If you have been accused of stealing another person’s property, it is best to act quickly to protect your rights. Speak with a skilled Temecula theft lawyer today. These convictions result in severe, far-reaching consequences. They carry penalties that include significant jail or prison time, steep fines, and lengthy probation. They also considerably limit your job opportunities because most employers do not want to hire an individual if they fear that you might steal from their company.
If you have been charged contact our established defense attorneys who have built a reputation for providing superior legal representation to those facing serious criminal charges. Let our seasoned legal team advocate aggressively on your behalf to have your charges reduced or dismissed, drastically minimizing any consequences.
California Penal Code 484 PC defines theft as taking money or other property from another individual, defrauding a person out of money or property, unlawfully accessing the credit of another person, or fraudulently gaining access to the money or property of another person. Some of the most common theft crimes include:
An attorney in Temecula could represent someone facing any one of these theft crimes.
Under California Penal Code 459 PC, it is illegal to enter a building, vehicle, vessel, or other structure with the intention of taking money or property. It is important to note that prosecutors must prove intent. If a defendant does not enter the building intending to steal, they might be guilty of another offense. In California, there are two burglary charges. The serious felony charge of first-degree burglary is charged when the crime in question occurred in a residence. If the offense in question occurred in a different type of location, the lesser offense of second-degree burglary is charged.
Theft crimes are harshly punished in this state, so it is essential to have a Temecula attorney who can create an aggressive defense strategy. Several legal avenues may be pursued. One of the most common legal defenses in these cases is arguing that the defendant did not intend to take the money or property. Intent is one of the most important aspects that a prosecutor must prove to get a conviction. Therefore, if a lawyer can prove that a defendant accidentally took the property, they cannot be convicted of stealing. Other potential defense strategies include:
Whether you have been charged with a misdemeanor theft crime or a serious felony offense, the matter must be taken very seriously. Penalties for stealing property are quite severe, so it is essential to have the assistance of a skilled Temecula theft lawyer on your side. Our highly sought-after legal team at the Law Offices of Scott D. Henry has over 40 years of combined criminal defense experience.
We understand the stakes are high and are relentless in our pursuit of a fair and just outcome for our clients. Contact our offices today for a complimentary case analysis. We could aggressively represent your interests while guiding you through the challenging criminal justice process.
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