Long Beach Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Long Beach – Free Strategy Session

Being arrested for a theft crime in Long Beach can seriously impact your future and your freedom. Whether you’re facing accusations of shoplifting, grand theft, burglary, or embezzlement, you may be subject to severe consequences such as incarceration, substantial fines, and long-term probation. Depending on the case, prosecutors might even pursue felony charges, which can leave a permanent mark on your criminal record and negatively affect job opportunities, housing, and more.

At My Rights Law, we understand how much is at stake. That’s why we act quickly and aggressively to build a solid defense on your behalf. The sooner you take action, the stronger your chances of a positive outcome. Call our experienced Long Beach theft lawyer today at (562) 337-3990 for a free and confidential legal consultation. Time is critical, so don’t delay starting your defense.

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

Common Long Beach Theft Crimes

Theft-related offenses in California are categorized under several sections of the Penal Code, and the specifics of the charge often depend on the value of the property taken and the method used. Each case must be examined carefully, as the legal approach can differ based on the nature of the accusation. However, they all share a core legal definition: the unlawful taking of another’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it.

In Long Beach, the theft-related offenses we regularly handle 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 the specific charge, our legal team knows how to respond effectively. Below, we’ll explain what these charges entail and how they are typically prosecuted in the Long Beach courts.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of someone else’s property valued at $950 or less. This typically includes minor offenses such as shoplifting, pocket-picking, or stealing items of low value. Even though the items may not seem significant, a petty theft conviction can result in a criminal record that affects your future.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally classified as a misdemeanor offense and can result in the following penalties:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines of up to $1,000
• Community service, probation, or mandatory theft education courses

Additional circumstances can influence the severity of penalties. For example, if the theft involved a vulnerable victim, used force, or the accused has a prior criminal record, the charges may be escalated. A prior theft-related conviction could even lead to a felony charge under “petty theft with a prior.” If you’re facing petty theft charges in Long Beach, My Rights Law can build a strong defense and help minimize these consequences.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is defined under Penal Code section 459.5(a) as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. This is considered a theft offense, regardless of whether the individual actually left the store with the merchandise.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Classified as a misdemeanor in most cases
• Up to six months in county jail
• Court fines and restitution to the store
• Increased penalties if the defendant has prior serious or violent felony convictions

First-time offenders may be eligible for diversion programs or alternative sentencing. Our Long Beach theft attorney can negotiate for dismissal, charge reduction, or enrollment in programs that prevent a conviction. If you’ve been accused of shoplifting, our team will evaluate your case and protect your future.

Grand Theft

California Penal Code section 487(a) defines grand theft as the unlawful taking of property valued over $950. It also applies in cases involving the theft of a firearm, an automobile, or certain types of livestock, regardless of value. Grand theft is more serious than petty theft and can significantly impact your criminal record and life prospects.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler,” meaning it may be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony based on the value of the stolen property and the defendant’s history:

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

Grand theft convictions can affect future job prospects, housing opportunities, and immigration status. A felony charge may carry long-term consequences far beyond incarceration. At My Rights Law in Long Beach, we work to have these charges dismissed or downgraded to minimize their impact on your life.

Burglary

Under Penal Code 459, burglary occurs when someone enters a residential or commercial building with the intention of committing theft or another felony inside. The crime is split into first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) burglary.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary requires the intent to commit a crime before entry, it is considered more serious than other theft crimes. However, if that intent cannot be proven, the case may fall apart. A Long Beach burglary defense lawyer from My Rights Law can fight to challenge this key element and work toward charge reduction or dismissal.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, as outlined in Penal Code 503, is defined as the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted to manage or oversee it. Common examples include employees misusing company funds or financial advisors misappropriating a client’s money. The core of the charge involves a breach of trust rather than forceful theft.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the misappropriated property:
• Under $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• Over $950: May be charged as a felony
• Additional consequences can include restitution, fines, and imprisonment
• Professional licenses and employment may also be affected

Often, embezzlement stems from misunderstandings, accounting errors, or unclear internal policies. Even in the absence of malicious intent, you can still face serious charges. Our Long Beach theft defense team at My Rights Law can help demonstrate the true context of the situation and advocate for a favorable outcome, including dismissal or alternative sentencing options.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent property and drug crimes from felonies to misdemeanors, including theft-related charges where the value involved does not exceed $950. This law was aimed at reducing prison overcrowding and offering rehabilitative options instead of long-term incarceration.

Because of Proposition 47, many theft offenses such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property are now eligible for misdemeanor treatment—even for individuals who were originally convicted of felonies under the old laws.

If you’re currently facing theft charges in Long Beach or have a prior felony theft conviction, our team at My Rights Law can review your case and determine whether you qualify for Prop 47 relief, which can mean reduced charges or resentencing. Don’t miss your opportunity to have your criminal record cleaned up and your future protected.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case has its own set of facts, but My Rights Law uses time-tested strategies tailored to your situation. Common defenses we apply include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a key element in any theft charge. If we can prove there was no intent to steal—whether through accident, confusion, or miscommunication—we can fight for dismissal or reduction of your charges.

Mistaken Identity

Many theft cases depend on flawed surveillance or faulty eyewitness accounts. If you weren’t clearly identified, we can challenge the evidence and credibility of the accusations.

Illegal Search and Seizure

When law enforcement violates your rights by conducting unlawful searches or detaining you without probable cause, we will move to suppress that evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you had a legitimate belief that the property was yours—whether borrowed, gifted, or owned—we’ll use that to show there was no criminal intent to steal.

Diversion and Probation Options

First-time offenders may qualify for:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in place of incarceration
• Theft prevention or education courses

These alternatives help you avoid a conviction and protect your record. Our focus is on safeguarding your freedom and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Long Beach Theft Crime Attorney

A theft charge can disrupt your career, relationships, and reputation—but it doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled Long Beach theft attorney can help minimize or even eliminate the consequences.

At My Rights Law, our legal team has a successful history of getting theft charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved favorably. We know what’s at stake and will fight hard to protect you.

Don’t take chances with your future. Hire a theft defense lawyer Long Beach residents count on for serious results.

Call us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online for a free case review. One conversation could change the course of your case.

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