Upland Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Upland – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft offense in Upland puts your future and liberty at serious risk, and every moment counts. Theft crimes come in many forms, including shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and more. Each carries potential penalties such as jail time, fines, and probation. In certain situations, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that could remain on your criminal record permanently.

If you face theft charges, do not delay—contact a knowledgeable California theft defense attorney at (909) 330-3880 immediately. Early action is critical to crafting a strong defense and protecting your rights.

Ready to speak with a Upland theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online.

Common Upland Theft Crimes

Theft offenses are categorized under various sections of the California Penal Code. Depending on the nature and specifics of the crime, prosecution methods can differ significantly. The common thread for all theft crimes is the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with intent to steal.

Some of the most frequent theft charges we handle in Upland 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 charge you face, our team has the expertise to develop an effective defense tailored to your case. Let’s explore what each charge entails and how it might be prosecuted.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This offense commonly includes minor acts like shoplifting, pickpocketing, or stealing items of relatively low value. Although often perceived as less severe, petty theft charges still carry significant consequences.

Penalties for Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor and may result in penalties such as:

• Up to 6 months in county jail
• A fine reaching $1,000
• Probation, community service, or enrollment in theft prevention courses

The severity of penalties depends on factors like the value of the stolen goods, the nature of the victim (such as businesses, seniors, disabled individuals, or minors), and whether any force or intimidation was involved. Additionally, prior theft convictions can escalate the charge to petty theft with a prior, potentially resulting in felony charges and harsher punishments.

Shoplifting

Per PC 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a retail business during regular hours intending to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This specific offense is distinct from burglary and focuses solely on theft occurring within commercial establishments.

Shoplifting Penalties

• Typically charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Fines and possible restitution payments
• Felony charges possible if the defendant has prior serious convictions (e.g., sex crimes, murder)

First-time offenders may qualify for leniency such as reduced sentences, alternative sentencing options, or case dismissals. An experienced Upland theft attorney can aggressively advocate to minimize the impact of shoplifting charges on your record and future.

Grand Theft

According to PC 487(a), grand theft applies when stolen property exceeds a value of $950, or when specific items such as firearms, vehicles, or certain livestock are involved. Grand theft is a serious offense with potentially severe consequences.

Grand Theft Penalties

Grand theft is classified as a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or a felony based on the circumstances and property value:

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

A felony conviction can deeply affect your life beyond the courtroom, making employment, housing, and immigration status difficult to manage. A knowledgeable Upland theft attorney will work diligently to protect your rights and reduce the risks associated with grand theft charges.

Burglary

Per PC 459, burglary is defined as unlawfully entering a building—whether residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. It encompasses first-degree burglary (residential) and second-degree burglary (commercial).

Burglary Penalties

• First-degree burglary is always a felony
• 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 the intent to commit a crime before entering, it is treated more severely than other theft offenses. However, a skilled Upland criminal defense attorney can challenge the intent element to reduce or dismiss the charges entirely.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under PC 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by a person who was trusted with it. This commonly arises in employment contexts or where someone has control over financial accounts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property involved:
• Less than $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• More than $950: Usually charged as a felony
• Penalties may include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional repercussions

Even honest mistakes or accounting errors can lead to embezzlement charges. The best way to protect your future is to obtain experienced theft attorney representation in Upland. We will help demonstrate a lack of criminal intent and clarify facts to build a strong defense.

Proposition 47

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

This reform allows many defendants to seek reduced sentences or even resentencing if previously convicted under harsher felony classifications.

If you face felony theft charges in Upland, our legal team can review your case for eligibility under Proposition 47 and advocate for misdemeanor treatment or sentence reduction.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

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

Lack of Intent

Intent is essential for theft charges. If we show the taking was accidental or misunderstood, we can seek reduced charges or dismissal entirely.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often depend on unreliable witnesses or unclear video. If you are not definitively identified, we will challenge the validity of the case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during search or arrest, we can move to exclude improperly obtained evidence to weaken the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If you borrowed, were given, or own the item in question, we will argue there was no unlawful taking or theft.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as an alternative to jail
• Theft prevention education

These options can help avoid conviction and protect your clean record. Our priority is safeguarding your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Upland Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with theft in California can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to define your life. A skilled Upland theft crime attorney can reduce these impacts.

My Rights Law has a strong history of defeating charges, negotiating better outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail. We are relentless and committed to your defense.

Don’t face this challenge alone. Hire the theft defense lawyer Upland residents trust with their most serious cases.

Call us now at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call could change everything.

Ready to speak with a Upland theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (909) 330-3880 or contact us online.