When someone takes or uses another individual’s property without their consent, they are committing a theft crime. There are many kinds of theft crimes, including petty theft, grand theft, shoplifting, burglary, and embezzlement. Understanding what theft and property crimes are and why working with an Ontario theft crimes lawyer is vitally important.
The team at Simmrin Law Group works with defendants charged with theft from beginning to end. Our commitment to protecting their rights and delivering the best possible outcome drives us.
Theft and Property Crimes
When a person takes another individual’s property without their approval and they do so to deny the owner access to their property, they are committing theft. How severe the penalty is for the theft committed depends on whether it is classified as a misdemeanor, felony, or infraction. As with any other charge, criminal history plays an important role regarding the potential ramifications of the theft. If a person has an extensive criminal background, theft or otherwise, it can work against them in a court of law.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving Ontario, call (310) 896-2723
Petty Theft
We know that theft is considered theft when someone takes another person’s property without their consent and when they do so to deny them access to that property. However, what is petty theft? What makes it petty is when the value of the property taken does not exceed $950. In California, petty theft does not apply to items taken from a commercial business during its hours of operation. Even though petty theft may resemble shoplifting, they are different.
The consequences for petty theft include up to six months in county jail, unsupervised probation, a fine of up to $1,000, community service, theft counseling, and victim restitution. Working with a theft crimes lawyer in Ontario is an excellent way to reduce the number and severity of the penalties associated with the theft committed.
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Grand Theft
Since petty theft does not exceed $950, grand theft covers everything above that amount. So, if someone took another person’s property or money and the value of that theft exceeds $950, they committed grand theft. As a result of the value of the theft being greater than petty theft, the possible penalties are more severe. The amount of property or money taken directly influences the sentencing, as does a person’s criminal history.
If the grand theft is labeled a misdemeanor, it can carry a county jail sentence of up to one year. If it is a felony, the person who committed the crime can face up to three years in a California state prison. Supervised or unsupervised probation, fines, victim restitution, and community service are just a few additional penalties a person can face.
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Shoplifting
Shoplifting is not considered to be as serious an offense as grand theft. According to California law, shoplifting is going into a commercial business during its regular operating hours to commit a theft. Similar to petty theft, the value of the theft does not exceed $950. In most cases, shoplifting is a misdemeanor for those who have not shoplifted in the past. However, if the person has a history of shoplifting, the crime can escalate to a felony.
The penalties associated with shoplifting include up to six months in county jail, unsupervised probation, a fine of up to $1,000, community service, counseling, and victim restitution. Seeking the guidance of a theft crimes attorney in Ontario is advised because they can help ensure the best possible outcome.
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Burglary
California law views any theft committed with prior intent to be burglary. There is more than one type of burglary. First-degree burglary is the type of burglary that involves breaking and entering into a residence, while second-degree burglary covers all other types of burglary. For example, if a guy breaks into another person’s house to steal items, he is committing a first-degree burglary. If the same guy smashes in the driver-window of a car on the street to steal an iPhone in a cup holder, this would be considered second-degree burglary. In both cases, it does not matter if the property’s lawful owner is present for the burglary.
Sentencing for burglary depends on a variety of factors. Jail time can be up to one year, with the potential for up to six years in a California state prison. Other penalties include supervised or unsupervised probation, fines, and community service, just to name a few.
Embezzlement
When a person is entrusted with money by their employer, and they steal or misappropriate those funds, they are committing embezzlement. For example, let’s say that Ted is the Chief Financial Officer of a technology company. He’s in charge of the money the company earns and the money it spends on expenses. He is embezzling if he chooses to take a little (or a lot) of that money and put it in an account only he can access.
Those who are found guilty of embezzling can be charged with a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the amount stolen and the person’s criminal history. County jail time can range from six months to one year, with the potential for up to three years in a California state prison. Among the potential penalties are supervised or unsupervised probation, fines, community service, and counseling.
Other Types of Theft
There are other types of theft beyond the ones discussed here, including identity theft, receiving stolen property, credit card fraud, and forgery, among others. Knowing that there are so many types of theft to consider and the penalties associated with each one, working with an Ontario theft crimes attorney is essential.
Contact Simmrin Law Group for an Ontario Theft Crimes Lawyer
Simmrin Law Group helps those accused of theft crimes in California by connecting them with an Ontario theft crimes lawyer to address all their needs. Our talent, knowledge, and experience make us leaders in the legal industry. With thousands of wins and more than 100 jury trials under our belt, our team is dedicated to serving those we represent. Contact us today.
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