Theft crime charges in California carry serious consequences that can affect your freedom, finances, and future. Whether you’re facing petty theft, grand theft, shoplifting, or more serious charges like robbery or burglary, the prosecution will aggressively pursue a conviction. With your freedom at stake, you need a skilled Los Angeles theft crimes defense attorney who understands California law and knows how to build an effective defense strategy.
Facing Theft Charges? Don’t Wait.
Criminal charges won’t go away on their own. Get experienced legal representation immediately.
Understanding Theft Crimes in California
Under California law, theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This seemingly simple definition encompasses a wide range of criminal offenses, each with distinct elements and potential penalties.
California Penal Code defines various theft crimes with specific elements and penalties
The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to steal. Accidental possession of another person’s property or mistaken belief that you had a right to the property are not theft under California law. This critical element of intent creates important opportunities for your defense.
Common Theft Crimes in California
Petty Theft
Petty theft involves stealing property valued at $950 or less. While classified as a misdemeanor, petty theft still carries penalties including up to six months in county jail, fines up to $1,000, and potential probation. Even a misdemeanor theft conviction can severely impact your employment prospects and reputation.
Grand Theft
When the value of stolen property exceeds $950, the charge escalates to grand theft. This “wobbler” offense can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the circumstances, your criminal history, and the prosecutor’s discretion. Felony grand theft can result in 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in state prison.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is defined as entering a commercial establishment during regular business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less. Prior to Proposition 47, many shoplifting cases were charged as burglary, but now they’re typically prosecuted as misdemeanors unless you have certain prior convictions.
Robbery
Robbery involves taking personal property from someone’s person or immediate presence against their will, using force or fear. Unlike other theft crimes, robbery is always a felony and is considered a violent crime. Penalties range from 2 to 9 years in state prison, with enhanced sentences if weapons were used.
Burglary
Burglary occurs when someone enters a structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Residential burglary (first-degree) carries up to 6 years in prison, while commercial burglary (second-degree) can result in up to 3 years. The prosecution doesn’t need to prove you actually stole anything—only that you entered with the intent to do so.
Grand Theft Auto
Taking another person’s vehicle without permission constitutes grand theft auto. This serious offense can be charged as a felony with penalties including up to 3 years in state prison, substantial fines, and a strike under California’s Three Strikes law.
Receiving Stolen Property
You can be charged with receiving stolen property if you knowingly buy, receive, conceal, or sell property that was obtained through theft. This offense can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, with penalties similar to those for theft itself.
Don’t Face Theft Charges Alone
Our experienced criminal defense attorneys will fight to protect your rights and freedom.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in California
The consequences of a theft conviction extend far beyond the immediate legal penalties. Understanding what you’re facing is essential to appreciating the importance of a strong defense.
| Offense | Classification | Potential Jail/Prison Time | Maximum Fine |
| Petty Theft | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months in county jail | $1,000 |
| Grand Theft | Wobbler | Up to 3 years in state prison | $10,000 |
| Shoplifting | Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months in county jail | $1,000 |
| Robbery | Felony | 2-9 years in state prison | $10,000 |
| Burglary (1st degree) | Felony | 2-6 years in state prison | $10,000 |
| Burglary (2nd degree) | Wobbler | Up to 3 years in state prison | $10,000 |
| Grand Theft Auto | Wobbler | Up to 3 years in state prison | $10,000 |
| Receiving Stolen Property | Wobbler | Up to 3 years in state prison | $10,000 |
Additional Consequences of Theft Convictions
- Permanent criminal record affecting employment opportunities
- Loss of professional licenses
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
- Difficulty securing housing
- Restitution payments to victims
- Probation or parole restrictions
- Loss of firearm rights (for felony convictions)
- Social stigma and damaged reputation
Effective Defenses Against Theft Charges
A skilled theft crimes defense attorney can employ numerous strategies to fight your charges. The right approach depends on the specific circumstances of your case, the evidence against you, and your prior criminal history.
Common Defense Strategies
Lack of Intent
Theft requires intent to permanently deprive the owner of property. If you believed the property was yours, borrowed it with intent to return it, or took it by mistake, this essential element is missing.
Claim of Right
If you had a good faith belief that you had a right to the property, even if that belief was mistaken, it may constitute a valid defense against theft charges.
Consent
If the property owner consented to your taking or using their property, no theft occurred. Miscommunications about permission can lead to wrongful charges.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove every element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. Challenging weak evidence, unreliable witnesses, or improper police procedures can be effective.
Mistaken Identity
Security footage, eyewitness identifications, and circumstantial evidence can be unreliable. We can challenge incorrect identifications and establish alibis.
Constitutional Violations
Evidence obtained through illegal searches, seizures, or interrogations may be excluded from court, potentially resulting in dismissed charges.
Your Future Is Worth Fighting For
Our defense attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of theft cases throughout Los Angeles County.
