You are not alone if you are facing theft crime charges in Anaheim. Many individuals in your situation have gone through the court system and been left with high fines and time in prison or jail.
You can increase the odds that you’ll win your case by working with a professional theft crimes lawyer in Anaheim right away. The Simmrin Law Group understands how the court system in California works. We can take on your case and fight to get your life back on track.
Petty Theft vs. Grand Theft in Anaheim
You can be charged with petty theft if you indirectly steal less than $950. This definition may seem straightforward, but there are several major exceptions that complicate petty theft charges.
For example, you will be charged with the more severe crime of grand theft for stealing any amount of:
- Firearms
- Motor Vehicles
- Horses
You will also face grand theft charges if you steal more than $250 worth of:
- Certain Agricultural Products
- Certain Aquacultural Products
- Domestic Fowls
Petty theft is treated as a misdemeanor by the court system. Grand theft may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. The penalties for petty theft and grand theft can include:
Petty Theft
- Up to $1,000 in Fines
- Up to 6 Months in Jail
Grand Theft
- Up to 1 Year in Jail
- Up to 3 Years in Prison
Getting help right away will improve your chances for beating petty theft or grand theft charges. You can begin preparing for your courtroom battle today by reaching out to a criminal defense lawyer in Anaheim.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Anaheim, call (310) 896-2723
Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle vs. Grand Theft Auto
The court handles motor vehicle theft with two unique charges that can be difficult to tell apart:
- Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle. Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle occurs if you take another individual’s motor vehicle without planning to keep it permanently. This is also called joyriding.
- Grand Theft Auto. You commit grand theft auto by stealing a motor vehicle without intending to return it to its rightful owner.
Because the distinction between unlawful taking of a motor vehicle and grand theft auto comes down to intent, it can be tricky to determine which charge applies. Minors who are facing a first-offense are sometimes given a joyriding charge, but prosecutors do not always follow this rule.
Regardless of which charge you are facing, you can end up left with severe consequences if you are convicted, including:
Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle
- Up to $5,000 in Fines
- Up to 1 Year in Jail
- Up to 3 Years in Prison
Grand Theft Auto
- Up to $10,00 in Fines
- Up to 5 Years in Jail
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
First Degree Robbery vs. Second Degree Robbery
You can be charged with robbery if you take someone else’s property from them with the use of fear or force. There are two different levels of severity for robbery charges, but they can be complicated to understand.
First degree robbery is the more severe criminal act. The court uses first degree robbery charges to prosecute individuals who:
- Rob Others by an ATM after the ATM Was Used
- Rob Individuals in Inhabited Structures
- Rob People Driving or Riding in Motor Vehicles
Second degree robbery covers all other instances of robbery. A conviction for robbery can lead to the following life-changing repercussions:
First Degree Robbery
- Up to $10,000 in Fines
- Up to 9 Years in Prison
Second Degree Robbery
- Up to $10,000 in Fines
- Up to 5 Years in Prison
Additionally, you could receive extra time in prison if you:
- Caused Great Bodily Injury
- Threatened Multiple People
- Used a Firearm
Dealing with robbery charges on your own can lead to disaster. A theft crimes lawyer that understands the legal system in Anaheim can protect you. Make sure you’re getting the help you need before its too late to fight back.
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An Anaheim Theft Crimes Lawyer To Defend You
A theft crimes charge doesn’t have to ruin your life. Here at the Simmrin Law Group, we believe in supporting our clients throughout the entirety of their legal battles. Our theft crimes lawyers in Anaheim will fight tireless to build your defense. You can start getting advice about your situation right now with our FREE consultation.
You can fill out our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723 to learn more about your legal options.
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