Hesperia Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Hesperia – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft-related crime in Hesperia puts your future and liberty at risk, and time is critical. Theft offenses vary widely—from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement—but all can result in jail, fines, or probation. Some cases may escalate to felony charges, leaving a permanent mark on your record that can impact your life indefinitely.

If you face theft charges, don’t delay contacting an experienced California theft attorney at (760) 490-0308. Acting promptly to begin your defense strategy is essential to protecting your rights and minimizing consequences.

Ready to speak with a Hesperia theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (760) 490-0308 or contact us online.

Common Hesperia Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are classified under different Penal Code sections depending on the crime’s nature and seriousness. Each type of theft requires a tailored legal approach. In general, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with intent to permanently deprive them of it. The most frequently encountered theft charges in Hesperia 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 statute applies to your case, we understand how to defend you effectively. Let’s explore each charge and its potential penalties to prepare the best defense strategy.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This often includes minor acts such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts involving low-value items. While the offense may seem minor, it still carries serious consequences.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor and can result in penalties including:

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

The punishment may vary based on factors such as the value of stolen goods, whether the victim is a business, elderly, disabled, or a minor, and whether force or fear was involved. Repeat offenses can elevate petty theft charges, sometimes to felony-level crimes with harsher penalties. Experienced legal defense in Hesperia is essential to mitigate these risks.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when a person enters a commercial business during regular hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• Felony charges possible if there are prior convictions for serious crimes such as rape or murder

First-time shoplifting offenses often qualify for reduced sentences or alternative penalties. A Hesperia theft crime attorney can work to reduce or dismiss charges by presenting strong legal arguments tailored to your situation.

Grand Theft

According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft is defined as stealing property valued over $950. This also includes theft involving firearms, automobiles, or specific livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony based on circumstances such as the value stolen and the defendant’s record. The penalties include:

• 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 severely impact your life beyond court, including difficulties securing employment, housing, and potential immigration consequences. Having a skilled theft attorney in Hesperia is critical to challenge felony charges and protect your future.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as unlawfully entering a building or structure with intent to commit theft or any felony inside. This includes first-degree burglary (residential) and second-degree burglary (commercial).

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary involves intent to commit a crime before entry, it is punished more severely than other theft crimes. A knowledgeable Hesperia defense attorney can challenge this intent element to seek reduced charges or case dismissal.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under Penal Code 503, is the fraudulent taking or appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it. It commonly occurs in employment or financial account contexts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value involved:
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• Over $950: Felony
• Possible consequences include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional sanctions

Embezzlement cases can arise from misunderstandings or bookkeeping errors, but these still may lead to criminal charges. Obtaining representation from a theft attorney in Hesperia is crucial to demonstrate lack of criminal intent and defend your rights effectively.

Proposition 47

In 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property when the value involved is $950 or less.

This change allows many defendants to qualify for reduced sentencing or resentencing if they were convicted under prior stricter laws.

If you are facing felony theft charges, our legal team at My Rights Law can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor sentencing to minimize the impact on your life.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we tailor common defense strategies to fit your specific circumstances. Key tactics include:

Lack of Intent

The core of any theft charge is intent. If we can show the taking was accidental or misunderstood, we may reduce or dismiss the charges against you.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rely on unclear footage or unreliable witnesses. If you’re not definitively identified, we have strong grounds to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If your rights were violated during a search, stop, or arrest, we can seek to exclude evidence obtained unlawfully, undermining the prosecutor’s argument.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we’ll present this defense to prove no theft occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we explore:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in lieu of incarceration
• Theft awareness and education classes

These alternatives help prevent convictions and preserve your clean record. Our priority is protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Hesperia Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with theft in California is tough, but it’s not the end. A skilled Hesperia theft attorney can help reduce the impact on your life.

Don’t let prosecutors overwhelm you with charges. At My Rights Law, our experienced theft lawyers fight hard to get charges dropped, negotiate better outcomes, and keep clients out of jail.

Don’t face this alone. Get a trusted defense lawyer in Hesperia who will protect your rights and fight for your future.

Call us now at (760) 490-0308 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can make all the difference between jail and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Hesperia theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (760) 490-0308 or contact us online.