Redondo Beach Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Redondo Beach – Free Strategy Session

Facing a theft charge in Redondo Beach can seriously impact your future and your freedom. The clock starts ticking the moment you’re arrested. From minor offenses like shoplifting to serious charges like burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, each can carry severe consequences. You may face jail time, expensive fines, and a criminal record that could follow you for the rest of your life. Some theft charges may even result in felony convictions that limit your job prospects and personal opportunities.

At My Rights Law, we understand the complexities of California theft laws and will build a defense strategy that fits your unique circumstances. The sooner you act, the more options you’ll have. Call our experienced Redondo Beach theft defense lawyer at (562) 337-3990 now to protect your rights and explore your legal options.

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

Common Redondo Beach Theft Crimes

The California Penal Code outlines several types of theft crimes, each with its own elements and penalties. While all involve unlawfully taking another’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it, the details can vary significantly. Based on the value of the stolen property, the presence of force, or even the relationship between the parties, a theft offense could be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.

Our Redondo Beach office frequently defends against a variety of theft-related charges, including:

• 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 what statute you’re facing, My Rights Law has the knowledge and resources to challenge the prosecution’s case and fight for the best possible outcome. Below, we’ll explain what each charge means and how we can help defend it.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code § 484(a), petty theft involves unlawfully taking property valued at $950 or less. This typically includes offenses such as shoplifting small items, minor employee theft, or taking personal belongings without permission. These are commonly seen as “low-level” crimes, but the legal implications can still be serious.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

In most cases, petty theft is prosecuted as a misdemeanor. Penalties may include:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Community service, probation, or participation in a theft diversion program

However, aggravating factors—such as prior convictions, use of force, or theft involving vulnerable victims—can lead to harsher consequences. In some circumstances, you may face a “petty theft with a prior” charge, which can be elevated to a felony. Having a Redondo Beach theft lawyer from My Rights Law can make all the difference in minimizing or dismissing these charges entirely.

Shoplifting

Per California Penal Code § 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial establishment during business hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Unlike petty theft, shoplifting is distinguished by the intent to commit the crime before entering the store.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Generally classified as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Court fines and possible restitution to the business
• Can be charged as a felony if the defendant has serious prior convictions (e.g., murder, rape, or certain sex crimes)

First-time shoplifting offenders may be eligible for lenient resolutions, such as diversion or dismissal. An experienced Redondo Beach theft crime attorney can argue for a reduced sentence, or alternative punishment that keeps your record clean.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code § 487(a), grand theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued above $950. It also covers theft involving firearms, motor vehicles, or certain types of livestock, regardless of monetary value. Grand theft is taken much more seriously than petty theft because of the greater value or nature of the stolen items.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is classified as a “wobbler” in California, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Additional penalties may include restitution, formal probation, and court fines

A felony conviction can carry lifelong consequences, including difficulties with employment, housing, and immigration. If you’re facing grand theft charges, having a skilled Redondo Beach theft attorney can help you contest the charges or negotiate them down to a less severe outcome.

Burglary

Burglary, as defined under Penal Code § 459, involves entering a building, room, or structure with the intent to commit theft or another felony once inside. The crime is split into two degrees: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) burglary.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always a felony
• Sentencing: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• 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 “intent” before entry, a defense often centers on disproving that element. An experienced Redondo Beach criminal defense lawyer can scrutinize the case against you, challenge weak evidence, and aim to reduce or dismiss the charges entirely.

Embezzlement

According to Penal Code § 503, embezzlement involves the fraudulent use or misappropriation of property that was lawfully entrusted to the defendant. This often arises in the context of employer-employee relationships, personal financial management, or when handling someone else’s property.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Penalties are based on the amount taken:
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• Additional consequences can include fines, restitution, jail or prison time, and damage to your professional reputation

Many embezzlement cases stem from misunderstandings, bookkeeping errors, or misplaced trust. If you are facing accusations of embezzlement in Redondo Beach, a knowledgeable theft lawyer can work to clarify the situation, challenge the intent requirement, and protect your rights in and out of court.

Proposition 47

In 2014, California voters passed Proposition 47, which reclassified many non-violent property crimes—including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen goods valued at $950 or less—from felonies to misdemeanors.

This reform opened the door for individuals facing certain theft-related felony charges to seek reduced penalties—or in some cases, resentencing—if they had been convicted under harsher laws prior to Prop 47’s enactment.

If you’ve been charged with theft in Redondo Beach, My Rights Law can determine whether your case qualifies for Prop 47 relief. Our skilled legal team will work to ensure your charges are treated appropriately and push for the most favorable outcome possible.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven defense strategies tailored specifically to your circumstances. These often include:

Lack of Intent

To convict you of theft, prosecutors must prove intent. If we demonstrate the act was accidental or misunderstood, the charges may be dismissed or reduced.

Mistaken Identity

Faulty video footage or unreliable witnesses can result in misidentification. If there’s doubt about who committed the theft, we’ll use that to your advantage.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your rights during a search or arrest, key evidence may be excluded, weakening the prosecutor’s case significantly.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legally yours, we’ll present this evidence to show no theft occurred under California law.

Diversion and Probation Options

First-time offenders may qualify for:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in lieu of jail time
• Theft education or counseling

These options aim to protect your future by avoiding a conviction and clearing your record.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Redondo Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California can be overwhelming and life-altering. A skilled Redondo theft attorney can significantly reduce the impact on your life. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

At My Rights Law, our Redondo theft defense team has a long-standing record of getting charges dismissed, securing favorable deals, and protecting our clients from incarceration. We fight aggressively to defend your rights at every turn.

Call us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. One call can change everything.

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