If you’ve been accused of a theft crime, you might feel embarrassed or unsure about what happens next. You could be worried about your job, your family, and your freedom. The good news is you don’t have to go through this alone.
A Mission Viejo criminal defense lawyer from Simmrin Law Group is ready to fight for you. We have helped thousands of clients for more than 20 years. Our team brings decades of experience to every case.
We’ve taken on over 100 jury trials—including some of the most serious charges—and we’re not afraid to go to court. If you need a Mission Viejo theft crimes lawyer, we’ll work to protect your future from the very first day. Call us today for a free consultation. We’re available 24/7.
When Should You Hire a Defense Lawyer in Mission Viejo?
You should call a lawyer as soon as you know you are under investigation, have been arrested, or are facing an arrest. The earlier you have a lawyer, the more they can do to help.
At Simmrin Law Group, we will start building your defense from day one. We collect:
- Police reports
- Video evidence
- Texts and messages
- Witness statements
- Anything that can help your case
Don’t wait until your court date to get help. By then, the damage may already be done.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving Mission Viejo, call (310) 896-2723
Our Theft Crimes Attorney in Mission Viejo Will Stand by You
When you hire our team, you can expect us to:
- Listen to your side: We treat you with respect and take the time to understand your story.
- Investigate the case: We gather all the facts, records, and video footage. We dig deep to find the truth.
- Challenge the evidence: We know how to spot weak evidence, bad police work, or violations of your rights.
- Handle the paperwork: We take care of court filings, deadlines, and all the legal steps.
- Fight in court: If needed, we’re ready to defend you in front of a judge and jury.
- Look for better outcomes: We will work to get charges dropped, reduced, or dismissed. We’ll also push for alternatives like diversion programs when possible.
Whether your case is in a local court or federal court, we’re ready to fight for your future.
Mission Viejo Theft Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What Is a Theft Crime in California?
In California, theft means taking someone else’s property without permission and intending to keep it. That might sound simple, but there are many types of theft crimes. Some are minor while others are serious felonies.
A few common examples of these offenses are:
- Petty theft: Taking something worth $950 or less (like shoplifting a shirt or small item)
- Grand theft: Stealing something worth more than $950 (like a smartphone, jewelry, or electronics)
- Burglary: Entering a building with the intent to commit theft or a felony
- Robbery: Taking property from someone using force or threats
- Identity theft: Using someone’s personal information without permission
- Embezzlement: Stealing money or property entrusted to you (like a worker stealing from their job)
- Auto theft: Stealing a vehicle
Each of these crimes comes with different punishments. You could face jail or prison time, large fines, probation, or a mark on your record that follows you for years. That’s why it is important to take these charges seriously and talk to a lawyer right away.
We’re ready to help. Call us today for a free consultation.
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How Long Do You Have to Deal With Charges in California?
Criminal charges don’t go away on their own, but it’s also important to understand time limits. Under California Penal Code § 801, most felony theft crimes must be charged within three years. For misdemeanors like petty theft, the time limit is one year under California Penal Code § 802.
That means the state has a limited window to file charges. But once it does, there are no more deadlines—your case will move forward quickly. If you’ve been charged, don’t wait. Our theft charges lawyer in Mission Viejo will need time to build a strong defense.
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Can Theft Charges Be Dropped or Reduced?
Yes. In many cases, theft charges can be reduced or dropped completely. We will look at things like:
- Did you intend to steal?
- Was it a misunderstanding or a mistake?
- Were your rights violated during the arrest?
- Is there enough evidence to prove the charge?
If you are a first-time offender, you might qualify for a pre-trial diversion program or probation instead of jail. The sooner you talk to a lawyer, the more options you’ll have.
Common Defenses Against Theft-Related Offenses
Not every theft charge leads to a conviction. Legal defenses may apply to your case, especially if the facts aren’t as clear as the prosecution claims. At Simmrin Law Group, we take the time to understand your situation and build the strongest defense possible.
Some of the most common defenses to theft-related criminal charges include:
- Lack of intent: To convict you of theft, the prosecution must prove you meant to steal. If it was an honest mistake—like picking up the wrong bag or forgetting to pay—it may not count as theft.
- Claim of ownership: If you believed the item was yours or had a right to it, that belief could be used as a defense. Even if you were mistaken, your intent matters.
- Consent: If the property owner gave you permission to take or borrow the item, even informally, that could be a valid defense.
- False accusation: Sometimes people are wrongly accused. Whether due to misunderstanding, misidentification, or even someone trying to shift blame, we work to uncover the truth and prove your innocence.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution must prove every part of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence is weak or unclear, we can challenge it and move to have your charges reduced or dropped.
No two cases are the same. We will look closely at the facts and fight for the outcome you deserve.
What to Do if You’re Accused of Theft in Mission Viejo, CA
Being accused of theft can be overwhelming, but your actions right after the accusation matter. Here’s what to do to protect yourself:
- Stay calm: Don’t panic, argue, or try to talk your way out of it. Anything you say could be used against you.
- Don’t talk to the police: You have the right to remain silent. Wait until our attorney handling theft crimes in Mission Viejo is present before answering any questions.
- Call a lawyer immediately: The sooner you contact us, the faster we can step in to protect your rights and start building your defense.
- Gather and protect evidence: Save any texts, emails, receipts, or videos that could help show your side of the story.
- Take the court seriously: Show up on time for every hearing. We will guide you through what to expect and often appear on your behalf when allowed.
Following these steps can make a big difference in how your case plays out. Let us help you take the right steps from the start.
Talk to Us for Help From a Mission Viejo Theft Crimes Lawyer
A theft charge doesn’t have to define your life. With the right legal team, you can fight back and move forward. Whether you’re facing shoplifting, burglary, or a serious felony theft charge, we’re here to help.
We know how California theft laws work and how to use them to your advantage. From police records to videos, we get every document, every fact, and every angle when we work on cases.
There’s no judgment here, just legal help. Our theft crimes lawyer in Mission Viejo believes in second chances and protecting your future. Call Simmrin Law Group now for a free consultation. Let us put our decades of experience to work for you.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form