Being charged with a theft crime in Westlake Village puts your future and freedom at serious risk. The consequences of theft charges can include jail time, fines, and probation. Whether you're facing accusations of shoplifting, burglary, grand theft, or embezzlement, the stakes are high. In some instances, a theft conviction could lead to a felony record that will follow you for life. Don’t wait to secure your defense.
If you’ve been charged with a theft crime, time is of the essence. Call a skilled theft attorney at (805) 277-2011 for a consultation. The sooner you begin your defense strategy, the better your chances of reducing the impact of these charges.
The California Penal Code outlines various theft crimes, and each has specific legal nuances based on its severity and circumstances. All theft crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. However, depending on the type of theft, your defense strategy will vary. Below are some of the most common theft crime charges in Westlake Village:
No matter what theft charge you face, we’re here to help. Our experienced attorneys will explain the specifics of your charge and devise the best legal approach to defend your case.
Under California Penal Code Section 484(a), petty theft is the unlawful taking of property valued at $950 or less. This typically includes offenses like shoplifting, pickpocketing, or taking minor items without consent. Even though petty theft may seem like a minor crime, it can still have serious legal consequences.
Penalties for Petty Theft
The severity of the punishment often depends on the value of the stolen items and specific factors such as the victim (e.g., a business, elderly or disabled persons, minors, etc.), the use of force or fear, and whether prior offenses are involved. If you have previous theft convictions, it may lead to a charge of "petty theft with a prior," which could be elevated to a felony with harsher penalties.
According to PC 459.5(a), shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
Penalties for Shoplifting
If this is your first offense, a skilled Westlake Village theft attorney can help reduce the consequences, argue for alternative sentencing, or even aim for a dismissal of charges altogether.
As defined under PC 487(a), grand theft occurs when the value of stolen property exceeds $950. This category of theft also applies to cases involving firearms, automobiles, and certain livestock.
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances, such as the value of the property involved. It is considered a "wobbler" offense, meaning it can be reduced or elevated based on factors like prior convictions or the nature of the theft. Here's a breakdown of the potential penalties:
A felony conviction can greatly affect your future, making it difficult to secure employment or housing. If you're facing grand theft charges, it’s important to have an experienced Westlake Village theft attorney who can defend against felony accusations and mitigate penalties.
Burglary is defined under PC 459 as entering a structure (whether residential or commercial) with the intent to commit theft or another felony. Burglary can be classified as first-degree (residential) or second-degree (commercial), with first-degree being more severe.
Penalties for Burglary
Burglary charges are treated more severely than other theft offenses because they require intent before entry. A knowledgeable Westlake Village criminal defense attorney can challenge this element and potentially reduce the charges or have them dismissed.
Embezzlement (PC 503) involves the fraudulent appropriation of property entrusted to someone, often in employment or financial settings. Unlike other theft crimes, embezzlement often stems from a breach of trust, rather than a theft from a stranger.
Penalties for Embezzlement
Embezzlement cases often involve misunderstandings or accounting errors. If you’re facing charges, it’s crucial to have a skilled Westlake Village theft lawyer who can build a defense strategy and prove that no malicious intent was involved.
In 2014, Proposition 47 was passed, reducing the classification of many non-violent theft offenses from felonies to misdemeanors. This includes petty theft, shoplifting, and receiving stolen property when the value is $950 or less.
Thanks to Proposition 47, many individuals facing felony theft charges can now be eligible for reduced sentencing or even resentencing if they were previously convicted under stricter laws.
If you're facing felony theft charges in Westlake Village, our law firm can evaluate your case for Proposition 47 relief and push for misdemeanor treatment, potentially reducing the penalties you face.
Each theft case is unique, but at My Rights Law, we apply proven strategies tailored to your specific situation. Common tactics we use include:
The core element of any crime, including theft, is the intent to commit it. If we can show that the act was accidental or misunderstood, we can challenge the charges and seek a reduction or dismissal.
Theft cases often hinge on poor-quality evidence or unreliable eyewitnesses. If you weren't clearly identified, we can challenge the case and fight for your innocence.
If your constitutional rights were violated during a search, stop, or arrest, we can have the evidence suppressed and undermine the prosecutor’s case against you.
If the item was rightfully yours, borrowed, or gifted, we will assert this defense to show there was no unlawful taking involved.
For first-time offenders, we may pursue options such as:
These alternatives help prevent a conviction and protect your criminal record. Our primary goal is to safeguard your freedom, reputation, and future.
While a theft charge in California may seem overwhelming, it doesn’t have to define your future. A skilled Westlake Village theft crime attorney can help minimize the consequences. Don't let the prosecutor overwhelm you with charges and accusations—get help early.
At My Rights Law, our theft lawyers have a proven history of beating charges, securing favorable outcomes, and keeping clients out of jail. We are committed, strategic, and focused on protecting your rights.
Don’t face this alone. Trust the theft crime lawyer Westlake Village residents count on to manage their toughest legal challenges.
Call us today at (805) 277-2011 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. One call could make the difference between jail time and freedom.
This page was written by the My Rights Law Editorial Team and reviewed for legal accuracy by Bobby Shamuilian.
Attorney Shamuilian is the founder and managing partner 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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