Whittier Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Whittier – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Whittier can have severe consequences for your future and freedom. Theft charges can include various offenses such as shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and more. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction could lead to significant penalties, including jail time, fines, and probation. In some cases, a felony charge can result in a permanent criminal record that may impact your life forever.

If you’ve been charged with theft, don’t hesitate to get in touch with an experienced theft attorney at (562) 203-0434. Acting quickly is crucial to building an effective defense strategy, as time is of the essence.

Ready to speak with a Whittier theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (562) 203-0434 or contact us online.

Common Whittier Theft Crimes

Theft crimes in California encompass a broad range of offenses, each with its own set of legal requirements and potential defenses. The legal definition of theft generally involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Based on the specifics of the crime, the prosecution may treat it differently, making it vital to tailor the defense accordingly. Below are some common theft crimes seen in Whittier:

• 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 have the expertise to guide you through it. Let’s break down each of these offenses and explain how they may 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 type of theft typically includes minor offenses like shoplifting, pickpocketing, or stealing small items. While the theft may seem insignificant, it can still have serious consequences.

Penalties for Petty Theft

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

The severity of penalties can be influenced by the value of the stolen items, the identity of the victim (e.g., a business, elderly person, or minor), or the use of force or fear. Prior criminal offenses may also result in enhanced charges, leading to a felony conviction and harsher penalties.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting involves entering a commercial establishment during business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. While shoplifting is often categorized as a minor crime, its impact can still result in severe legal consequences.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to 6 months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• If you have prior serious offenses, such as rape or murder, shoplifting may be elevated to a felony

If this is your first offense, a skilled theft lawyer in Whittier may help reduce the charges, propose alternative sentencing options, or even secure a dismissal.

Grand Theft

Grand theft is defined under PC 487(a) as the unlawful taking of property valued at over $950. This charge can also apply to cases involving firearms, vehicles, or certain types of livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft may be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the value of the stolen property. Below are the potential penalties:

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

A felony conviction can have long-lasting impacts on your life, making it harder to secure employment or housing, and possibly even affecting your immigration status. With the right defense, however, a skilled theft attorney in Whittier can help mitigate these risks.

Burglary

Burglary is defined by PC 459 as entering a structure, either residential or commercial, with the intent to commit theft or another felony. This includes both first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) burglary.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary (residential) is always a felony:
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Considered a strike offense 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 charges often carry more severe penalties than other theft-related crimes due to the premeditated intent required for entry. However, a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney in Whittier can often challenge this element of intent to reduce or dismiss charges.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, as defined under PC 503, refers to the fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to a person, often in employment or financial settings. The crime can occur when someone takes money or property from an employer or business that they were entrusted to manage.

Penalties for Embezzlement

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

Many individuals are charged with embezzlement even when the offense was unintentional, such as due to a mistake or misunderstanding in accounting. To protect your future and clarify the facts, working with a skilled theft attorney in Whittier can help build a defense strategy that challenges any allegations of malicious intent.

Proposition 47

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

This change has enabled many defendants to seek reduced sentences or even resentencing if they were previously convicted under stricter felony classifications.

If you’re facing felony theft charges, our experienced legal team can evaluate your case for Proposition 47 relief and fight to have your charges reduced to misdemeanors.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, and at My Rights Law, we tailor our strategies to the specifics of your situation. Our primary defense tactics include:

Lack of Intent

The core of any crime, including theft, is the intent to commit it. If we can show that the action was accidental or misunderstood, we can argue for reduced charges or even dismissal of the case.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often rely on unclear video footage or unreliable eyewitness testimony. If we can show that you were misidentified, we can challenge the credibility of the case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your rights during a search or arrest, we can challenge the evidence collected and weaken the prosecutor’s case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we’ll present this defense to show there was no criminal intent or unlawful taking.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, we may seek alternatives to jail time, such as:

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

These options can help avoid a conviction and keep your record clean. Our goal is to protect your future, reputation, and freedom.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Whittier Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in Whittier doesn’t have to destroy your life. With a skilled theft attorney, you can minimize the consequences. At My Rights Law, we specialize in aggressive defense strategies that keep our clients out of jail.

Don’t tackle this challenge alone. Trust the experienced Whittier theft attorneys at My Rights Law to protect your rights and secure your future.

Call us now at (562) 203-0434 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Your future is worth fighting for.

Ready to speak with a Whittier theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (562) 203-0434 or contact us online.