Theft Crimes
Theft Attorney in Tustin & Rancho Cucamong
Experienced Legal Team Serving Orange County & the Inland Empire
Theft crimes can be serious, depending upon the value of the property stolen and the record of the defendant, and they are often prosecuted aggressively by county district attorney’s offices. At Visco & Selyem Criminal Defense, our theft crime lawyers are former prosecutors, who know how the opposition will approach your case. With thousands of cases under our belts, we have the experience and resources to fight for your best outcome. We take every theft case seriously and are determined to fight for your rights and future.
Contact us today online or at (714) 824-4473 request your free initial consultation!
Understanding Petty Theft
Petty theft, is a criminal offense that involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property or belongings with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of those items. Petty theft typically involves the theft of low-value items, and it is considered a relatively minor or misdemeanor crime in most legal systems. The specific definition and penalties for petty theft may vary by jurisdiction, but the following are some common characteristics:
- Value Threshold: Petty theft typically involves items of relatively low value. The exact value threshold that distinguishes petty theft from grand theft varies by jurisdiction but is often set at a few hundred dollars.
- Intent: To be charged with petty theft, the offender must have the intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. This means they intended to keep the stolen items or dispose of them in a way that the owner cannot recover them.
- No Force or Violence: Petty theft usually does not involve the use of force, violence, or threats against the owner. It is generally non-confrontational in nature, and the theft occurs without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
- Examples: Examples of petty theft can include shoplifting, stealing small items from a store, taking someone’s bicycle, or snatching a purse or wallet from a public place.
- Penalties: Penalties for petty theft often involve relatively mild punishments compared to more serious theft offenses. Common penalties may include fines, community service, probation, restitution to the victim, or a short jail sentence, depending on the jurisdiction and the circumstances of the theft.
It’s important to note that the specific laws and thresholds for petty theft can vary from one jurisdiction to another, and these laws may change over time. What constitutes petty theft in one place may differ from the definition in another, so it’s essential to consult local laws and legal experts for the most accurate and up-to-date information on theft offenses in a specific area.
Consequences of Petty Theft Convictions
We understand that a minor offense, such as shoplifting, should be still taken seriously because it could result in:
- Deportation
- Loss of professional licenses
- Termination from employment
- Fines
- Jail or even prison
If you are found guilty of theft in California, you face punishments that range from moderate to severe and that could have a serious impact on your life. How you are penalized depends greatly on how effective your theft crime defense attorney is. An inexperienced attorney may not know how to petition the court for the least severe penalties possible for the crime you are charged with. However, an attorney’s main goal shouldn’t be to have the least severe sentence imposed—the goal should be to have the charges against you completely cleared.
Local Theft Defense in Tustin & Rancho Cucamonga
If you’re facing theft charges in Tustin or Rancho Cucamonga, it’s important to know that the Orange County District Attorney’s Office and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office vigorously prosecute these types of crimes. As such, it is crucial to have a knowledgeable defense team on your side. At Visco & Selyem Criminal Defense, we understand the unique challenges faced by residents in these areas and are committed to providing a robust defense to protect your future.
In Tustin and Rancho Cucamonga, cities known for their vibrant community and bustling shopping centers, petty theft incidents like shoplifting can occur more frequently. Local businesses and residents alike are vigilant, and law enforcement agencies are quick to respond. We are well-versed in the local laws and the specific tactics used by prosecutors in these regions, meaning that we can effectively counter their strategies.
Experienced Guidance Aimed at Guarding Your Future
One of the common pain points for residents in these areas is the potential for a theft conviction to impact their employment and professional licenses. With major employers and industries in Orange County and the Inland Empire, a theft charge can jeopardize your career. Additionally, the threat of deportation for non-citizens adds another layer of anxiety. We can alleviate these concerns by providing a defense that aims to clear your name and protect your rights.
By choosing Visco & Selyem Criminal Defense, you are selecting a team that truly understands the intricacies of theft crimes in Tustin and Rancho Cucamonga and is dedicated to pursuing the best possible outcome for you.
Protect Your Future with Our Theft Defense Experts
If you are charged with a theft crime in Tustin, Orange County, Rancho Cucamonga, or the Inland Empire, it is important that you contact us immediately. We will work hard to increase the chances that the theft charges levied against you are dismissed entirely, so that your record remains clean. Our goal is to provide you with the best defense possible in your case, no matter what type of theft crime you have been charged with, and we will do everything we can to protect your rights, liberties, and freedoms under California law. We have the skills and resources you need to face the court system with confidence.
Call (714) 824-4473 day or night, even on weekends, to request your free initial consultation. Se habla español.
Commonly Asked Questions
What distinguishes petty theft from grand theft in California?
The main distinction between petty theft and grand theft in California lies in the value of the stolen property. Petty theft typically involves items of relatively low value, often below a set threshold which varies by jurisdiction. Grand theft, on the other hand, involves property exceeding that value threshold. The intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property is a common element in both, but the penalties for grand theft are generally more severe.
Is petty theft considered a serious crime in Orange County and the Inland Empire?
While petty theft is often viewed as a minor offense compared to more serious theft crimes, it is still taken seriously in Orange County and the Inland Empire. The legal system prosecutes theft crimes with diligence, and even a petty theft conviction can have significant repercussions on an individual’s life. It’s important to treat any theft charge with gravity and seek experienced legal counsel to navigate the potential consequences.
Schedule an
Appointment
appointment with our firm.
Experienced Attorneys
With decades of experience, you owe it to yourself to get the best defense.
