Thousand Oaks Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Thousand Oaks – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Thousand Oaks puts your future and freedom at risk, and every moment counts. Theft offenses vary from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement, but all can result in jail time, fines, and probation. In some cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges, leaving a permanent mark on your criminal record that can affect your life indefinitely.

If you face theft charges, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced California theft lawyer at (805) 277-2011. Time is critical, so initiating your defense early is essential to protecting your rights and reducing penalties.

Ready to speak with a Thousand Oaks theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (805) 277-2011 or contact us online.

Common Thousand Oaks Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are categorized under various sections of the California Penal Code. The nature and circumstances of the offense determine how it is prosecuted, meaning each theft charge requires a tailored defense approach. Generally, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with intent to steal.

Some of the most frequently encountered theft charges in Thousand Oaks 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’re charged under, we have the knowledge and experience to handle it effectively. Below, we explain each charge and how the law applies.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This charge often involves minor incidents such as small-scale shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts with low monetary value.

Penalties for Petty Theft

Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor and can lead to penalties including:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• Probation, community service, or participation in a theft education program

The severity of punishment depends on factors like the value of stolen goods, whether the victim is a vulnerable individual or business, the use of force or intimidation, and prior theft convictions. Repeat offenses may elevate charges, sometimes resulting in felony charges with more severe consequences. A skilled Thousand Oaks theft attorney can assess these factors to help minimize the impact on your future.

Shoplifting

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

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Possible jail time of up to six months
• Court fines and restitution payments
• Felony charges may apply if you have prior convictions for serious crimes such as rape or murder

If shoplifting is your first offense, the court may offer leniency. An experienced Thousand Oaks theft attorney can negotiate for reduced charges, alternative sentencing options, or potentially even case dismissal based on the circumstances of your case.

Grand Theft

Per PC 487(a), grand theft occurs when stolen property exceeds $950 in value. It also includes theft of specific items like firearms, vehicles, or certain livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense, which means it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the case details and property value. Punishments may 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 can profoundly affect your life beyond sentencing, including difficulties securing employment, housing, and immigration challenges. To protect your future, you need a knowledgeable Thousand Oaks theft attorney to fight aggressively against felony charges and seek the best possible outcome.

Burglary

PC 459 defines burglary as unlawfully entering a building—whether residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Burglary includes first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) offenses.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always a felony
• Prison terms of 2, 4, or 6 years
• Considered a 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, it is treated more severely than many theft crimes. However, a skilled Thousand Oaks criminal defense attorney can challenge this element and seek to reduce or dismiss the charges altogether.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, defined under PC 503, involves the fraudulent taking or misuse of property entrusted to you. It often arises in employment or financial account contexts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of property involved
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• Potential consequences include restitution, fines, incarceration, and professional repercussions

Even honest mistakes or accounting errors can result in embezzlement charges. To avoid serious consequences, seek representation from a Thousand Oaks theft attorney who can develop a defense strategy proving lack of intent and clarifying the facts in your favor.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified many non-violent offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property involving items valued at $950 or less.

This reform means many defendants are now eligible for reduced sentences or resentencing if previously convicted under harsher laws.

If you face felony theft charges, our legal team can review your case for potential Prop 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment, improving your chances for a favorable resolution.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

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

Lack of Intent

The foundation of theft charges is intent. If we can show the act was accidental or a misunderstanding, we can fight to reduce or dismiss the charges entirely.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rest on unreliable eyewitness accounts or unclear surveillance footage. If your identity isn’t certain, we will challenge the validity of the evidence.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your constitutional rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we can seek to exclude illegally obtained evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legitimately yours, we will argue there was no unlawful taking, protecting you from theft charges.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, options may include:

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

These alternatives help avoid a criminal conviction and maintain a clean record. Our focus is on protecting your freedom and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Thousand Oaks Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in California is daunting, but it doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled Thousand Oaks theft attorney can reduce the impact and fight for your rights.

At My Rights Law, our dedicated team has a strong record of winning cases, negotiating favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail.

Don’t face this challenge alone. Trust a Thousand Oaks theft defense lawyer who will fiercely protect your rights.

Call us now at (805) 277-2011 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can make all the difference.

Ready to speak with a Thousand Oaks theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (805) 277-2011 or contact us online.