If you have been accused of stealing another’s property, it is essential to consult immediately with a knowledgeable Santa Ana theft lawyer. Theft convictions come with severe penalties that can last a lifetime. You need experienced legal counsel who knows how these cases are investigated and prosecuted at the Central Justice Center. Our legal team has been defending clients facing serious theft charges for over four decades. We take a proactive and aggressive approach that has earned us a reputation as one of the premier criminal defense firms in this area.
Misdemeanor and Felony Theft Crimes
California Penal Code 484 PC defines the serious crime of theft. To commit theft is to steal, take, carry, lead, or drive away money or property belonging to another. Other theft crimes include fraudulently appropriating money or property entrusted to the defendant, defrauding a person of money, labor, or property, and fraudulently obtaining credit, resulting in the acquisition of money, service, or property. Some common theft crimes include:
- Robbery
- Burglary
- Shoplifting
- Grand theft auto
- Embezzlement
- Receiving stolen property
- Extortion
- Identity theft
Depending on your specific theft charges, one of our dedicated attorneys in Santa Ana could determine what your legal options are.
What are Some Defense Strategies Used in Theft Cases?
Because theft convictions carry substantial consequences, it is crucial to have an aggressive defense strategy. Several defenses may prove effective, depending on the circumstances of your case. Some defenses may include but are not limited to a lack of intent, a belief that the defendant had a claim to the property, the defendant believed they had permission from the owner to take the property, or another person used the defendant to commit theft. Our skilled theft attorneys in Santa Ana could determine an appropriate and persuasive strategy after investigating and reviewing all evidence.
What is Robbery?
In California, robbery is defined under Penal Code 211 PC as “the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accompanied by means of force or fear.” To prove a defendant is guilty of robbery, the prosecution must prove:
- The defendant took property that was not theirs.
- The property in question was taken from another person’s possession and immediate presence.
- The property was taken against the person’s will.
- The defendant used force or fear to take the property.
- The defendant intended to permanently deprive the owner of the property.
Robbery is a felony under 211 PC and carries penalties of a maximum fine of $10,000, three, four, or five years in state prison, and felony probation. If the robbery was committed inside an inhabited dwelling, the prison sentence is increased to three, six, or nine years.
Speak with our Leading Team of Santa Ana Theft Attorneys
If you face theft charges, your reputation, freedom, and future are on the line. To help you obtain the best possible outcome, you should immediately contact our experienced Santa Ana theft lawyers at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry. Our criminal defense attorneys have dedicated their careers to protecting the innocent and providing our clients with superior legal representation. We understand how frightening and stressful it is to face serious criminal charges. That is why we are here to guide you every step of the way to protect your rights and freedom. Contact our office today for a free case analysis, where we could review your charges, explain your legal options, and determine what steps to take to ensure a favorable resolution.