Woodland Hills Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Woodland Hills – Free Strategy Session

Being charged with a theft crime in Woodland Hills puts your future and freedom in jeopardy, and time is critical. Theft offenses, including shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, embezzlement, and others, can result in jail sentences, hefty fines, and probation. In some situations, you may even face felony charges, which could remain on your criminal record permanently, affecting your life moving forward.

If you’re facing theft charges, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced Woodland Hills theft lawyer at (747) 249 5077. The sooner we begin working on your defense strategy, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.

Ready to speak with a Woodland Hills theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.

Common Woodland Hills Theft Crimes

Theft offenses in California fall under a range of categories, each with varying levels of severity and distinct legal consequences. All theft crimes share one common element: unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to steal. However, how the crime is prosecuted depends on specific factors surrounding the case. Some of the most common theft crime charges we handle in Woodland Hills 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 are facing, we know how to navigate the complexities of the legal system to fight for your rights. Let’s explore what each of these offenses means and how they could impact your case.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This typically includes minor shoplifting, pickpocketing, or other low-value thefts. Although it may seem like a small crime, petty theft can have serious consequences if not properly defended.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Petty theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor, and the penalties may include:

• 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 the punishment depends on factors like the value of the stolen goods, the victim (e.g., a business or an elderly person), and whether force or fear was used. Prior offenses can also escalate the charge, and in some cases, petty theft with prior convictions may result in felony charges and harsher penalties.

Shoplifting

According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting occurs when a person enters a commercial establishment with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. While similar to petty theft, shoplifting applies specifically to retail stores and is classified under a different statute.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Typically a misdemeanor
• Up to six months in jail
• Court fines and possible restitution
• If previously convicted of serious offenses, shoplifting may be upgraded to a felony

If shoplifting is your first offense, there may be opportunities for leniency. A Woodland Hills theft attorney can advocate for reduced sentencing, alternative sentencing options, or even a dismissal, depending on your circumstances.

Grand Theft

Under PC 487 (a), grand theft is committed when the value of the stolen property exceeds $950. This includes high-value items such as firearms, automobiles, or livestock, which are considered grand theft regardless of their value.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on factors like the value of the stolen property and other circumstances. Here’s how the penalties differ:

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

A felony conviction for grand theft can severely impact your life, from difficulty finding employment to potential issues with immigration status. An experienced Woodland Hills theft attorney can help defend you against felony charges and work to minimize the consequences of a conviction.

Burglary

Burglary, defined under PC 459, occurs when a person enters a structure (either residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. Burglary 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 is typically treated more harshly than other theft crimes due to the premeditated intent to enter a building. However, a skilled criminal defense attorney can challenge this element and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges altogether.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, as defined under PC 503, is the fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to someone, such as in cases involving employees or financial accounts.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Penalties vary based on the value of the embezzled property
• Less than $950: Misdemeanor
• More than $950: Felony
• May include restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and professional consequences

Even if the act was a mistake or a result of accounting errors, embezzlement can still lead to criminal charges. Hiring a qualified theft attorney in Woodland Hills is essential to proving lack of malicious intent and avoiding the serious consequences of an embezzlement charge.

Proposition 47

In 2014, Proposition 47 was passed, reducing the classification of many non-violent offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property, when the value is $950 or less.

Thanks to Prop 47, individuals facing theft charges for lower-value items may now be eligible for reduced sentencing. Additionally, if previously convicted under harsher laws, you may be able to petition for resentencing.

If you’re facing felony theft charges, our law firm can evaluate your case for potential Prop 47 relief and work to have your charges reduced to misdemeanors.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we apply common strategies while tailoring them to your specific situation. The main tactics we use include:

Lack of Intent

The core element of any crime, including theft, is malicious intent. If we can demonstrate that the theft was accidental or misunderstood, we may secure reduced or even dropped charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft cases often hinge on poor-quality video footage or unreliable eyewitnesses. If there is any doubt in the identification, we can challenge the entire case.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during a stop, search, or arrest, we may be able to suppress the evidence, weakening the prosecutor’s case.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the item in question was borrowed, gifted, or rightfully yours, we will present this defense to show 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 avoid a conviction and keep your record clean. Our main goal is not only to win but to protect your freedom, reputation, and future.

Protect Your Future – Contact With Woodland Hills Theft Crime Attorney

Being charged with a theft crime in California can be overwhelming, but it’s not the end of the world. With the help of an experienced Woodland Hills theft crime attorney, you can minimize the impact. Don’t let the prosecutor overwhelm you with charges and allegations—reach out for help early on.

At My Rights Law, our Woodland Hills theft lawyers have a proven track record of beating charges, negotiating favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail. We are relentless, strategic, and fully dedicated to protecting your rights.

Don’t face this alone. Get the defense you need from a theft attorney trusted by Woodland Hills clients to handle serious legal matters.

Call us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One call could make all the difference between jail time and walking free.

Ready to speak with a Woodland Hills theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (747) 249 5077 or contact us online.