Theft crimes are unlawful acts that involve taking another person’s money or property without their permission. These crimes can be either a misdemeanor or a felony in California and carry harsh consequences.

If you have been charged with stealing, we urge you to contact a skilled Westminster theft lawyer at The Law Office of Scott D. Henry immediately. Our legal team is committed to providing you with superior legal representation while also providing compassionate guidance and support throughout the entire process. We understand how theft convictions can substantially impact your way of life, so we do everything within our power to have your charges dismissed or reduced, minimizing any penalties or consequences.

Types of Theft Crimes

In California, there is a wide variety of theft offenses, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. Our legal team has handled every type of theft crime and brings that experience to your case. Common theft crimes include but are not limited to:

  • Petty theft
  • Grand theft
  • Grand theft auto
  • Embezzlement
  • Burglary
  • Receiving stolen property
  • Robbery

Grand Theft in Westminster

In California, Penal Code 487(a) PC defines grand theft as the unlawful taking or stealing of another individual’s money or property valued at over $950. Grand theft is a wobbler, which means it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, though both carry harsh penalties. Typical penalties include:

  • Up to one year in jail for a misdemeanor
  • Up to three years in prison for a felony
  • Victim restitution
  • Substantial fines
  • Community service
  • Theft counseling
  • Probation

Theft Convictions and Future Employment

If you have been charged with theft, it is important to understand the significant impact a conviction has on your ability to gain future employment. Theft by employees costs American businesses an estimated $50 billion per year. If a background check is performed and your potential employer learns you were convicted of a theft crime, they may choose not to hire you and move on to the next candidate. As a result, you retain a Westminster attorney to fight tirelessly for dismissed or reduced theft charges, making it easier to find the job you deserve.

Legal Defenses for Stealing

Several defenses may be effective in fighting against charges for stealing. Our lawyers in Westminster could assess a theft case and determine which defense strategy may be the most effective. Some persuasive arguments include:

  • Lack of intent to commit theft.
  • The defendant believed they had the right to take the property.
  • The defendant believed they had permission from the owner to take the property.
  • Accidentally taking something of value.
  • Another individual used the defendant to steal. (For example, an individual placed property in a purse or backpack without your knowledge.)

Speak with an Experienced Westminster Theft Attorney

If you have been accused of stealing, it is best to be proactive and speak with an experienced Westminster theft lawyer as soon as possible. At the Law Office of Scott D. Henry, our skilled defense attorneys know precisely how these cases are handled. We successfully build effective defense strategies that typically result in dismissed or reduced charges. Contact our office today for a free case analysis.

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