Facing theft crime charges in Torrance can put your future, reputation, and freedom at risk. Whether you are accused of shoplifting, embezzlement, burglary, or grand theft, you could be looking at jail time, costly fines, and a permanent criminal record. In more serious cases, prosecutors may pursue felony charges that can impact your employment opportunities, housing, and more—long after your case is closed.
When you are up against theft allegations, acting fast is crucial. Contact a seasoned California theft defense attorney at (562) 337-3990 to begin your defense today. The sooner we get started on your case, the more effectively we can fight to protect your rights and reduce the consequences you may face.
Theft crimes are covered under several sections of the California Penal Code, and the charges vary based on factors like the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the offense. While every case is different, theft generally involves taking someone else’s property without permission and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
Some of the most frequently charged theft crimes in Torrance include:
No matter which theft statute applies to your situation, our legal team at My Rights Law has the experience and strategies to help you navigate the legal system and fight your charges effectively.
Under California Penal Code 484(a), petty theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. In Torrance, these cases often involve shoplifting from retail stores, picking up lost items without reporting them, or other acts involving small-value property. Even though it might seem minor, a petty theft conviction can still have serious consequences, especially if you already have a record.
Penalty for a Petty Theft
Petty theft is typically charged as a misdemeanor and punishable by:
The specifics of the penalty can change depending on various factors, such as the type of victim (elderly, minor, disabled), whether any force was involved, or if you have prior theft-related convictions. In some cases, a prior petty theft can be elevated to a felony—making experienced Torrance theft defense critical in protecting your future.
Per Penal Code 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial business during normal hours with the intent to steal merchandise worth $950 or less. This law was established to separate minor retail thefts from more serious burglary charges.
Penalties for Shoplifting
If this is your first offense, there are often alternative sentencing options such as diversion programs or community service. A Torrance theft crimes lawyer can advocate for these options and potentially help you avoid a conviction altogether.
Under Penal Code 487(a), grand theft occurs when the value of stolen property exceeds $950, or when the stolen item is a firearm, vehicle, or certain livestock. Grand theft can happen in a single act or through a series of smaller thefts that add up over time. In Torrance, these charges are common in cases involving electronics, jewelry, or corporate property.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft is considered a “wobbler,” meaning it can be charged either as a misdemeanor or felony depending on the case details:
Felony charges can drastically affect your future, including your employment and housing opportunities. Having a knowledgeable Torrance theft defense attorney is key to minimizing or avoiding these long-term consequences through strategic legal action.
According to Penal Code 459, burglary is defined as entering any building (residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary is broken down into two types: first-degree (residential) and second-degree (non-residential). Torrance residents often face these charges following incidents in homes, offices, or stores.
Penalties for Burglary
Because burglary charges require proof of intent before entry, an experienced Torrance defense attorney can challenge that intent element to reduce or dismiss charges. Don’t face burglary accusations without legal representation.
Embezzlement, outlined in Penal Code 503, involves wrongfully appropriating money or property entrusted to someone, such as an employee taking company funds or a trustee mismanaging an account. In Torrance, this often arises in workplace settings or fiduciary relationships where the lines between access and ownership get blurred.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Even if the alleged act was a misunderstanding or miscommunication, you could still face charges. A Torrance theft attorney can help you develop a strong defense to show lack of intent and protect your personal and professional future.
Passed in 2014, Proposition 47 reclassified several non-violent theft offenses—including petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property—as misdemeanors when the value involved is $950 or less. This legal change gave thousands of Californians the opportunity to reduce their charges or request resentencing for older convictions.
If you're currently facing felony theft allegations or were previously convicted under the old law, our Torrance legal team can assess whether you qualify for relief under Prop 47. We can petition the court to reduce your charges and seek outcomes that better reflect the non-violent nature of your case.
Each theft case is different, but at My Rights Law, we implement proven strategies while adapting them to the specifics of your situation. Our core approaches include:
Intent is a critical element in theft cases. If we demonstrate that you didn’t mean to steal — for example, if it was a misunderstanding — we can work to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Theft accusations often rely on vague surveillance footage or unreliable witness testimony. If there’s doubt about your identity, we’ll aggressively challenge the prosecution’s case.
If law enforcement obtained evidence unlawfully — without proper warrants or by violating your rights — we’ll fight to have that evidence thrown out of court.
If the property in question was borrowed, gifted, or believed to be yours, we’ll argue that no crime was committed due to lack of unlawful intent.
For clients with no prior record, we may seek alternatives such as:
These solutions aim to resolve your case without a criminal conviction, protecting your future and reputation.
A theft charge can have lasting effects, but it's not the end. A skilled Torrance theft crime attorney can help you limit the damage and regain control of your life.
At My Rights Law, our experienced Torrance theft lawyers are known for securing case dismissals, favorable plea deals, and reduced sentences. We are strategic, aggressive, and committed to your defense.
Don’t face your charges alone. Get a theft attorney Torrance residents rely on to fight back.
Call us now at (562) 337-3990 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One conversation could change everything.
This page was written, edited, reviewed, and approved by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the managing partner and founder of My Rights Law and is widely recognized as a legal authority, frequently appearing as a legal analyst and TV pundit on national news outlets.
He has earned a perfect “10.0 – Top Attorney” rating on AVVO and a “10.0” rating on Justia, and has been named among the “Top 40 Under 40” and the “Top 100 Trial Lawyers” by The National Trial Lawyers.
With his proven expertise and dedication, Mr. Shamuilian is committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case.
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