Westminster Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Westminster – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft crime charges in Westminster puts your reputation, career, and freedom at risk. The stakes are high and every moment counts. There are many forms of theft offenses in California, including shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and more. Any of these can result in jail time, hefty fines, and lasting damage to your record. In serious cases, you may be charged with a felony that will stay on your criminal history and affect you for years to come.

If you have been accused of a theft crime, don’t delay. Reach out to a knowledgeable California theft attorney at (714) 248-8111. Time is of the essence, so the sooner you begin building your defense, the better your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.

Ready to speak with a Westminster theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online.

Common Westminster Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are outlined under multiple sections of the California Penal Code. The seriousness and circumstances surrounding the alleged offense can impact how it is prosecuted, making it critical to approach every case with a tailored defense. Regardless of the type, theft is defined legally as unlawfully taking another person’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. Westminster residents are often charged with:

• 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 what theft statute you’re facing, My Rights Law has the expertise to address it. Let’s review what each charge involves and how it may be prosecuted in Westminster courts.

Petty Theft

Under California Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft in Westminster is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. These cases often involve situations like shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value thefts from retail stores or individuals. While the amount may seem minor, a conviction for petty theft can still carry serious consequences that may affect your future.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is typically prosecuted as a misdemeanor and may result in:

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

The punishment you face may depend on the circumstances of your case, including the value of the items taken, the identity of the victim, and whether there are any aggravating factors. Prior theft convictions can elevate your case to “petty theft with a prior,” which could be treated as a felony and bring much harsher penalties. For this reason, it’s critical to have a Westminster theft attorney who can fight to protect your rights and pursue the most favorable outcome.

Shoplifting

California Penal Code 459.5(a) classifies shoplifting as entering a commercial business during regular hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Shoplifting is a specific charge, separate from general theft, and usually applies to acts committed in retail environments.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Generally charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Possible fines and restitution to the store owner
• If you have prior convictions for certain serious felonies, shoplifting can be filed as a felony

First-time offenders may be eligible for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, such as diversion programs. A Westminster theft defense lawyer can advocate for a dismissal or reduced penalties, especially for those with no prior record. Don’t risk a permanent mark on your record—seek experienced legal guidance right away.

Grand Theft

According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft in Westminster occurs when someone steals property valued over $950, or in cases involving certain types of property such as firearms or vehicles. Grand theft is considered more serious due to the higher value involved or the nature of the item stolen.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances. Possible penalties include:

• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison
• Restitution to victims and formal probation

A felony conviction for grand theft can have serious consequences beyond jail time, including long-term issues with employment, housing, and immigration status. To minimize these risks, it’s vital to have a skilled Westminster theft attorney on your side who can negotiate for a reduction of charges or develop an effective defense strategy to challenge the prosecution’s case.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any building—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary is further classified into first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) charges.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential) is always a felony
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Counts as a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary (commercial) is a wobbler
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in prison

Burglary allegations are prosecuted aggressively, as intent to commit a crime prior to entry elevates the severity of the case. However, with a strong legal advocate in Westminster, you may be able to challenge the intent element or negotiate for lesser charges, significantly improving your chances of a favorable outcome.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, governed by Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent appropriation of property by someone entrusted with its care—most often in the context of employment or business relationships. It can result from alleged misuse of company funds, unauthorized transfers, or mismanagement of entrusted property.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charged based on the value of the misappropriated property
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• Possible jail or prison time, restitution, and professional disciplinary consequences

Embezzlement charges are often filed even if the incident stemmed from a misunderstanding or an honest mistake. Because these cases can be complex and involve substantial financial documentation, you need an experienced theft lawyer in Westminster who can investigate, challenge intent, and work to resolve the case without a damaging conviction.

Proposition 47

Proposition 47, passed in California in 2014, significantly changed the penalties for many non-violent theft crimes. Under this law, offenses such as petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—where the value is $950 or less—are now prosecuted as misdemeanors rather than felonies.

This means many individuals facing theft charges may be eligible for reduced sentences or resentencing if they were previously convicted under harsher laws. If you or a loved one are charged with felony theft in Westminster, our legal team can review your case for possible relief under Prop 47 and advocate for the most favorable outcome.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but My Rights Law applies proven strategies while tailoring our approach to your circumstances. Our primary tactics include:

Lack of Intent

A key element of theft is intent. If we can demonstrate the absence of intent—such as an accident or misunderstanding—we fight to reduce or dismiss the charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often rely on unreliable witnesses or poor-quality footage. If your identity is unclear, we will challenge the validity of the prosecution’s case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we can seek to exclude unlawfully obtained evidence and weaken the prosecutor’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully belonged to you, we will assert this defense to show 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 alternatives can help you avoid a conviction and protect your future. Our goal is to defend your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Westminster Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California is stressful, but it doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled Westminster theft crime attorney can help minimize the impact. Don’t let the prosecution overwhelm you—take action now.

At My Rights Law, our Westminster theft lawyers have a strong record of dismissing charges, negotiating favorable deals, and keeping clients out of jail. We’re relentless, strategic, and dedicated to your defense.

Don’t go through this alone. Trust the theft attorney Westminster residents rely on for serious legal help.

Call us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online for a free consultation. One call can be the difference between jail and your freedom.

Ready to speak with a Westminster theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (714) 248-8111 or contact us online.