Wildomar Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Wildomar – Free Strategy Session

Facing theft charges in Wildomar puts your future and liberty on the line, and every moment counts. Theft offenses, including shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, carry potential penalties such as jail time, hefty fines, and probation. Some cases might even result in a felony conviction that remains on your criminal record permanently, affecting your life ahead.

If you are accused of a theft-related crime, don’t delay — contact a skilled California theft defense attorney at (951) 412-3018 immediately. The sooner we begin crafting your defense, the better your chances of reducing the charges and penalties.

Ready to speak with a Wildomar theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online.

Common Wildomar Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are categorized under various sections of the California Penal Code, and each carries distinct legal consequences based on the crime’s nature and circumstances. Fundamentally, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with intent to permanently deprive them of it. In Wildomar, some of the most frequent theft charges 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, we have the expertise to handle your case. Below, we explain each type and how prosecutors typically approach them.

Petty Theft

Penal Code section 484(a) defines petty theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This typically covers minor acts such as shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other thefts involving low-value items.

Penalty for Petty Theft

Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor, and possible punishments include:

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

The exact severity of penalties depends on factors like the value of stolen goods, the victim’s circumstances (such as a business, elderly or disabled person, or minor), use of force or fear, and prior offenses. Repeat petty theft charges may lead to felony enhancement, which carries harsher consequences. An experienced Wildomar theft attorney can help navigate these complexities to minimize the impact on your life.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when a person enters a commercial establishment during regular business hours intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually charged as a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• Felony charges possible if the offender has prior serious convictions (such as rape, murder, or sex crimes)

If this is your first shoplifting offense, there are often opportunities for reduced sentences, alternative punishments, or even dismissal. A Wildomar theft lawyer can aggressively pursue these options to protect your rights and future.

Grand Theft

According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when stolen property exceeds $950 in value. This also includes theft involving firearms, vehicles, or certain livestock.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, based on circumstances and value. Penalties include:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft can have long-lasting effects beyond the courtroom, such as difficulties in securing employment, housing, and immigration issues. Hiring a skilled Wildomar theft attorney is essential to fight felony charges and protect your future.

Burglary

Penal Code 459 defines burglary as entering any building—residential or commercial—with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. This includes first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) burglary.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary is always 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
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Burglary carries harsher penalties because it requires intent before entry. However, a knowledgeable Wildomar criminal defense attorney can challenge the prosecution’s proof of intent to seek charge reductions or dismissal.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, under Penal Code 503, involves the fraudulent taking of property by someone entrusted with it, often in employment or financial account contexts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Charges depend on the value of the property taken
• Less than $950: typically a misdemeanor
• Over $950: typically a felony
• Possible restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional consequences

Because embezzlement can arise even from misunderstandings or accounting errors, it is critical to have a Wildomar theft lawyer to prove lack of malicious intent and clarify the facts to protect your rights and future.

Proposition 47

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

This reform allows many defendants to receive reduced sentences or apply for resentencing if previously convicted under harsher felony laws.

If you face felony theft charges in Wildomar, our law firm can review your case for possible Proposition 47 relief and advocate for misdemeanor treatment to reduce your penalties.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven strategies tailored to your unique situation. Common defenses include:

Lack of Intent

Intent is essential in theft crimes. If we show the taking was accidental or misunderstood, we can fight for reduced or dismissed charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft accusations often depend on weak evidence or eyewitness mistakes. If you were misidentified, we challenge the case to protect your rights.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If police violated your constitutional rights during arrest or search, we seek to suppress that evidence, significantly weakening the prosecution’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

When the property was borrowed, gifted, or yours, we present this defense to prove no unlawful taking occurred.

Diversion and Probation Options

For first-time offenders, possible alternatives include:

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

These options help avoid convictions and protect your future. Our priority is defending your freedom and reputation.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Wildomar Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with theft in California is stressful, but it doesn’t have to ruin your life. A skilled Wildomar theft attorney can help minimize consequences.

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

Don’t face this challenge alone. Hire a Wildomar theft defense lawyer trusted to fight for you.

Call us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call could save your freedom.

Ready to speak with a Wildomar theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (951) 412-3018 or contact us online.