Moreno Valley Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Moreno Valley – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Moreno Valley puts your freedom and future in jeopardy, and every minute counts. There are many different theft-related offenses in California, such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, and embezzlement, and all carry the potential for serious penalties like jail time, steep fines, or probation. Depending on your circumstances, the prosecution may seek felony charges, which could result in a permanent mark on your criminal record and follow you for the rest of your life.

If you are facing theft charges, it is critical to act quickly and contact an experienced California theft lawyer at (951) 900-3335. The sooner you start building your defense, the stronger your position will be against the case brought by the prosecution. Don’t delay—let My Rights Law protect your rights and fight to minimize the impact of theft allegations on your life.

Ready to speak with a Moreno Valley theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online.

Common Moreno Valley Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are defined and prosecuted in many different ways under the California Penal Code. The nature and severity of the allegations determine how each theft charge is handled in court. No matter the specific offense, theft typically involves the unlawful taking of another’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Each type of theft case brings its own legal nuances and defense strategies.

• 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 charge you are facing in Moreno Valley, our team understands how to approach your case. Next, we’ll explain the details behind each charge and what you can expect during the prosecution process.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property valued at $950 or less. This category of theft is most often associated with minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value thefts. Even though the amount may seem small, being accused of petty theft in Moreno Valley can result in serious consequences and a permanent criminal record if not handled properly.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor, with possible punishments that include:

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

The severity of these penalties may depend on factors such as the value of the stolen property, the identity of the victim, whether force or threats were used, and if you have any prior theft convictions. In some cases, repeat offenders can be charged with “petty theft with a prior,” which could elevate the charge to a felony and lead to harsher consequences. Retaining a skilled Moreno Valley theft attorney is crucial to explore every possible defense and avoid the long-term effects of a conviction.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters an open business during regular hours intending to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This crime is distinct from burglary and is treated as its own offense under California law.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• If you have certain serious prior convictions (such as for violent or sex offenses), the charge may be elevated to a felony

If this is your first offense, an experienced Moreno Valley theft attorney may be able to help you achieve a reduction in charges, alternative sentencing options, or even a dismissal. Every case is different, so it is important to have a defense team that understands how to navigate the local court system to obtain the best possible result.

Grand Theft

California Penal Code section 487(a) defines grand theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at more than $950. Grand theft also includes theft of certain items such as firearms, vehicles, or livestock, regardless of value. This is a more serious charge than petty theft and can have significant consequences on your record and your life.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the circumstances, the value of the stolen property, and your criminal history. The potential punishments include:

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

A felony grand theft conviction can impact you beyond just time served—it can make finding a job or housing much more difficult, and could affect your immigration status. If you are facing grand theft charges in Moreno Valley, having a knowledgeable theft attorney on your side can make a significant difference in your case, from negotiating reduced charges to seeking case dismissal where appropriate.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any structure, whether residential or commercial, with the intention of committing theft or another felony inside. Burglary is divided into two categories: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial). Both are prosecuted aggressively and carry stiff penalties.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary requires intent before entry, prosecutors often try to prove this element aggressively. However, with the help of a skilled Moreno Valley criminal defense attorney, you may be able to challenge the intent or reduce the charges, potentially avoiding a strike or lengthy prison sentence.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under PC 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by a person who was entrusted with it—such as an employee or someone managing finances. This offense often arises in workplace or financial settings, but can also involve caretakers or others in positions of trust.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• The severity of the charge depends on the value of the property:
• Property valued under $950: Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Property valued over $950: Can be charged as a felony
• Other consequences may include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and impacts on professional licenses or employment

Embezzlement charges can result from honest mistakes or misunderstandings, but even so, you can still face prosecution. If you are accused of embezzlement in Moreno Valley, it is vital to secure legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced theft attorney can help clarify your intentions and defend your rights, working to ensure that a simple error does not result in a criminal record.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed in 2014, reclassified several non-violent offenses, such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, from felonies to misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less. This change in the law means that many defendants are now eligible for reduced charges or resentencing if they were previously convicted under the old, stricter guidelines.

If you are facing felony theft charges in Moreno Valley, our law office can review your case to see if you qualify for relief under Proposition 47. Our team at My Rights Law can advocate for a reduction in your charges or explore resentencing options to minimize the impact on your future.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we rely on proven defense strategies while adapting them to fit your unique circumstances. These approaches include:

Lack of Intent

A crucial part of any theft charge is intent. If we can demonstrate the absence of criminal intent—such as a misunderstanding or honest mistake—we may be able to have your charges reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rest on unreliable eyewitness accounts or unclear video footage. If your identity is in doubt, we challenge the prosecution’s case from the start.

Illegal Search and Seizure

When police violate your rights during a search or arrest, key evidence can be excluded from the case. We work to ensure your constitutional protections are enforced.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you had permission to use, borrow, or possess the item in question—or it rightfully belonged to you—we present this defense to show there was no theft.

Diversion and Probation Options

For many first-time offenders, alternatives to jail may be available:

• Pretrial diversion
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Theft education programs

These programs help keep your record clear and your future intact. Our goal is always to defend your freedom, reputation, and opportunities.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Moreno Valley Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in California can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to define your life. The right Moreno Valley theft crime attorney can fight to minimize the consequences you face. Don’t let the prosecutor control your future—take action now.
Our team at My Rights Law has a strong record of securing dismissals, negotiating for favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail. We are dedicated, strategic, and tireless in our defense of your rights.

Don’t face your theft charge alone. Choose the theft defense attorney Moreno Valley residents rely on for serious legal help.

Call us today at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One conversation could change the course of your case.

Ready to speak with a Moreno Valley theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online.