Theft Lawyer California We'll Stand With You
What Constitutes Theft?
California Penal Code [CPC] §484(a)[1] characterizes theft as stealing the personal property of another party or fraudulently appropriating another party's property. Offenses can range in severity from a low-level misdemeanor to a felony depending on the value of the stolen property. This means our clients could be facing fallout ranging from a small fine to multiple years in prison.
Contact a Theft Lawyer Today
Our team is led by Samera I. Habib, a dedicated and compassionate attorney.
If you are in need of an attorney with a background in criminal defense and theft charges, our team can provide you with compassionate yet aggressive legal representation. Whether you have been charged with theft or another criminal matter, no case is too small for Law House PC.
Our team is made up of talented California theft lawyers dedicated to representing your best interests and finding justice for our clients. Schedule a consultation to discuss your case with one of our dynamic attorneys. Contact us online or call:
What to Do If You've Been Charged with Theft
We will expose weaknesses in the prosecution's argument in order to develop the very best defense.
Potential Penalties
The severity of the crime depends on the value of the item(s) stolen. Depending on this factor and others, such as prior convictions, you can be charged with a misdemeanor or felony. Here is a general overview of the penalties that apply to theft cases:
Misdemeanor
Penal Code 488 classified the theft of $950 or less of property or services a misdemeanor. It is punishable by a maximum fine of $1,000 and up to six months in county jail.
Felony
When the value of the stolen goods exceeds $950, the state of California classifies the crime as a felony, punishable by longer jail sentences and higher fines.
Establishing a Defense
Law House's goal is to establish a solid defense for our clients charged with a crime. There are many reasons a person may be accused and innocent of a charge. Our California theft lawyers will examine your theft case and prepare a defense in situations of:
Right to Property
A valid defense for a theft crime is a good faith belief that you had a lawful claim to the property you took.
Mistaken Intent
The prosecution must show that you had the intent to steal in order to be convicted of the crime. For example, if a defendant simply forgets to pay for an item or has the intention of returning the property, this is a valid defense.
Lack of Pretense
This can be a successful defense for clients who have no reason for wanting to steal the property they are accused of taking.
Impaired Mental State
It is possible to successfully defend theft charges if you were intoxicated or under duress at the time the alleged theft crime occurred.
Entrapment
This defense applies if you are lured into committing a theft crime by authorities with the intent to prosecute.
