If you or someone you love is facing theft charges in San Marcos, California, legal help is available. The Simmrin Law Group offers a complimentary consultation session, during which our San Marcos theft crime lawyers answer any questions you may have while we review your case in detail and compile legal defenses.
Being charged with a crime can be an overwhelmingly anxious moment. Instead of letting the unknown cause you to lose sleep, trust the legal guidance of our San Marcos criminal defense lawyers, who have decades of experience in cases similar to yours.
Let Us Help You Understand San Marcos, CA, Theft Crime Charges
Our team is here to help you understand your charges and their implications for your particular case. Theft crimes can involve a variety of charges, penalties, and enhancements. While we can’t cover them all here, we can provide a brief overview.
Petty Theft
If the value of that item is $950 or less, you could be charged with petty theft. While this is typically seen as a misdemeanor, repeat offenders might find themselves facing stiffer penalties.
Grand Theft
If someone takes an item valued at over $950, this act qualifies as grand theft, a more serious offense. In California, grand theft is classified as a felony, which can lead to hefty fines and significant jail time—think years rather than months behind bars.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting involves the theft of goods from a retail establishment. Although shoplifting may seem minor compared to these other theft-related offenses, it can lead to serious legal consequences, including fines and potential criminal charges.
Burglary
Burglary is defined as the unlawful entry into a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside, most commonly theft. It is important to note that burglary does not require the actual commission of theft; the intent to commit a crime upon entry is sufficient.
Robbery
Robbery is a more serious offense that combines theft with the use of force or intimidation. Unlike burglary, robbery involves direct confrontation with the victim, which heightens the severity of the crime.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement involves the misappropriation or theft of funds or property entrusted to an individual’s care, often in a professional setting. This crime typically occurs when an employee or agent with access to financial resources unlawfully takes or uses those assets for personal gain. Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime and can lead to severe legal repercussions.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving San Marcos, call (310) 896-2723
Legal Rights You Have Regardless of Innocence or Guilt
Through the Constitutional Amendments, you have rights, no matter your situation. Whether you’re innocent or worried about a potential conviction, understanding these rights can empower you and help you navigate the legal system effectively.
Your Right to Remain Silent
If the police stopped you after being accused of shoplifting, you might feel pressured to explain yourself or share your side of the story. However, you don’t have to answer questions or make statements that could incriminate you. It’s often best to politely inform the officers that you wish to speak with your San Marcos theft crimes lawyer before discussing anything further.
The Right to a Fair Trial
You have the right to a fair trial, which means you should be treated justly and impartially throughout the legal proceedings. This includes having the opportunity to present evidence, call witnesses in your defense, and cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses. The fairness of the trial process means that everyone has an equal chance to defend themselves.
Your Right to Appeal a Theft Conviction
If things don’t go as planned and you are convicted, you still have rights. You have the right to appeal the decision, which means you can challenge the verdict or the procedures that led to your conviction. This is an important safeguard that ensures that mistakes made during the trial can be reviewed and corrected.
You have a right to other liberties, regardless of whether you are guilty or not. Our San Marcos theft crimes attorneys will diligently fight to ensure that none of your rights are diminished by law enforcement, prosecution, or the legal process.
San Marcos Theft Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Explore Which Winning Legal Defenses May Apply to Your Case
If you’re facing theft charges in San Marcos, understanding potential legal defenses is essential for your case. Here are some strategies that might work in your favor:
- Mistaken Identity: If you were wrongly accused, proving that you weren’t the person involved can be a strong defense. Misidentification by witnesses is common, and presenting supporting evidence can significantly impact the outcome.
- Lack of Intent: The prosecution needs to demonstrate that you intended to permanently take someone’s property. If you mistakenly took an item or thought you had permission, this could be a valid defense against the charges.
- Consent: If you had the property owner’s permission to take the item, it negates the theft claim entirely. Showing this can lead to the charges being dropped.
- Entrapment: If law enforcement coerced you into committing an act you wouldn’t normally engage in, you might have an entrapment defense. This requires specific evidence to establish your claim.
Every case is different, so partnering with our experienced theft crimes attorneys in San Marcos can help you identify the best defenses and create a solid legal strategy. Your future deserves the best defense possible!
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Get Your Theft Crimes Questions Answered By a Trusted San Marcos Theft Crimes Lawyer
If you have questions about theft crimes, you’re not alone. From understanding the different types of theft offenses to exploring possible defenses, Simmrin Law Group is committed to ensuring you feel informed and empowered.
Don’t let uncertainty weigh you down. Contact us today to speak to a helpful attorney who is ready to help you fight for your future.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form