Murrieta Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Murrieta – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Murrieta puts your reputation, freedom, and future at risk. There are numerous forms of theft charges in California, such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, and embezzlement. No matter the type, each charge brings the potential for jail time, costly fines, and probation. In more serious cases, you could even face felony charges, which could stay on your criminal record for life, affecting employment and other opportunities for years to come.

If you have been arrested or charged with a theft offense, it’s critical to act fast. Call a knowledgeable California theft crimes lawyer at (951) 412-3018. The sooner you begin developing your theft defense strategy, the better your chances of minimizing the impact on your life.

Ready to speak with a Murrieta theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online.

Common Murrieta Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are covered under a range of statutes within the Penal Code. The specific charge and penalties will depend on the nature and seriousness of the alleged crime. However, all theft crimes share a basic legal definition: unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Every type of theft must be addressed with a strategy tailored to its unique elements and circumstances.

Some of the most frequently charged theft crimes in Murrieta 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 charge you are facing, My Rights Law has the experience to address it head-on. Below, we will explain what each of these charges means and how they are prosecuted in Murrieta courts.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This often involves minor offenses such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value thefts frequently encountered in Murrieta.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor, with possible penalties including:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or attendance at theft prevention classes

The severity of the penalty depends on the value of the stolen goods and specific circumstances, such as whether the victim was a business, a vulnerable person, or if force was involved. Repeat offenses may escalate the charge to a felony, carrying harsher consequences. A Murrieta theft attorney can help navigate these complexities and work toward minimizing the impact of the charges.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting, as defined by PC 459.5(a), occurs when a person enters a commercial establishment during normal business hours intending to steal merchandise worth $950 or less.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Possible jail time up to six months
• Court fines and restitution payments
• Felony charges possible if there is a history of serious convictions

First-time offenders often receive leniency. A skilled Murrieta theft attorney can argue for reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or potentially dismissal, helping you avoid long-term consequences.

Grand Theft

According to PC 487(a), grand theft involves stealing property valued over $950. It also includes thefts of firearms, automobiles, or certain livestock, making it a more serious offense in Murrieta.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense and can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the facts:

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

A felony grand theft conviction can affect your future beyond court, complicating employment, housing, and immigration status. Having an experienced Murrieta theft attorney is essential to challenge the charges and protect your rights.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering a building or structure—whether residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. Burglary in Murrieta is classified as either first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial).

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary requires proof of intent prior to entry, a skilled Murrieta criminal defense attorney may be able to challenge this element, potentially reducing charges or securing dismissal.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under PC 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone entrusted with it, often occurring in employment or financial contexts in Murrieta.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Based on property value:
• Less than $950: misdemeanor
• Over $950: felony
• May include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional consequences

Even unintentional errors or misunderstandings can lead to embezzlement charges. A knowledgeable Murrieta theft attorney can help prove the absence of malicious intent and develop a strong defense to protect your future.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses, including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property involving $950 or less, from felonies to misdemeanors.

This law allows many defendants to seek reduced sentences or resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws.

If you face felony theft charges in Murrieta, our legal team can review your case for possible Proposition 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment to lessen the consequences you face.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven defense strategies tailored specifically to your circumstances. Our main approaches include:

Lack of Intent

A key element in theft cases is proving intent. If we can show the act was accidental or misunderstood, we can fight for reduced or dismissed charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often depend on unclear video footage or unreliable witnesses. If you cannot be positively identified, we will challenge the validity of the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your rights during a search, arrest, or stop, we can move to exclude evidence obtained improperly, weakening the prosecution’s position.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we will raise this defense to prove no unlawful taking occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Theft education or community service

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

Protect Your Future – Contact With Murrieta Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in California is overwhelming, but it’s not the end. A skilled Murrieta theft attorney can help minimize the consequences.

At My Rights Law, our dedicated team has a strong track record of beating charges, negotiating favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail.

Don’t face this alone. Get the defense you need from a theft lawyer Murrieta residents trust.

Call us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could mean the difference between jail time and freedom.

Ready to speak with a Murrieta theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online.