Torrance Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Torrance – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft crime charges in Torrance can put your future, reputation, and freedom at risk. Whether you are accused of shoplifting, embezzlement, burglary, or grand theft, you could be looking at jail time, costly fines, and a permanent criminal record. In more serious cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that can impact your employment opportunities, housing, and more—long after your case is closed.

When you are up against theft allegations, acting fast is crucial. Contact a seasoned California theft defense attorney at (562) 337-3990 to begin your defense today. The sooner we get started on your case, the more effectively we can fight to protect your rights and reduce the consequences you may face.

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

Common Torrance Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are covered under several sections of the California Penal Code, and the charges vary based on factors like the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the offense. While every case is different, theft generally involves taking someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

Some of the most frequently charged theft crimes in Torrance 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 applies to your situation, our legal team at My Rights Law has the experience and strategies to help you navigate the legal system and fight your charges effectively.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. In Torrance, these cases often involve shoplifting from retail stores, picking up lost items without reporting them, or other acts involving small-value property. Even though it might seem minor, a petty theft conviction can still have serious consequences, especially if you already have a record.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is typically charged as a misdemeanor and punishable by:

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

The specifics of the penalty can change depending on various factors, such as the type of victim (elderly, minor, disabled), whether any force was involved, or if you have prior theft-related convictions. In some cases, a prior petty theft can be elevated to a felony—making experienced Torrance theft defense critical in protecting your future.

Shoplifting

Per Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial business during normal hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This law was established to separate minor retail thefts from more serious burglary charges.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Punishable by up to 6 months in jail
• Monetary fines and possible restitution to the store
• Can be upgraded to a felony if the defendant has prior serious convictions (such as murder or sexual assault)

If this is your first offense, there are often alternative sentencing options such as diversion programs or community service. A Torrance theft crimes lawyer can advocate for these options and potentially help you avoid a conviction altogether.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the value of stolen property exceeds $950, or when the stolen item is a firearm, vehicle, or certain livestock. Grand theft can happen in a single act or through a series of smaller thefts that add up over time. In Torrance, these charges are common in cases involving electronics, jewelry, or corporate property.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is considered a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the case details:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution to the victim and possible probation

Felony charges can drastically affect your future, including your employment and housing opportunities. Having a knowledgeable Torrance theft defense attorney is key to minimizing or avoiding these long-term consequences through strategic legal action.

Burglary

According to Penal Code 459, burglary is defined as entering any building (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary is broken down into two types: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (non-residential). Torrance residents often face these charges following incidents in homes, offices, or stores.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary: Always a felony
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Counts as a strike under the Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary: Wobbler
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Because burglary charges require proof of intent before entry, an experienced Torrance defense attorney can challenge that intent element to reduce or dismiss charges. Don’t face burglary accusations without legal representation.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, outlined in Penal Code 503, involves wrongfully appropriating money or property entrusted to someone, such as an employee taking company funds or a trustee mismanaging an account. In Torrance, this often arises in workplace settings or fiduciary relationships where the lines between access and ownership get blurred.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• The severity depends on the value involved:
• Under $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• Over $950: Can be charged as a felony
• Restitution to the victim
• Possible jail or prison time
• Professional and reputational consequences

Even if the alleged act was a misunderstanding or miscommunication, you could still face charges. A Torrance theft attorney can help you develop a strong defense to show lack of intent and protect your personal and professional future.

Proposition 47

Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified several non-violent theft offenses—including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—as misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less. This legal change gave thousands of Californians the opportunity to reduce their charges or request resentencing for older convictions.

If you’re currently facing felony theft allegations or were previously convicted under the old law, our Torrance legal team can assess whether you qualify for relief under Prop 47. We can petition the court to reduce your charges and seek outcomes that better reflect the non-violent nature of your case.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we implement proven strategies while adapting them to the specifics of your situation. Our core approaches include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is a critical element in theft cases. If we demonstrate that you didn’t mean to steal — for example, if it was a misunderstanding — we can work to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rely on vague surveillance footage or unreliable witness testimony. If there’s doubt about your identity, we’ll aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement obtained evidence unlawfully — without proper warrants or by violating your rights — we’ll fight to have that evidence thrown out of court.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property in question was borrowed, gifted, or believed to be yours, we’ll argue that no crime was committed due to lack of unlawful intent.

Diversion and Probation Options

For clients with no prior record, we may seek alternatives such as:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation in place of jail time
• Theft rehabilitation courses

These solutions aim to resolve your case without a criminal conviction, protecting your future and reputation.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Torrance Theft Crime Attorney

A theft charge can have lasting effects, but it’s not the end. A skilled Torrance theft crime attorney can help you limit the damage and regain control of your life.

At My Rights Law, our experienced Torrance theft lawyers are known for securing case dismissals, favorable plea deals, and reduced sentences. We are strategic, aggressive, and committed to your defense.

Don’t face your charges alone. Get a theft attorney Torrance residents rely on to fight back.

Call us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One conversation could change everything.

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