Ventura Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Ventura – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Ventura puts your future and freedom at risk, and every moment counts. Theft offenses can range from shoplifting and burglary to grand theft and embezzlement, each carrying serious penalties like jail time, fines, and probation. In many cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that result in a permanent criminal record impacting your life long-term.

If you are facing theft charges, don’t delay—contact a dedicated California theft lawyer at (805) 263-1499 immediately. Acting quickly is critical to building a strong defense and protecting your rights throughout the legal process.

Ready to speak with a Ventura theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (805) 263-1499 or contact us online.

Common Ventura Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California are categorized under various Penal Code sections. The specific charge depends on the details and seriousness of the crime, requiring tailored defense strategies for each type. Legally, theft involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with intent to steal.

Some of the most frequently encountered theft charges in Ventura 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 are facing, we understand how to approach your case effectively. Below, we explain each offense and how it may be prosecuted under California law.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This usually involves minor offenses such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or low-value thefts.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Petty theft is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor and may carry penalties including:

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

The seriousness of the penalty depends on factors such as the value of the stolen items and circumstances involving the victim—like if they are a business, senior, disabled, or a minor—as well as whether force or fear was used. Prior convictions may result in enhanced charges, such as petty theft with a prior, which can escalate to a felony and bring stiffer consequences.

Shoplifting

Under PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when someone enters a commercial establishment during normal business hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Generally charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court-ordered fines and potential restitution
• Felony charges possible for individuals with serious prior convictions

If shoplifting is your first offense, you may be eligible for leniency. A knowledgeable Ventura theft attorney can work to reduce your sentence, pursue alternative sentencing options, or potentially get your case dismissed.

Grand Theft

According to PC 487(a), grand theft involves stealing property valued above $950. This also includes thefts of firearms, automobiles, or certain livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft can be prosecuted either as a misdemeanor or felony (“wobbler”), depending on the value involved and specific circumstances. Typical 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 carries significant lifelong consequences, affecting employment opportunities, housing, and immigration status. To minimize these risks, it’s critical to hire an experienced Ventura theft attorney skilled in defending against felony theft charges.

Burglary

PC 459 defines burglary as entering a residential or commercial structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Burglary is categorized as first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial).

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always charged as 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 offense
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

Because burglary requires proving intent to commit a felony prior to entry, it is treated more severely than other theft crimes. However, a skilled Ventura defense attorney can challenge this element, potentially reducing or dismissing the charges.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under PC 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with it, often occurring in workplace or financial account contexts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges vary based on property value
• Less than $950: Typically a misdemeanor
• More than $950: Usually a felony
• May include restitution, fines, incarceration, and professional consequences

Embezzlement cases can be complicated since even misunderstandings or accounting errors may lead to charges. A knowledgeable theft attorney in Ventura can help build a defense that disproves malicious intent and clarifies facts to protect your future.

Proposition 47

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

This change allows many defendants to receive reduced sentences or even resentencing if they were previously convicted under harsher laws.

If you are facing felony theft charges, our law firm can review your case for potential Proposition 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment to lessen your penalties.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

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

Lack of Intent

A crucial element of theft charges is proving intent to steal. If we can show the alleged act was accidental or misunderstood, we can push for reduced charges or dismissal.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often depend on unclear video footage or unreliable eyewitness accounts. If you cannot be positively identified, we will challenge the validity of the prosecution’s evidence.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If your constitutional rights were violated during police stops, searches, or arrests, we can file motions to exclude the evidence, weakening the prosecution’s case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or legitimately yours, we will argue there was no unlawful taking, which can lead to case dismissal or favorable resolution.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, alternatives such as:

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

can help avoid convictions and keep your record clean. Our priority is to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Ventura Theft Crime Attorney

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

At My Rights Law, our experienced team has a strong record of beating charges, negotiating favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail. We are relentless and dedicated to protecting your rights.

Don’t navigate this alone. Reach out to a Ventura theft defense lawyer trusted by local clients for serious legal battles.

Call us now at (805) 263-1499 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call can make all the difference.

Ready to speak with a Ventura theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (805) 263-1499 or contact us online.