West Covina Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in West Covina – Free Strategy Session

If you’re facing theft charges in West Covina, your future and freedom are at serious risk—and the clock is ticking. Theft crimes, including burglary, shoplifting, grand theft, and embezzlement, carry severe penalties such as jail time, costly fines, and probation. Depending on the circumstances, you may even face a felony conviction, permanently marking your criminal record and impacting your life for years to come.

When charged with a theft offense, it’s critical to act fast and secure expert legal representation. Reach out to a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (626) 412-4840 immediately. Every minute counts, and promptly building your defense strategy is essential for reducing or even eliminating the charges against you.

Ready to speak with a West Covina theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.

Common West Covina Theft Crimes

The California Penal Code categorizes theft offenses into different types based on the nature and severity of the crime. Each category carries distinct legal implications and requires specialized defense strategies. However, all theft crimes share the fundamental definition of unlawfully taking property belonging to someone else with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Common theft offenses we frequently encounter in West Covina 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 the theft charge you face, our experienced attorneys know exactly how to tackle your case. Let’s clearly define each of these offenses and explore how they can potentially impact your case.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft refers to the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Common examples include minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value thefts. Typically, this offense is classified as a misdemeanor, but it can carry significant consequences for your future.

Penalties for Petty Theft

Petty theft is often charged as a misdemeanor and may include the following penalties:

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

In some cases, the severity of the punishment depends on the value of the stolen property, the victim (e.g., a business, elderly, disabled, or minor), or the use of force or fear. Additionally, a previous criminal history may result in a “petty theft with a prior” charge, which could elevate the offense to a felony with harsher penalties.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when an individual enters a commercial establishment with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less during regular business hours.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually classified as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• If there are prior serious offenses (such as rape or murder), shoplifting can be elevated to a felony charge

For first-time offenders, a skilled West Covina theft attorney may be able to negotiate a reduced sentence, explore alternative sentencing options, or even seek a dismissal of the charge entirely.

Grand Theft

As defined by PC 487(a), grand theft involves the unlawful taking of property valued at more than $950. It also applies to specific items, including firearms, automobiles, or certain types of livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances and value of the stolen property, making it a “wobbler” crime. Below are the penalties for both classifications:

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

Being convicted of a felony for grand theft can affect your life far beyond legal consequences, including difficulties in securing employment, housing, and potential immigration issues. You need an experienced theft attorney in West Covina to help mitigate the risks and fight felony charges effectively.

Burglary

California Penal Code section 459 defines burglary as unlawfully entering a structure (either residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or any other felony inside. Burglary can be classified as either first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial) burglary.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always classified as a felony
• Penalties range from 2 to 6 years in state prison
• Considered a strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary is considered a “wobbler”
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

Burglary charges are often treated much more severely than other theft crimes because they involve premeditated intent to enter. However, a skilled West Covina defense attorney can challenge this intent element, potentially reducing or even dismissing the charges against you.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under Penal Code 503, refers to the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone who was entrusted with it. This crime most often occurs in employment or financial account settings.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Penalties depend on the value of the stolen property
• Under $950: Misdemeanor
• Over $950: Felony
• Potential penalties include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional consequences

Embezzlement charges can arise even if the theft was a misunderstanding or accounting mistake. To prevent an innocent error from damaging your future, securing a qualified West Covina theft attorney is crucial. They will work to clarify the facts and build a defense based on the lack of malicious intent.

Proposition 47

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

This law provides individuals previously convicted of certain theft-related offenses the possibility for reduced sentencing or even resentencing.

If you are facing felony theft charges, our team at My Rights Law can evaluate your case for Prop 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment in your case.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, and at My Rights Law, we customize our strategies to fit your specific situation. Our defense tactics include:

Lack of Intent

To prove theft, malicious intent is required. If we can demonstrate that the theft was accidental or misunderstood, we can work towards reducing or even dismissing the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Many theft charges rely on poor video evidence or unreliable eyewitnesses. If there’s no clear identification, we’ll challenge the legitimacy of the entire case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

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

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the item was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we can assert this defense to demonstrate that there was no unlawful taking.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may pursue:

• Pretrial diversion
• Probation instead of jail time
• Theft education programs

These options help prevent a conviction and maintain a clean record. Our primary goal is to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact a West Covina Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in West Covina may feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the world. A skilled attorney can help you minimize the consequences. Don’t face this challenge alone—get help today.

At My Rights Law, our experienced theft crime team has a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes and keeping clients out of jail. We are relentless in protecting your rights.

Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or schedule a free consultation online. One call could make the difference between jail time and freedom.

Ready to speak with a West Covina theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (626) 412-4840 or contact us online.