You can get professional help in your corner right away if you are dealing with a theft crime charge in Orange, CA. The Simmrin Law Group can offer you the legal advice you need if you are accused of:
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Grand theft auto
- Robbery
Let our team of theft crimes lawyers in Orange, CA start working on your defense right away. We understand what it takes to help clients in your position. We can work to get your charges reduced or dismissed. Start going over your legal options by contacting us now.
Petty Theft vs. Grand Theft in Orange
Many people wonder about the differences between petty theft and grand theft in the state of California. Let’s go over some of the major characteristics of these two charges now, so you can understand them better.
Petty Theft
Petty theft charges are used to prosecute minor acts of theft. This charge may be used if someone is accused of stealing items worth under $950. Petty theft charges are only used in cases of indirect theft. Acts of embezzlement or shoplifting are often charged as petty theft.
Grand Theft
Grand theft charges may be treated more seriously in the courts in Orange. Individuals may be charged with grand theft if they steal items worth over $950. Grand theft charges may also be used for the theft of:
- More than $250 worth of agricultural and aquacultural products
- Any horses, firearms, and motor vehicles
Taking money or valuables directly from another person can also lead to grand theft charges, even if the amount taken is under $950.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Orange, call (310) 896-2723
Criminal Charges for the Theft of a Motor Vehicle
The theft of a motor vehicle is often handled with unique charges in Orange, CA. Depending upon your circumstances, you could face two charges if you are accused of stealing a motor vehicle:
Unlawful Taking of a Motor Vehicle
Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle – also called “joyriding” – is used to prosecute individuals who take a vehicle while intending to return it. The court may be more likely to use this charge when prosecuting first-time offenders, as it is generally less severe than grand theft auto.
Grand Theft Auto
Grand theft auto charges are used to handle many accusations of motor vehicle theft in the state of California. Individuals who take a vehicle while intending to keep it for their own purposes can be charged with grand theft auto. Individuals may keep a vehicle to:
- Sell it illegally
- Tear it apart and sell its parts
- Drive it
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Charges of Robbery in Orange, CA
Robbery is the final theft crime we will discuss in this article. Robbery charges should only apply if an individual directly takes property from another person with the use of fear or force. Making verbal threats or brandishing a weapon while taking another person’s property can lead to robbery charges.
The state of California uses two charges to prosecute robbery. These charges include:
First-Degree Robbery
You may face incredibly harsh penalties if you are accused of first-degree robbery. This charge only covers specific situations. First-degree robbery involves robbing an individual as they:
- Spend time in an inhabited structure
- Drive or ride in a motor vehicle
- Remain near an ATM after using the ATM machine
Second-Degree Robbery
California’s court system uses second-degree robbery charges to prosecute acts of a robbery that do not qualify as first-degree robbery. Second-degree robbery is generally punished less severely.
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Penalties for Theft Crime Charges in Orange
Now that we’ve gone over basic information about theft crime charges, we can review the penalties. Let’s get started now.
Fines for Theft Crimes:
- Up to $1,000 for petty theft
- Up to $5,000 for unlawful taking of a motor vehicle
- Up to $10,000 for grand theft and grand theft auto
- Up to $10,000 for robbery
Incarceration for Theft Crimes
- Up to six months for petty theft
- Up to one year for misdemeanor joyriding
- Up to three years for grand theft and grand theft auto
- Up to five years for second-degree robbery
- Up to nine years for first-degree robbery
Make sure you are ready to handle any of these charges by reaching out to a criminal defense lawyer in Orange right now.
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Take Charge with an Orange Theft Crimes Lawyer
Handle a theft crime accusation the right way by contacting the Simmrin Law Group for professional help right now. We can help you build a strong defense starting today. Find out how our theft crime lawyers in Orange can help with a FREE case evaluation.
It’s easy to reach us. All you need to do is complete our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form