Individuals who are charged with theft crimes in Downey, CA can face serious repercussions. The court system in California severely punishes acts of theft. You could face incredibly high fines and time in jail or prison if you are convicted of a theft crime.
The courts in Downey are designed to secure convictions for theft crimes. Trying to handle charges on your own can end in disaster. Make sure you have the legal help you need from a professional criminal defense lawyer in Downey before it’s too late.
What to Expect from a Theft Crimes Charge in Downey
You can be charged with a theft crime in Downey if you are accused of stealing goods or money from another person. There are several common charges used to prosecute theft crime accusations:
- Petty Theft
- Grand Theft
- Robbery
- Unlawful Taking of a Vehicle
- Grand Theft Auto
Theft crimes are generally charged as misdemeanors or felonies by the court system. A theft crime conviction can leave you with severe fines and a prison or jail sentence. You can improve your chances for success in court by working with the skilled theft crime lawyers of the Simmrin Law Group.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving Downey, call (310) 896-2723
Charges of Petty Theft, Grand Theft, and Robbery
Petty Theft
You can be charged with petty theft if you steal something worth no more than $950. There are exceptions to this rule that allow the court to charge you with a more serious crime even if you steal something worth a small amount.
Petty theft is the least severe theft crime in Downey. The court can charge you with a misdemeanor for petty theft and you can be fined $1,000 and sent to jail for 6 months if you are convicted.
Grand Theft
Individuals who steal over $950 can be always be charged with grand theft. You could also face grand theft charges if you are accused of stealing $250 worth of:
- Domestic fowls
- Fish, shellfish, and other aquacultural products
- Avocados, olives, artichokes, and other fruits or vegetables
The theft of horses, firearms, and motor vehicles can also be charged as grand theft. Grand theft can be treated as either a misdemeanor or a felony in Downey. Grand theft convictions can lead to 3 years of prison time.
Robbery
Downey defines robbery as an act of theft carried out with force or the use of fear. You can be charged with robbery if you physically harm or threaten someone when taking their money. There are two charges used to address robbery in the court system.
You can face first degree robbery charges if the theft occurs:
- Near an ATM after someone uses it
- In an inhabited structure
- While someone is driving or riding in a motor vehicle
First degree robbery is considered more severe than second degree robbery. The court system uses second degree robbery to cover all acts that don’t meet the definition of first degree robbery. Both first and second degree robbery are felonies in Downey.
Any theft or robbery charge can lead to serious repercussions if you lose your case. You could be sent to prison for years and left with fines that are impossible to pay. Getting help right away from a theft crimes lawyer in Downey can improve your chances in court.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Motor Vehicle Theft in Downey
The theft of a motor vehicle is handled with unique charges in California. You could face two charges if you steal someone else’s car, truck, van, or motorcycle.
Unlawful Taking of a Vehicle
Individuals who steal another person’s motor vehicle while intending to return it may be charged with unlawful taking of a vehicle. This act is also called “joyriding.” In many cases, minors who have never stolen a car before will be charged with joyriding instead of grand theft auto.
Grand Theft Auto
Grand theft auto occurs if you steal a motor vehicle and intend to keep it. The court system in Downey can charge grand theft auto as a misdemeanor or a felony. You could be fined $10,000 and sent to jail for 3 years if you are convicted of grand theft auto. Your jail time can increase depending on how expensive the stolen car was.
Any theft of a motor vehicle in Downey can thrown your life off course. Dealing with experienced prosecutors can be incredibly challenging. A highly-trained theft crimes lawyer can support you while you face this legal battle.
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Get the Help You Need with a Downey Theft Crimes Lawyer
Fighting a theft crimes charge takes skill and experience. The Simmrin Law Group has built a reputation for helping our clients and winning cases. We understand what you’re going through. You can get immediate advice and help by contacting us for a FREE consultation. Let us get started on your defense today by filling out the form on the right or calling (310) 997-4688.
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