A theft conviction can lead to serious legal and personal consequences, including incarceration and professional repercussions. If you are currently facing a theft crime charge, you need an experienced Tustin criminal defense lawyer from Simmrin Law Group.
We have served thousands of clients over our 20-year tenure and have a reputation as fierce advocates for justice. As experienced trial attorneys, we are unafraid to pull out all the stops to protect your rights and freedoms. Contact us today to speak to a Tustin theft crimes lawyer about your case.
The Benefits of a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Tustin
The government must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to secure a conviction. Even though that is a high standard, the state and prosecution have significant resources to work with. Without a lawyer on your side, you are at a disadvantage and run the risk of facing the maximum penalty.
A criminal defense lawyer can investigate the facts of your case and create an argument that defends you against the charges. Our goal is to ensure you receive a fair trial and to use every strategy to work toward the most favorable resolution available under the circumstances.
For a free legal consultation with a theft crimes lawyer serving Tustin, call (310) 896-2723
Types of Theft Crimes in California
California Penal Code Section 484 defines theft as the taking or carrying away of another’s personal property through fraudulent means. This definition is broad and includes both the physical taking of possessions with the intent to deprive the owner (larceny) and obtaining property through false pretenses or misrepresentations (fraud/embezzlement).
California breaks theft crimes into two general categories based on the value of stolen property.
- Grand Theft. Grand theft is defined as the taking of property valued at more than $950. The taking does not have to be performed all at once and can consist of smaller takings that accumulate to more than $950. Theft of a firearm or automobile is also considered grand theft, regardless of their value.
- Petty Theft. Petty theft is defined as theft of any property valued below $950. Prior petty theft convictions can impact future charges and result in harsher petty theft punishments.
Other theft crimes are defined in terms of the means of taking, such as:
- Burglary. Burglary is the crime of unlawfully entering another’s property with the intention to commit a theft or another felony crime. Theft doesn’t need to actually occur to receive a burglary charge.
- Robbery. Robbery is the theft of another’s possessions using force or the threat of force.
- Identity theft. Identity theft consists of using another’s personal information (bank info, credit cards, SSN, etc.) without their permission to obtain property.
- Theft-by-deception. Theft-by-deception involves the use of false pretenses to acquire money or property from another.
Tustin Theft Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What is the Punishment for Theft in Tustin?
The punishment for petty theft in California is a maximum fine of $1,000 and a jail sentence no greater than six months. Grand theft can be punished by up to a year in prison and a fine not to exceed $5,000. Grand theft of a firearm or automobile can result in up to three years in prison.
As with any crime, aggravating factors, such as prior convictions, can result in harsher criminal penalties. Theft is considered a “wobbler” offense in that it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the circumstances.
In addition to criminal sentencing, the offender may be required to pay restitution to the victim. This includes the value of the stolen property plus any losses the victim sustained due to the theft, which could include pain and suffering.
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Potential Defenses Against Theft Charges
There are several strategies a Tustin theft crimes lawyer can use to defend you against charges:
- There was no intent. Theft requires criminal intent, so you could claim that you didn’t mean to take the property or had a reasonable belief it was yours.
- You had the owner’s consent. Your attorney could also argue that you had the owner’s consent and did not deprive them without their permission.
- The property is yours. For some kinds of property, there may be legitimate disputes about ownership that could justify your taking.
- The police violated your rights. If the police violated your rights when arresting you or searched your person without permission, you could suppress evidence they collected.
Your attorney will know what to expect in California theft crime cases and will tailor a unique strategy to defend you against the prosecution.
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Simmrin Law Group: Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer in Tustin
A theft conviction can throw your life into chaos and put your liberty, privileges, and social reputation in jeopardy. With our deep understanding of criminal law, Simmrin Law Group can be your advocate and protect you from criminal charges and prosecutorial overreach. We can use our decades of experience to help you when needed most.
Contact our offices online or reach out by phone for a free case consultation with a theft crimes lawyer in Tustin.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form