Yorba Linda Theft Attorney

Theft Attorney in Yorba Linda – Free Strategy Session

Being accused of a theft crime in Yorba Linda puts your reputation, future, and freedom at risk. Every theft offense—from shoplifting to grand theft, burglary, embezzlement, and beyond—carries serious consequences, such as jail or prison time, costly fines, and the possibility of a permanent mark on your criminal record. In certain cases, you may even be facing felony charges that will follow you for life and impact your career and personal relationships.

If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a theft crime, do not delay—contact an experienced Yorba Linda theft attorney at (657) 378-7278 right away. The sooner you start building a solid defense with a knowledgeable legal advocate, the better your chances of reducing or avoiding the harsh consequences of a theft conviction.

Ready to speak with a Yorba Linda theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.

Common Yorba Linda Theft Crimes

Theft crimes are prosecuted under several sections of the California Penal Code. The penalties and approach for each case depend on the type of theft, the value of property involved, and the circumstances of the alleged offense. However, the core legal definition is the unlawful taking of another’s property with the intent to deprive them of it, either temporarily or permanently. Each type of theft charge comes with its own challenges and defense strategies, which is why experienced legal counsel is critical.

Some of the most common theft-related offenses charged in Yorba Linda 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 what specific theft charge you are facing, My Rights Law understands how to handle your case from start to finish. Let’s look at each of these offenses in detail and explain how they may be prosecuted and defended in court.

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code section 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. Most often, petty theft covers minor incidents like shoplifting small items, pickpocketing, or other forms of theft where the property’s value is below the threshold. Even though these offenses may seem minor, being charged with petty theft in Yorba Linda can have serious consequences for your record and future. A conviction can result in fines, jail time, and additional penalties that follow you for years.

Penalty for a Petty Theft

Typically, petty theft is charged as a misdemeanor and entails such punishments as:

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

The exact penalty depends on factors such as the value of the stolen goods and circumstances surrounding the case (for example, whether the victim is an elderly person or a minor, or if force was involved). If you have prior theft-related convictions, you may face harsher consequences, including felony charges under California’s “petty theft with a prior” rule. The help of a Yorba Linda theft attorney can be critical in keeping charges at the misdemeanor level and avoiding unnecessary long-term consequences.

Shoplifting

Under Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering an open business during regular hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. Shoplifting is a common charge in retail settings and can happen in a split second—even if it wasn’t planned in advance. A shoplifting charge may seem straightforward, but there are many defenses and alternatives available for first-time or non-violent offenders in Yorba Linda.

Penalties for Shoplifting

• Usually a misdemeanor offense
• Up to 6 months in county jail
• Court fines and potential restitution
• Shoplifting may be charged as a felony if you have prior convictions for serious crimes (like murder or certain sex offenses)

If you’re facing your first shoplifting charge, a skilled Yorba Linda theft crime lawyer can often negotiate alternative sentencing, reduced charges, or even dismissal. Every case is different, so legal guidance is essential to achieve the best possible outcome.

Grand Theft

According to Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the value of property stolen is more than $950. Grand theft also applies to specific types of property, including firearms, vehicles, and certain livestock, no matter the value. This makes grand theft a more serious charge than petty theft and exposes you to higher stakes if convicted in Yorba Linda.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft is a “wobbler” in California, meaning it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the facts of your case and your criminal history. Potential penalties include:

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

Felony grand theft convictions carry significant consequences, not just criminally, but also when it comes to your ability to find work, housing, and, for non-citizens, even immigration status. For this reason, it is critical to have an experienced Yorba Linda theft lawyer fighting for your rights, working to reduce charges, or even secure a case dismissal when possible.

Burglary

California Penal Code 459 makes it a crime to enter any building (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony inside. Burglary is divided into first-degree (residential) and second-degree (commercial) offenses, with first-degree burglary carrying much harsher penalties. Unlike other theft crimes, the focus here is on your intent at the time of entry rather than what was actually stolen.

Penalties for Burglary

• First-degree burglary: Always a felony
• 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Strike offense under California’s Three Strikes Law
• Second-degree burglary: Wobbler (misdemeanor or felony)
• Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony: Up to 3 years in state prison

Burglary is taken extremely seriously in Yorba Linda, especially if it involves a home. However, proving intent is key, and a skilled defense attorney can often challenge the evidence and argue for reduced charges or dismissal based on lack of intent or misunderstanding.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement, covered under Penal Code 503, is the act of wrongfully taking or using property that was entrusted to you, most commonly in the context of employment or financial responsibilities. Unlike other forms of theft, embezzlement focuses on the breach of trust, making these cases complicated and potentially damaging to your reputation and career.

Penalties for Embezzlement

• Punishment depends on the value of property involved
• Less than $950: Usually a misdemeanor
• Over $950: Can be charged as a felony
• Possible restitution, fines, jail or prison time, and loss of professional licenses

Even if the situation was the result of a misunderstanding or mistake, you can still be charged. The best course of action is to consult with a Yorba Linda theft attorney who can build a defense showing lack of intent, accounting errors, or another valid explanation, helping you avoid a criminal conviction that could ruin your career.

Proposition 47

In 2014, California voters approved Proposition 47, which reclassified many non-violent theft and drug offenses as misdemeanors instead of felonies. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property where the value is $950 or less.

This law allows many people convicted of theft crimes before 2014 to apply for resentencing or to have their felony convictions reduced to misdemeanors. If you or a loved one are facing felony theft charges in Yorba Linda, or have a prior felony conviction for a qualifying offense, My Rights Law can evaluate your case to determine if you qualify for Proposition 47 relief. Our attorneys work to help you secure reduced charges or even resentencing, protecting your future and your record.

Defending Strategy Against Theft Charges

Every theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we rely on proven strategies tailored to your situation. Our main tactics often include:

Lack of Intent

The core element of theft is intent. If we can demonstrate the act was accidental or a misunderstanding, we fight for reduced or dismissed charges.

Mistaken Identity

Theft allegations frequently stem from unclear video or unreliable witnesses. If your identity is uncertain, we aggressively challenge the prosecution’s evidence.

Illegal Search and Seizure

If your rights were violated during a stop, search, or arrest, we move to suppress any evidence and weaken the case against you.

Consent or Ownership Dispute

If the property was borrowed, gifted, or actually yours, we build a defense to show there was no criminal intent or unlawful taking.

Diversion and Probation Options

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

• Pretrial diversion programs
• Probation as an alternative to jail
• Theft education courses

These measures help you avoid a conviction and safeguard your future. Our mission is always to protect your freedom, reputation, and long-term interests.

Protect Your Future – Contact a Yorba Linda Theft Crime Attorney

Facing theft charges in California may feel overwhelming, but it’s not the end. The impact can be serious, but a skilled Yorba Linda theft attorney can minimize the consequences. Don’t let the prosecution get ahead of you—get legal help as soon as possible.
At My Rights Law, our Yorba Linda team is known for beating charges, negotiating great results, and keeping clients out of jail. We are tenacious, strategic, and fully committed to defending your rights.

Don’t go through this alone. Choose a theft lawyer Yorba Linda residents trust for their toughest legal battles.

Call us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation. One call could make all the difference for your future.

Ready to speak with a Yorba Linda theft crime attorney? Contact us now at (657) 378-7278 or contact us online.