Theft Crime Cases in Los Angeles County Courts
Theft crimes in Los Angeles are prosecuted in various courthouses throughout the county, depending on where the alleged offense occurred. Our attorneys have extensive experience in all Los Angeles County criminal courts, including:
- Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center (Downtown LA)
- Airport Courthouse
- Van Nuys Courthouse
- San Fernando Courthouse
- Compton Courthouse
- Pasadena Courthouse
Los Angeles prosecutors take theft crimes seriously. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has specialized units dedicated to prosecuting various types of theft, including organized retail theft rings, identity theft operations, and high-value property crimes.
Our defense attorneys understand the tendencies of local prosecutors and judges, allowing us to anticipate their strategies and build more effective defenses for our clients. This local knowledge can make a critical difference in the outcome of your case.
The Legal Process for Theft Crimes in California
Understanding what to expect during the legal process can help reduce anxiety and allow you to make better decisions about your case. Here’s what typically happens after a theft arrest in California:
- Arrest and Booking: After arrest, you’ll be booked, photographed, fingerprinted, and potentially held in custody until bail is set or you’re released on your own recognizance.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance where charges are formally presented, and you enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
- Bail Hearing: The court determines whether to set bail and in what amount, based on factors including the severity of charges and your ties to the community.
- Pretrial Proceedings: This phase includes discovery (exchange of evidence), filing of motions, and plea negotiations with the prosecutor.
- Preliminary Hearing: For felony charges, a hearing where the prosecution must show sufficient evidence to justify proceeding to trial.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, a jury (or sometimes a judge) will determine your guilt or innocence based on the evidence presented.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court will impose penalties that may include jail or prison time, fines, probation, and restitution.
Having an experienced theft crimes defense attorney by your side throughout this process is crucial. Your attorney can identify opportunities for case dismissal, negotiate favorable plea agreements, and ensure your rights are protected at every stage.
Why Choose Our Los Angeles Theft Crimes Defense Attorneys
When your freedom, finances, and future are at stake, you need a defense attorney with specific experience handling theft crimes in Los Angeles County. Our criminal defense team offers:
- Specialized Experience: We focus on criminal defense, with particular expertise in theft and property crimes.
- Proven Results: Our attorneys have successfully defended hundreds of clients against theft charges, from simple shoplifting to complex fraud cases.
- Local Knowledge: We understand the tendencies of Los Angeles prosecutors and judges, allowing us to build more effective defense strategies.
- Aggressive Advocacy: We fight relentlessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
- Personalized Attention: We treat each client with respect and develop customized defense strategies based on your unique circumstances.
- 24/7 Availability: Criminal charges don’t follow business hours, and neither do we. We’re available when you need us most.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been arrested for or charged with a theft crime in Los Angeles, time is critical. The sooner you secure legal representation, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Early intervention allows your attorney to:
- Preserve valuable evidence before it disappears
- Interview witnesses while memories are fresh
- Prevent you from making statements that could harm your case
- Negotiate with prosecutors before formal charges are filed
- Begin building your defense strategy immediately
Don’t wait until your situation worsens. Contact our experienced Los Angeles theft crimes defense attorneys today for a confidential consultation about your case.
Get Experienced Defense for Your Theft Case
Our criminal defense attorneys are standing by to review your case and protect your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crimes
Can a theft charge be expunged from my record?
Yes, in many cases theft convictions can be expunged from your record after you’ve completed your sentence and probation. California law allows for expungement of both misdemeanor and certain felony convictions. An expungement doesn’t completely erase the conviction but changes it to a dismissal, which can help with employment opportunities.
What’s the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary?
Theft involves taking someone’s property without their consent with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Robbery is theft accomplished by force or fear. Burglary is entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony inside. Each carries different penalties, with robbery and burglary typically treated more severely than simple theft.
Can I be charged with theft if I accidentally took someone’s property?
No. Theft requires intent to steal. If you accidentally took someone’s property believing it was yours, or if you intended to return it, you lack the required mental state for theft. However, you may need to prove your lack of intent, which is where an experienced defense attorney becomes essential.
Will I go to jail for a first-time shoplifting offense?
First-time shoplifting offenders often avoid jail time, especially for low-value items. Alternatives may include diversion programs, community service, or probation. However, this depends on the specific circumstances, the value of items taken, and how your case is handled. Professional legal representation significantly increases your chances of avoiding incarceration.
How can a defense attorney help with my theft case?
A skilled defense attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal, represent you in court proceedings, develop effective defense strategies, and work to minimize penalties. They understand the nuances of theft laws and can identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case that you might not recognize.
Contact Our Los Angeles Theft Crimes Defense Attorneys
Theft charges in California carry serious consequences that can affect every aspect of your life. With your freedom, finances, and future at stake, you need experienced legal representation from attorneys who understand California theft laws and know how to build effective defense strategies.
Our Los Angeles criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended clients against all types of theft charges, from shoplifting to grand theft auto. We provide aggressive, strategic defense focused on achieving the best possible outcome for your specific situation.
Don’t face theft charges alone. Contact us today for a confidential consultation about your case.
Your Defense Starts Now
Call our experienced theft crimes defense attorneys for immediate assistance with your case.
