillance. If your identification is questionable, we’ll challenge the evidence aggressively.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your rights during a search or arrest, we’ll move to suppress the evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case significantly.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property in question was borrowed, given to you, or legally yours, we’ll present this as a defense to show no theft occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenses, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion
• Probation in place of incarceration
• Theft prevention courses

These alternatives can keep your record clean and help avoid a criminal conviction. Our priority is to protect your freedom, future, and name.

Protect Your Future – Contact an Encino Theft Crime Attorney

Theft charges in California are serious, but they don’t have to define your life. An experienced Encino theft crime attorney can help you overcome them. At My Rights Law, we fight to reduce penalties, dismiss charges, and protect your record.

We know what’s at stake. Our Encino theft attorneys are committed to defending your rights with proven strategies and relentless dedication.

Don’t go through this alone. Call (747) 249 5077 or contact us today for a free case evaluation. Your future is worth the call.

Ready to speak with a Encino theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.