Rosemead Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Rosemead – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft charges in Rosemead can put your future and reputation on the line. Whether you’re accused of shoplifting, burglary, embezzlement, or grand theft, the potential consequences are severe. You may face jail time, substantial fines, probation, and even a lifelong felony on your record. These types of charges can follow you for years, affecting job prospects, housing opportunities, and more. That’s why acting quickly is crucial.

At My Rights Law, we understand the pressure and uncertainty you’re under. We’ll build a strategic defense aimed at reducing or even eliminating the penalties you face. With a proven track record and a deep understanding of California theft laws, we’re here to help protect your rights from day one. Don’t let a theft accusation define your future—get the legal support you need right now.

If you’ve been charged with a theft crime in Rosemead, reach out immediately to a skilled California theft attorney at (626) 412-4840. The sooner we begin your defense, the better your outcome may be.

Ready to speak with a Rosemead theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.

Common Rosemead Theft Crimes

Theft offenses under California law come in many forms, each with its own legal elements and potential penalties. The seriousness of the charge depends on factors such as the value of the property and whether force or deceit was involved. Still, all theft charges are rooted in one principle: unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

In Rosemead, we frequently assist clients facing charges related to:

• 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

Each theft charge requires a tailored defense. Our firm understands how prosecutors build these cases and how to challenge their evidence effectively. Below, we’ll break down the different types of theft charges and explain how we can fight to protect your rights.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code Section 484(a), petty theft is defined as unlawfully taking property valued at $950 or less. Common examples include shoplifting, minor thefts from stores, or stealing unattended items in public places. Even though these offenses may seem minor, they still carry serious consequences under California law.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

In most cases, petty theft is classified as a misdemeanor and can result in:

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

Aggravating circumstances can elevate the severity of charges. For instance, theft involving vulnerable victims (such as seniors or minors), or if you have a history of similar offenses, may lead to “petty theft with a prior,” potentially making the offense a felony. In such cases, it’s essential to have a skilled Rosemead theft attorney to protect your rights and explore all available defenses.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is outlined under Penal Code 459.5(a) as entering a commercial establishment during normal business hours with the intent to steal goods worth $950 or less. It applies whether or not the person successfully takes anything.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines, restitution to the store, and possible diversion programs
• If the individual has prior serious felony convictions, the charge may be elevated to a felony

First-time offenders may qualify for leniency through diversion programs or dismissal upon completion of certain requirements. With the help of a knowledgeable Rosemead theft lawyer, it may be possible to reduce your penalties or avoid a conviction altogether.

Grand Theft

Grand theft is defined under Penal Code 487(a) and occurs when the value of the stolen property exceeds $950. It also applies regardless of value in thefts involving firearms, automobiles, or certain animals. This charge is far more serious than petty theft and often involves more complex legal proceedings.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is classified as a “wobbler,” which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony based on the case details. Potential consequences include:

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

A felony conviction can damage your future opportunities in employment, education, and housing. That’s why it’s critical to have an experienced Rosemead theft attorney on your side to fight the charges, negotiate reductions, or seek a dismissal.

Burglary

Burglary, under Penal Code 459, is defined as unlawfully entering a structure—either residential (first-degree) or commercial (second-degree)—with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Unlike simple theft, burglary focuses on the intent at the time of entry, even if no actual theft occurred.

Penalties for Burglary

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

Burglary charges are particularly serious due to the premeditated nature of the offense. However, a skilled Rosemead theft crime attorney may challenge the intent element, which is often the cornerstone of the prosecution’s case.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, codified in Penal Code 503, is a white-collar crime involving the misappropriation of funds or property by someone who was entrusted with them. This often occurs in workplace settings or fiduciary relationships and may involve unauthorized use of company resources, client funds, or business accounts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property involved:
  • Under $950: Misdemeanor
  • Over $950: Felony
• Additional penalties may include jail or prison time, restitution, and professional license consequences

What makes embezzlement cases particularly challenging is that they often involve a paper trail that prosecutors will use to argue intent. But not all financial discrepancies are criminal. If you’ve been accused, a knowledgeable theft lawyer in Rosemead can help you present evidence that supports your intentions and clears up the misunderstanding before it impacts your reputation and career.

Proposition 47

In 2014, California voters passed Proposition 47, which reclassified several non-violent crimes from felonies to misdemeanors. This includes theft offenses such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, provided the value of the property is $950 or less.

This reform has created an opportunity for many individuals to not only avoid harsh penalties but also to petition the court for resentencing if they were previously convicted under outdated laws.

If you’re facing felony theft charges or have prior convictions that may qualify for reclassification, the experienced legal team at My Rights Law can review your case and pursue the relief available under Prop 47 to reduce your charges or sentence.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but we use proven defense tactics at My Rights Law and tailor them to the specifics of your Rosemead situation. Common approaches include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a crucial component in any theft charge. If we can demonstrate that you lacked the intent to steal—such as a misunderstanding or accident—charges may be reduced or dropped.

Mistaken Identity

Theft allegations often hinge on vague footage or unreliable witnesses. If your identification isn’t solid, we can challenge the prosecution’s entire narrative.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police officers violated your rights through an unlawful search, we can move to suppress that evidence and significantly weaken the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you had permission to take the property or if it was yours to begin with, we’ll make that case clear and challenge the allegation of theft.

Diversion and Probation Options

For eligible first-time offenders, we may pursue alternatives like:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation instead of incarceration
• Theft education or counseling classes

These outcomes help avoid a permanent criminal record and support a better future. Our mission is to defend your freedom and reputation with precision and care.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Rosemead Theft Crime Attorney

Theft charges in Rosemead can disrupt your entire life—but this doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled theft crime attorney can make all the difference.

At My Rights Law, our Rosemead legal team has extensive experience getting theft charges dismissed, securing reduced penalties, and keeping our clients out of jail. We bring aggressive defense and thoughtful strategy to every case.

Let us stand between you and the prosecution. Trust the Rosemead theft attorney clients rely on when the stakes are high.

Call us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can change everything.

Ready to speak with a Rosemead theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.