Theft Crimes

Glendale Theft Crime Attorneys

Theft crimes involve the unauthorized taking of property from others with the intent to deprive the property owners permanently. Theft crime convictions can have long-lasting effects on your life. Beyond the immediate penalties, such as fines and imprisonment, a conviction can damage your reputation.

These are crimes associated with dishonesty and deception. As a result, a theft crime on your record can result in losing your professional license, job, or career. It may make securing future employment, obtaining housing, or pursuing higher education challenging. This significantly raises the stakes and calls for a criminal defense lawyer who knows how to put a vigorous and aggressive legal strategy to work for you.

At Weiss and Stepanian LLP, our team is comprised of seasoned and dedicated defenders with trial experience who have represented countless Californians in the local courts. We understand the stakes and the need to create thorough, efficient, and effective defense plans customized to your situation.

We offer free initial consultations. Contact us online or at (818) 619-3337 to make an appointment with a Glendale theft crime lawyer about your case. Our firm also represents clients in Burbank, Pasadena, and North Hollywood.

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California Theft Crimes & Penalties

California has enacted many types of theft crimes, including but not limited to:

Petty theft: Involves property theft valued at $950 or less. Penalties can include fines up to $1,000 and imprisonment for up to six months.
Grand theft: Pertains to property theft exceeding $950 in value. This crime can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, with penalties ranging from one year in county jail to three years in state prison based on the case’s specifics.
Burglary: Defined as entering a structure intending to commit theft or any felony. Depending on the circumstances and whether it’s classified as first- or second-degree, penalties can range from one year in county jail to six years in state prison.
Robbery: Involves directly taking property from another person, using force or threats. Robbery is always considered a felony with severe penalties, including up to nine years in state prison.
Auto theft: Depending on the method (e.g., carjacking vs. grand theft auto), penalties for vehicle theft can vary significantly, from fines and probation to several years in state prison.
Receiving stolen property: Constitutes knowingly possessing, buying, selling, or concealing stolen property. Classification of this offense as a misdemeanor or felony depends on the property’s value and the defendant’s criminal history. Penalties can include fines, probation, up to one year in county jail for misdemeanors, or between 16 months to three years in state prison for felonies.
Embezzlement: Involves the wrongful taking or misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to one’s care but owned by another. It can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the amount embezzled and other case factors. Penalties include restitution, fines, and imprisonment, ranging from one year in county jail for a misdemeanor to up to five years in state prison for felony charges.

What is the Difference Between Petty Theft and Grand Theft?

Understanding the distinction between petty theft and grand theft is essential, as the legal consequences and the severity of the charges differ significantly. Both terms refer to the unlawful taking of someone else's property, but the key difference lies in the value of the stolen items.

Petty theft, also known as petit theft in some jurisdictions, involves the unlawful taking of property or money with a relatively low value, typically below a specific monetary threshold set by state law. This threshold can vary, but it is generally around $500 or $1,000. Petty theft is usually classified as a misdemeanor, which is considered a less severe offense. Penalties for petty theft can include fines, community service, probation, and short-term imprisonment, often not exceeding one year.

In contrast, grand theft involves the unlawful taking of property or money that exceeds the state's set monetary threshold for petty theft. The value required for an offense to be considered grand theft varies by state but often starts at $1,000 or $1,500. Grand theft is usually classified as a felony, a more serious category of crime. Penalties for grand theft are more severe and can include substantial fines, longer prison sentences, probation, and a permanent criminal record. The specific punishments depend on various factors, such as the value of the stolen property, the offender’s criminal history, and the circumstances surrounding the theft.

Additionally, some jurisdictions consider the type of property stolen in determining the severity of the theft. For example, theft of a firearm, vehicle, or certain types of livestock might automatically be classified as grand theft, regardless of the item's value.

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Why You Need an Experienced & Aggressive Criminal Defense Lawyer

Navigating the complexities of the legal system requires experience, skill, and an in-depth understanding of criminal law. A seasoned lawyer can offer sound legal advice and strategize the best defense based on the specifics of your case. They can negotiate with prosecutors to possibly reduce charges or penalties or take your case to trial when needed. They can protect your rights and build a strategic defense designed for optimal outcomes.

At Weiss and Stepanian LLP, our dedicated team of criminal defense attorneys can provide an aggressive defense for those accused of theft crimes. We thoroughly investigate each case, gathering evidence and identifying flaws in the prosecution’s arguments.

Our firm is committed to advocating for your rights and securing positive results, whether a case dismissal, reduced charges, or a favorable plea agreement. By leveraging our extensive experience and detailed understanding of the criminal justice system, we stand ready to defend your freedom and reputation.

Reach us online or at (818) 619-3337 for legal help from a Glendale theft crime lawyer today.

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Your future deserves aggressive representation. Reach out to us today to discover how our proactive advocacy can make a difference in your legal proceedings.

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