Fullerton Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Fullerton – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft crime charges in Fullerton is a serious matter that can threaten both your freedom and your future. Whether you’re accused of shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, embezzlement, or another type of theft offense, the consequences can be severe. Jail time, heavy fines, probation, and even felony convictions that remain on your criminal record for life are all possible outcomes. The stakes are high, and every theft case carries its own challenges.

If you or a loved one has been accused of a theft crime, it’s critical to act quickly. The sooner you involve an experienced Fullerton theft attorney, the more options you have for a strong defense. My Rights Law has the skill and dedication to protect your rights and build a strategy tailored to your unique case. Don’t hesitate—call our office at (657) 378-7278 to start defending your rights today. Time is of the essence in theft crime cases, and having knowledgeable legal counsel on your side makes all the difference.

Ready to speak with a Fullerton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.

Common Fullerton Theft Crimes

Theft offenses are defined in several sections of the California Penal Code. The way a theft case is prosecuted in Fullerton depends on many factors, such as the value of property involved and specific circumstances of the alleged crime. But at their core, all theft crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to steal. Each theft crime has unique elements, penalties, and legal defenses, making it important to have a knowledgeable theft lawyer in your corner.

• 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 statute you’re facing, My Rights Law is prepared to help you navigate your defense. Let’s take a closer look at what these theft charges mean and how they might be prosecuted in Fullerton.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) classifies petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This category commonly covers minor shoplifting, picking pockets, or stealing low-value items. Petty theft is one of the most frequently prosecuted theft crimes in Fullerton and can carry significant consequences, especially for those with a prior criminal record.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Typically, petty theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor and carries the following possible penalties:

• Up to 6 months in Orange County jail
• A fine not exceeding $1,000
• Probation, mandatory community service, or participation in theft education programs

The severity of the penalty depends on the value of the stolen property and circumstances of the offense, such as who the victim is and whether force or fear was used. For those with prior theft convictions, the prosecution may seek enhanced penalties and, in certain situations, can charge petty theft as a felony. Retaining a skilled Fullerton theft attorney can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Shoplifting

Under PC 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This crime is distinct from burglary and focuses on theft committed in retail settings, including grocery stores and shopping centers throughout Fullerton.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually prosecuted as a misdemeanor
• Maximum of 6 months in jail
• Possible fines and restitution to the merchant
• Prior convictions for serious felonies (such as murder or certain sex offenses) can elevate shoplifting to a felony

For first-time offenders, the court may consider leniency, such as diversion programs or alternative sentencing. An experienced theft lawyer in Fullerton can negotiate for reduced penalties or, in some cases, secure a case dismissal, especially when mitigating factors exist.

Grand Theft

According to PC 487(a), grand theft occurs when property valued at over $950 is stolen, or in cases involving firearms, vehicles, or specific types of livestock. Grand theft charges are taken seriously by Fullerton prosecutors and may arise from single or multiple theft incidents that, when combined, exceed the $950 threshold.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense in California, which means it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances, criminal record, and value of the stolen items:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Possible restitution and formal probation

A felony conviction can carry lifelong consequences, impacting employment, professional licensing, housing, and even immigration status. If you or a loved one faces grand theft charges, it’s critical to consult with a Fullerton theft crime attorney who can develop an aggressive defense strategy and work toward minimizing or eliminating the penalties.

Burglary

PC 459 defines burglary as entering any building or structure—whether residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or another felony. There are two degrees: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) burglary, both prosecuted rigorously in Fullerton courts.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential) is 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) is a wobbler
  • Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
  • Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

Burglary is punished more severely than most theft crimes due to the intent element. However, a knowledgeable Fullerton criminal defense lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence regarding intent and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges, depending on the case details.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered by PC 503, occurs when someone entrusted with another’s property fraudulently takes or uses it for their own benefit. This often arises in employment, financial, or business relationships in Fullerton, and even misunderstandings or bookkeeping mistakes can lead to criminal charges.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Punishment depends on the value of property taken
  • Less than $950: Prosecuted as a misdemeanor
  • Over $950: May be filed as a felony
• Possible penalties include restitution, court fines, jail or prison time, and professional discipline

Because intent is a key element, it’s essential to have a skilled Fullerton theft attorney on your side to help demonstrate a lack of criminal intent or clarify honest mistakes, potentially leading to case reduction or dismissal. Don’t let an accusation of embezzlement jeopardize your future—seek experienced legal representation right away.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent property crimes—such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—when the value is $950 or less, from felonies to misdemeanors. This law has provided an opportunity for many defendants in Fullerton to receive reduced sentences or even apply for resentencing on past convictions that would now be classified as misdemeanors.

If you’re facing a theft crime charge that may qualify under Prop 47, My Rights Law can review your case and seek a reduction from felony to misdemeanor, minimizing the long-term consequences and allowing you to move forward with your life.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we utilize proven defense strategies tailored to your situation. The primary tactics we employ include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a crucial element in theft cases. If we can show there was no intent to steal—such as an accident or misunderstanding—charges may be reduced or dismissed entirely.

Mistaken Identity

Theft allegations frequently rely on faulty video evidence or unreliable witness testimony. If your identification is uncertain, we aggressively challenge the accuracy of the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

Should police have violated your constitutional rights during any stop, search, or arrest, we fight to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence and weaken the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you borrowed, were gifted, or actually owned the property in question, we assert your rights and show there was no unlawful taking involved.

Diversion and Probation Options

For many first-time defendants, we pursue alternatives such as:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as a substitute for incarceration
• Theft education courses

These alternatives are designed to avoid a criminal conviction and protect your future. Our focus is your freedom, reputation, and peace of mind.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Fullerton Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in Fullerton is not the end of the road. Although these charges can impact your life, a skilled theft crime attorney can help minimize their effects. Don’t allow the prosecution to overwhelm you with allegations—get proactive legal help right away.

At My Rights Law, our Fullerton theft defense team has a strong record of getting charges dismissed, negotiating favorable results, and keeping our clients out of jail. We fight relentlessly and strategically for your rights every step of the way.

Don’t face these charges alone. Choose a theft defense lawyer Fullerton clients trust for their most serious cases.

Call us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call could make all the difference.

Ready to speak with a Fullerton theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.