Temecula Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Temecula – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft charges in Temecula puts your future and freedom on the line, and every moment counts. Theft offenses such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement can result in jail time, fines, probation, and in some cases, felony convictions that stay on your record permanently.

If you are accused of theft, don’t delay—contact an experienced California theft attorney at (951) 412-3018 today. Immediate action is crucial to build a strong defense and protect your rights effectively.

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

Common Temecula Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are divided into various categories under the Penal Code. The severity and circumstances of each case affect how it is prosecuted, so every type of theft requires a tailored legal approach. Generally, theft crimes involve unlawfully taking another person’s property with intent to steal.

Some of the most frequent theft charges we encounter in Temecula 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 face, we have the expertise to handle your case. Below, we explain each charge and the potential legal consequences you should know.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This offense usually involves minor acts such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts involving low-value items. While petty theft is often perceived as less serious, the consequences can still be significant depending on your situation.

Penalties for Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor and may carry punishments including:

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

The severity of penalties may increase if the theft involved vulnerable victims like elderly or disabled individuals, the use of force or fear, or if you have prior convictions. In some cases, a petty theft offense with a prior conviction can escalate to a felony charge, leading to harsher consequences. It is critical to have a knowledgeable Temecula theft attorney who understands these nuances and can protect your rights.

Shoplifting

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

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Possible jail time up to six months
• Court fines and potential restitution to the store
• Felony charges if there are serious prior convictions such as rape or murder

If shoplifting is your first offense, there may be opportunities to reduce your charges, seek alternative sentencing, or have the case dismissed. A skilled Temecula theft crime lawyer can negotiate aggressively to minimize the impact on your record and future.

Grand Theft

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

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and value of the stolen property. Potential penalties include:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft can have long-lasting repercussions, affecting employment prospects, housing opportunities, and immigration status. It’s vital to have an experienced Temecula theft attorney who can vigorously defend against felony charges and strive for the best possible outcome in your case.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as unlawfully entering a building or structure, 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
• Classification as a strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary is a wobbler offense, meaning:
• 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, it is treated more severely than many other theft crimes. However, an experienced Temecula criminal defense attorney can challenge this element and potentially have the charges reduced or dismissed altogether.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking or appropriation of property by someone who was entrusted to manage or oversee it. It most commonly occurs in workplaces or situations involving financial accounts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property involved:
• Less than $950: misdemeanor charge
• Over $950: felony charge
• Possible consequences include restitution, fines, jail or prison sentences, and professional disciplinary actions

Embezzlement cases can be complex, especially if the alleged theft was an honest mistake or a bookkeeping error. To protect your future, it is crucial to have a Temecula theft lawyer who can build a strong defense, proving the absence of criminal intent and clarifying the facts in your favor.

Proposition 47

In 2014, California voters passed Proposition 47, which reclassified many non-violent offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This change includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property where the value involved is $950 or less.

This means that many defendants are now eligible for reduced sentences or even resentencing if they were previously convicted under stricter felony laws.

If you face felony theft charges in Temecula, our law firm can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment, significantly reducing the consequences you may face.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we use proven strategies tailored to your situation. Key defenses we focus on include:

Lack of Intent

A core element of theft is intent. If we can show your actions were accidental or misunderstood, we can fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often depend on low-quality footage or uncertain witnesses. If your identity is unclear, we challenge the validity of the entire case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your constitutional rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we can move to suppress evidence and undermine the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we’ll assert this defense to prove there was no illegal taking involved.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, options may include:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in place of jail time
• Theft prevention or education courses

These alternatives can help avoid convictions and preserve your clean record. Our priority is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Temecula Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in Temecula can feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end. A skilled theft crime attorney can help minimize the impact on your life.

At My Rights Law, our Temecula theft defense team has a strong record of beating charges, negotiating favorable results, and keeping clients out of jail.

Don’t face this battle alone. Trust a Temecula theft lawyer dedicated to defending your rights and future.

Call us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call could save you from jail.

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