Theft charges can be daunting and carry significant consequences. Securing the right legal help for theft charges is crucial to protect your rights and future. Our experienced team at DEFENDCA is dedicated to providing comprehensive and strategic defense to individuals facing theft allegations. We understand the intricacies of theft laws and are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients.
Theft, defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property, encompasses a variety of offenses, each with its own legal implications. Whether you are facing charges for petty theft, grand theft, or more serious offenses like robbery or burglary, having a knowledgeable theft defense attorney on your side can significantly impact the result of your case. With the complexities involved in theft cases, from proving intent to challenging evidence, our firm is prepared to offer you the robust defense you need.
At DEFENDCA, our experienced theft defense attorney has a proven track record of successfully defending clients against various theft charges. From petty theft to grand theft, our attorney is well-versed in handling all aspects of theft-related cases. We meticulously investigate the circumstances of each case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a robust defense strategy tailored to your unique situation.
Petty theft, as defined under Penal Code 484, involves the theft of property valued at less than $950. This is typically charged as a misdemeanor but can escalate to a felony with prior convictions. Examples include shoplifting and minor thefts, such as taking a bicycle or small electronics. Even though petty theft is considered a lesser offense, a conviction can still lead to significant consequences, including fines, community service, and potential jail time. Moreover, having a theft conviction on your record can impact future employment opportunities and professional licenses.
Grand theft, under Penal Code 487, is more severe, involving property valued at over $950. This offense can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history. Grand theft includes high-value property theft, such as stealing vehicles, expensive jewelry, or large sums of money. The penalties for grand theft are more severe, often involving longer jail sentences and larger fines. Our theft defense attorney is skilled in crafting defense strategies that challenge the prosecution’s case, aiming to reduce the charges or secure a not guilty verdict.
Choosing the right theft defense lawyer can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some reasons to choose our firm:
Our firm offers comprehensive legal help for theft charges, covering a wide range of theft-related offenses:
Petty theft involves the theft of property valued less than $950. It is often charged as a misdemeanor but can escalate to a felony if the defendant has prior convictions. Shoplifting is a common form of petty theft, and while it might seem minor, it can carry serious consequences, especially for repeat offenders. Our firm works to minimize these consequences, seeking alternatives like civil compromise or diversion programs where appropriate.
Grand theft is a more serious offense involving property valued over $950. This can include high-value items like vehicles, electronics, or significant sums of money. Grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, with the latter carrying more severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. Our theft defense attorney will explore all possible defenses, from challenging the valuation of the stolen property to questioning the prosecution’s evidence of intent.
This charge applies to individuals with prior theft convictions. It can escalate a misdemeanor petty theft charge to a felony, leading to harsher penalties. The law recognizes the repetitive nature of the crime and seeks to impose stricter punishment on repeat offenders. Our defense strategy includes highlighting any mitigating factors and seeking reduced sentences where possible.
Theft of a firearm, regardless of its value, is always considered a felony. This reflects the serious nature of firearm theft and its potential consequences. Convictions for grand theft firearm carry severe penalties, including significant prison time. Our legal team works diligently to challenge the charges and seek the best possible outcome for our clients.
Theft of an automobile is charged as a felony, irrespective of the vehicle’s value. Grand theft auto cases often involve additional charges, such as burglary or robbery, depending on the circumstances. Our experienced theft defense attorney has a deep understanding of these cases and works to provide a comprehensive defense.
Robbery involves taking property from someone using force or fear. It is considered a strike under California’s Three Strikes Law, leading to severe penalties, including long prison sentences. Robbery cases are complex, requiring proof of intent, use of force, and lack of consent. Our firm meticulously examines each element of the case to build a strong defense, challenging the prosecution’s evidence at every turn.
Burglary is defined as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony. This can be residential (first degree) or commercial (second degree). Residential burglary is always a felony and carries harsher penalties than commercial burglary, which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Our defense strategies focus on challenging the intent and the circumstances of entry to mitigate the charges.
Breaking into a vehicle to steal it or its contents is classified as auto burglary. This offense can lead to additional charges, such as theft or possession of stolen property. Our legal team investigates the circumstances surrounding the alleged auto burglary to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and seek reduced charges or dismissal.
Carjacking, the act of taking a vehicle from someone using force or fear, carries severe penalties, including up to nine years in prison. Additional time can be added if a weapon was used. Carjacking cases require a detailed examination of the evidence and circumstances to provide a robust defense.
Embezzlement involves the misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to you. This white-collar crime can result in severe penalties, including prison time and hefty fines. Our defense strategies include scrutinizing financial records and challenging the evidence of misappropriation.
Using force or fear to obtain money or property from another person is classified as extortion. Unlike robbery, extortion can involve threats of future harm and requires consent from the victim under duress. Our firm explores all aspects of the case to build a strong defense, focusing on disproving the elements of coercion and intent.
Receiving or purchasing property you know to be stolen can lead to significant legal trouble. This offense requires proof that you knew or should have known the property was stolen. Our defense attorney will challenge the evidence of knowledge and intent, seeking to reduce or dismiss the charges.
Our dedicated team is here to provide the legal support and defense you need. If you are facing theft charges in San Mateo, Santa Clara, Alameda, or San Francisco counties, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our experienced theft defense attorney. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and work towards securing your freedom and future.
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