Garden Grove Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Garden Grove – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft crime charges in Garden Grove means that your reputation, your future, and even your freedom are at risk. From shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement, each offense carries significant penalties such as incarceration, expensive fines, and lengthy probation. Depending on the details of your case, prosecutors may pursue felony charges, which can permanently impact your criminal record and follow you for life.

If you’ve been accused of a theft crime, do not delay in seeking legal representation. Contact an experienced California theft lawyer at (714) 248-8111 immediately. Every moment counts, so it’s crucial to begin developing your theft defense strategy right away.

Ready to speak with a Garden Grove theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online.

Common Garden Grove Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are classified into several categories under the California Penal Code. The way a theft charge is prosecuted depends on the seriousness of the crime and the surrounding circumstances, which means each situation requires a customized approach. Still, all theft offenses share the same core legal definition: unlawfully taking property that belongs to someone else with the intent to steal.

Some of the most frequent theft-related charges our clients encounter in Garden Grove 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 have been accused of violating, our team understands the right steps to take. Let’s explore what each of these terms involves and how your case may be prosecuted.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Common examples of petty theft include shoplifting small items, picking pockets, or other situations where lower-value goods are involved. While petty theft is often considered a less serious crime, it can still result in significant consequences if you are convicted. Factors such as the victim’s status, use of force, or previous theft offenses can all affect how the case is prosecuted and punished. For example, thefts against businesses, elderly individuals, or persons with disabilities may be prosecuted more aggressively. Repeat offenders may face harsher penalties due to prior convictions, potentially resulting in a felony charge known as “petty theft with a prior.”

Penalty for a Petty Theft

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or mandatory theft counseling

The severity of the penalties can depend on the specific circumstances of the theft and the defendant’s criminal history. An experienced Garden Grove theft attorney can work to minimize these penalties or, in some cases, seek a dismissal of charges altogether.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial establishment during business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is often charged as a misdemeanor unless you have certain serious prior convictions, in which case it may be filed as a felony. Penalties for shoplifting can still be severe and may impact your criminal record, employment prospects, and personal life.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Court fines and potential restitution
• If you have prior convictions for serious offenses, the charge may be elevated to a felony

If this is your first offense, a skilled Garden Grove theft crime attorney may be able to negotiate for reduced penalties, alternative sentencing, or even dismissal. Each case is unique, so having knowledgeable legal representation is essential to secure the best outcome possible.

Grand Theft

Under PC 487(a), grand theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at more than $950. Grand theft can also apply to the theft of firearms, vehicles, or certain types of livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft is known as a “wobbler” offense in California, meaning it may be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances, the defendant’s criminal history, and the value or nature of the property stolen.

Penalties for Grand Theft

The penalties for grand theft can be significant, with long-lasting effects on your life and future:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison
• Restitution and possible probation

A felony conviction for grand theft carries additional consequences, including difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and even potential immigration consequences. It is crucial to have an experienced Garden Grove theft attorney in your corner to fight for a reduction or dismissal of charges, and to protect your rights both in and out of court.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any structure—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony once inside. Burglary is divided into two categories: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). First-degree burglary always involves entering an inhabited dwelling and is prosecuted more severely, while second-degree burglary applies to other structures such as stores or businesses.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (always a felony): 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison and considered a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary (wobbler):
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Because burglary charges hinge on the intent to commit a crime before entering the premises, a skilled Garden Grove criminal defense attorney can challenge the evidence regarding intent, which may lead to reduced charges or even a full dismissal.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered by PC 503, involves the fraudulent taking or use of property by someone who was entrusted with it. These cases often arise in employment settings or situations involving financial accounts and can be highly complex. The prosecution must prove that you intended to permanently deprive the rightful owner of the property or funds.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Penalties are based on the value of the property or funds taken:
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• May include jail or prison time, restitution, fines, and professional consequences

Embezzlement charges can result even from honest mistakes, misunderstandings, or bookkeeping errors. If you are accused of embezzlement in Garden Grove, it is critical to have a theft attorney who can build a strong defense to prove your lack of intent and protect your professional reputation and future.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, enacted in 2014, reclassified many non-violent property and drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. This change includes offenses like petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—provided the value involved is $950 or less. Proposition 47 offers hope for many individuals previously convicted of felonies, allowing them to seek resentencing or reduced charges under the new law.

If you are currently facing felony theft charges, or have a prior conviction for a qualifying offense, our law firm can review your case for possible Prop 47 relief. My Rights Law is ready to advocate for the lowest possible penalties and fight for your rights every step of the way.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we rely on proven defense strategies tailored to your specific circumstances. The main approaches include:

Lack of Intent

A key element of theft is intent. If we demonstrate that you did not intend to commit theft—such as an honest mistake or misunderstanding—we can pursue dismissal or reduction of the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often depend on questionable video evidence or unreliable eyewitnesses. If your identification is uncertain, we challenge the prosecution’s case from the start.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your rights during the stop, search, or arrest, we fight to have illegally obtained evidence excluded—often crippling the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you had permission to take the item, or if it rightfully belonged to you, we raise these issues to show there was no unlawful taking involved.

Diversion and Probation Options

For eligible first-time offenders, we may seek:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as an alternative to incarceration
• Theft education classes

These alternatives can help you avoid a criminal record and move forward with your life. Our mission is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Garden Grove Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California can seem overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the road. An experienced Garden Grove theft crime attorney can help you reduce the impact on your life. Don’t let a prosecutor overwhelm you—take action now.

At My Rights Law, our Garden Grove theft lawyer team is known for beating charges, negotiating favorable resolutions, and keeping clients out of jail. We are strategic, aggressive, and dedicated to your defense.

Don’t go through this alone. Contact the theft defense attorney Garden Grove residents trust with their toughest cases.

Call us today at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online to arrange a free consultation. That one call could be the difference between conviction and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Garden Grove theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online.