Riverside Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Riverside – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Riverside puts your future and freedom at risk, and the clock is ticking. Theft offenses vary widely — from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement — but all carry serious consequences such as jail time, fines, and probation. In more severe cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that remain on your criminal record permanently, impacting your life for years to come.

If you are facing theft charges, do not delay. Contact an experienced California theft lawyer at (951) 900-3335 immediately. Acting quickly is essential to building an effective defense and minimizing the penalties you might face.

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

Common Riverside Theft Crimes

Theft crimes in California cover a range of offenses under the Penal Code, each requiring a tailored defense based on the details and severity of the charge. Generally, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Riverside, the theft charges we frequently encounter 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 statute you are charged under, our team has the knowledge and experience to handle your case. Let us explain what these charges mean and how the prosecution might pursue them.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This offense commonly involves minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts involving low-value items. In Riverside, petty theft charges are often the starting point for many theft cases but still carry serious consequences.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Typically charged as a misdemeanor, petty theft can result in penalties such as:

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

The exact punishment depends on factors like the value and nature of the stolen property, whether the victim is a business, elderly, disabled, or a minor, and if any force or intimidation was used. Repeat offenders risk harsher charges, including petty theft with a prior conviction, which can be charged as a felony with more severe penalties. An experienced Riverside theft attorney can help navigate these complexities and fight to minimize your consequences.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial establishment during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution payments
• In cases involving prior convictions for serious crimes (such as rape or murder), shoplifting may be elevated to a felony charge

If shoplifting is your first offense, there is a possibility of reduced sentencing, alternative punishments, or even dismissal of charges. A dedicated Riverside theft crime lawyer can advocate for your best outcome.

Grand Theft

According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the value of stolen property exceeds $950. It also includes thefts involving firearms, automobiles, or certain types of livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense in California, meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances and value of stolen items:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft can have lasting impacts beyond the courtroom, affecting employment opportunities, housing, and immigration status. To reduce these risks, it is crucial to hire a skilled Riverside theft attorney who understands how to fight felony charges effectively.

Burglary

Under Penal Code 459, burglary is defined as unlawfully entering a building—whether residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Burglary includes both first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) offenses.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Because burglary requires proof of intent to commit a crime before entry, it is often punished more severely than other theft offenses. However, an experienced Riverside defense attorney can challenge this element and may secure a reduction or dismissal of charges.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, governed by Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone who was entrusted with it. It most frequently occurs in employment or financial account settings.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property involved:
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• Over $950: Felony
• Penalties may include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional consequences

Even honest mistakes or accounting errors can lead to embezzlement charges. A Riverside theft lawyer can help prove lack of intent and protect your rights, ensuring misunderstandings do not damage your future.

Proposition 47

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

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

If you are facing felony theft charges, our law firm can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief and pursue misdemeanor reclassification where applicable.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we use proven strategies tailored to your specific situation. Our main defense tactics include:

Lack of Intent

A key element in theft cases is proving intent. If we can show the taking was accidental or misunderstood, charges can be reduced or dismissed entirely.

Mistaken Identity

Many theft cases rely on poor-quality evidence or mistaken eyewitness accounts. If you cannot be clearly identified, we challenge the prosecution’s entire case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during search or arrest, we will work to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence and weaken the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or belongs to you, we will assert these facts to prove no illegal taking occurred in your case.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we pursue:

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

These alternatives help you avoid a criminal record. Our focus is on protecting your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Riverside Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California is overwhelming but not hopeless. A skilled Riverside theft crime attorney can help minimize the impact on your life.

At My Rights Law, our Riverside theft defense team has a strong history of winning cases, negotiating reduced penalties, and keeping clients out of jail.

Don’t face these serious charges alone. Call us now at (951) 900-3335 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could save your future.

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