You get arrested for burglary, grand theft, shoplifting, or another theft crime. At this point, things look bleak, and you could be convicted of a criminal offense. Thankfully, you have access to legal help in the form of an Aliso Viejo theft crimes lawyer.
At Simmrin Law Group, we are committed to treating our clients like family. Our team has served thousands of clients, including those who have been charged with various theft crimes. In the aftermath of your arrest, we encourage you to discuss your case with an Aliso Viejo criminal defense lawyer from our team.
Our attorney may be able to help you fight back against your theft charge before it results in a criminal conviction. To find out more, request a free legal consultation.
Why Hire a Lawyer if You Have Been Charged with a Theft Crime in Aliso Viejo, CA?
The things you do after you have been charged with a theft crime have the potential to dictate your future. Partner with an Aliso Viejo theft crimes attorney, as they can guide you through your legal proceedings. Some of the ways that your lawyer may help you with your case include:
- Teaching you about the California Penal Code and how it may apply to your case
- Managing your case communications to help protect you against self-incrimination
- Performing an investigation to try to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and start the process of preparing your legal defense
- Negotiating with the prosecution in the hopes of getting you a plea bargain that may allow the charge against you to be lowered or dismissed
Remember, you do not have to face your theft charge alone. Simmrin Law Group offers legal services and support to those who have been charged with theft crimes. We can evaluate your case and discuss your legal options with you. Contact us today to get started.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving Aliso Viejo, call (310) 896-2723
What Will Happen if You are Convicted of a Theft Crime?
In California, the penalties that you will receive if you are convicted of a theft offense will depend on the value of the property and other factors. Your theft crimes lawyer serving Aliso Viejo can provide insights into how a criminal conviction can impact you now and in the future. They may also detail the penalties often associated with theft crimes, which can include:
- A jail or prison sentence
- Fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Having to pay restitution to anyone who may have been impacted by the offense
Certain theft crimes are treated as wobblers, which means they can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony based on things like the prosecutor’s discretion and the defendant’s criminal history.
Aliso Viejo Theft Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Aliso Viejo Theft Crimes Defenses to Consider
Your theft crimes attorney serving Aliso Viejo can evaluate the facts of your case as they try to prepare a legal defense that explains to the court why you should not be convicted. Below are some of the legal defenses that your lawyer may utilize to dispute the prosecution:
- Lack of specific intent: Your lawyer may describe how you didn’t intend to permanently steal someone else’s property. They may provide the court with information about how you may have taken something by accident or planned to return it to its original owner, which could negate the intent of theft.
- Claim of right: You may have taken property because you genuinely believed that it belonged to you or had a rightful claim to it. In such an instance, your lawyer may present evidence to support your claim of right.
- Consent: Someone tells you that you are allowed to take or use their property, but you are later charged with theft. If this occurs, your lawyer may share evidence with the court that illustrates that you had the owner’s consent.
- Mistaken identity: Someone alleges that you committed a theft crime, but this accuser may have inadvertently mistaken you for another person. Your lawyer may provide your alibi to the court, which may show that you were not present when the crime may have taken place.
- Entrapment: The police induce you to commit a theft crime that you otherwise wouldn’t have done. Ultimately, entrapment is illegal, and your lawyer may be able to prove that law enforcement coerced you into engaging in criminal activity.
In your case, your criminal defense attorney may seek a plea bargain on your behalf. By agreeing to a plea deal, you could accept lesser penalties than those you could receive if your case reached trial. Or, if a plea deal isn’t an option, your attorney is ready to present your case in court.
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Our Aliso Viejo Theft Crimes Lawyers Will Protect Your Rights
You may feel helpless after you are arrested for a theft crime. During this difficult time, it may be beneficial to speak with Aliso Viejo theft crimes attorneys. This may be an opportunity to get legal help to contest your criminal charge.
Simmrin Law Group has decades of legal experience. Our criminal defense lawyers stand up for our clients. If you have been charged with a theft crime, we can review your case. From here, we may commit time and resources to develop a legal strategy specific to your situation.
For those who are on the lookout for legal help as they deal with the ramifications of a theft charge, we are here for you. For more information, schedule a free case evaluation.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form