North Hollywood Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in North Hollywood – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft offense in North Hollywood places your future and freedom in jeopardy, and the clock begins ticking immediately. Theft crimes in California can take many forms, including shoplifting, embezzlement, burglary, and grand theft. Each of these charges carries serious potential consequences, such as jail time, steep fines, and probation. In more severe cases, a felony conviction could follow you for life, damaging your reputation and limiting your opportunities long after the case is resolved.

When facing theft charges, the sooner you act, the better. At My Rights Law, our experienced theft attorneys understand how to approach each case with a tailored defense. We work hard to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and fight for the best outcome possible. Don’t delay — get the help you need right away by calling our North Hollywood theft attorney today at (747) 249 5077.

Ready to speak with a North Hollywood theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.

Common North Hollywood Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are prosecuted under various sections of the California Penal Code, and each type has unique legal implications depending on the facts of the case. Generally, theft involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. In North Hollywood, we frequently defend clients facing the following charges:

• 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 statute you are charged under, we have the experience and legal knowledge to build a powerful defense. Below, we’ll explain each of these offenses in more detail and discuss what penalties may apply.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft occurs when someone unlawfully takes property valued at $950 or less. This commonly includes low-value crimes such as shoplifting, stealing from an employer, or pocketing unattended items in public or private spaces. Although these acts might appear minor, being charged with petty theft in North Hollywood can still lead to significant legal consequences.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

In most cases, petty theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor and may result in:

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

Sentencing can vary based on the circumstances—such as whether the alleged victim was a vulnerable individual (like a senior or minor) or whether force was involved. If you have prior theft-related convictions, you could face a “petty theft with a prior” charge, which may be filed as a felony. Our North Hollywood theft defense lawyers can help prevent these escalations and push for a more favorable outcome.

Shoplifting

According to Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a commercial establishment during regular hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. This is one of the most common theft charges in North Hollywood, especially involving retail or department stores.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Punishable by up to six months in county jail
• Fines, court fees, and possible restitution to the merchant
• If you have serious prior convictions (such as rape, murder, or child molestation), the charge may be elevated to a felony

In many first-offense cases, it may be possible to pursue reduced penalties, alternative sentencing, or even full dismissal. A skilled North Hollywood shoplifting attorney from My Rights Law can evaluate your case and advocate for the best possible resolution.

Grand Theft

Under California Penal Code 487(a), grand theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at more than $950. It also applies to theft of items like vehicles, firearms, or certain livestock—regardless of the monetary value. In North Hollywood, grand theft charges can be particularly serious and may have long-term effects on your life.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the facts of the case and your criminal history. Potential penalties include:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft can seriously impact employment opportunities, professional licensing, and immigration status. Working with a North Hollywood grand theft attorney can help you fight for a charge reduction or dismissal to protect your rights and future.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 categorizes burglary as the act of entering a building (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or any felony. In California, burglary is classified as either first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial). This charge requires the prosecution to prove that you intended to commit a crime before entering the structure—making it more serious than a simple theft charge.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary hinges on intent, a knowledgeable North Hollywood burglary defense lawyer may be able to challenge the prosecution’s narrative and get charges reduced or dismissed entirely. We know what’s at stake and how to approach these serious accusations.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, defined under Penal Code 503, involves unlawfully taking or using property that has been entrusted to you—often in workplace or fiduciary situations. Common examples include misusing company funds, falsifying records, or transferring assets for personal gain. In North Hollywood, embezzlement cases are usually tied to professional or financial roles.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Classified by the value of the property
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• Over $950: Felony
• Can include restitution, fines, probation, and jail or prison time
• Possible loss of professional licenses or employment

Even if the incident stems from a misunderstanding or mistake, you could still face criminal charges. At My Rights Law, our North Hollywood embezzlement defense attorneys will work to show there was no criminal intent—aiming to resolve the issue through dismissal, diversion, or reduced charges whenever possible.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed by California voters in 2014, reclassified many non-violent theft-related offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. Crimes such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property involving less than $950 in value are now considered misdemeanors under the law.

This reform not only reduces the potential penalties for new charges but also opens the door for individuals previously convicted under harsher laws to seek resentencing.

If you’re currently facing felony theft charges in North Hollywood, or if you have an old conviction that may qualify for reclassification, our legal team at My Rights Law can assess your case for Prop 47 eligibility and help you seek a more favorable outcome.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case we handle in North Hollywood is different, but we apply proven strategies while customizing our approach to your specific circumstances. These include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a core element of theft. If we can demonstrate that the act was accidental or misunderstood, we may be able to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often stem from low-quality surveillance footage or faulty eyewitness accounts. If you’re not clearly identified, we’ll challenge the evidence against you.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your rights during the arrest or search process, we can move to suppress the evidence—often resulting in a significant weakening of the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If there was a misunderstanding—such as borrowing with permission or a dispute over ownership—we will present this as a strong defense to contest unlawful intent.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we often explore alternative sentencing options such as:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in lieu of incarceration
• Theft awareness or education courses

These alternatives help you avoid a conviction and safeguard your record. At My Rights Law, your future is our focus.

Protect Your Future – Contact With North Hollywood Theft Crime Attorney

A theft charge in California can have serious consequences, but it doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal defense, many cases can be resolved favorably. Don’t wait until it’s too late—secure skilled legal representation now.

The North Hollywood theft crime lawyers at My Rights Law are strategic, aggressive, and client-focused. We know how to fight for dismissals, reduced charges, and alternatives to jail time.

Call us today at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online to book your free strategy session. The right defense can make all the difference.

Ready to speak with a North Hollywood theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.