Santa Rosa Theft Crimes Attorney

Penalties for Petty Theft and Grand Theft in California

In California, theft crime charges can range from a minor shoplifting charge (for stealing something valued under $400) to grand theft, which can be charged as a felony and could require a state prison sentence. There is no such thing as a "simple" theft crime. It all depends on the nature of the crime, including the value of the property taken, any prior related theft convictions, or other circumstances.

The penalties for the following types of theft include:

• Petty Theft - In most cases, first offenses such as shoplifting are punishable by a small fine and 1 to 3 years of informal probation. In some cases, a first offense can be reduced to an infraction, thus eliminating any criminal record. A second or third theft/shoplifting offense is a much more serious matter because of the consequences. It can be charged as Felony Petty Theft with a Prior (a violation of Penal Code section 666) and is punishable by a year in county jail or even time in the State Prison.
• Grand Theft - When a person steals goods worth over $950 or money exceeding $950, it is a serious offense and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. With grand theft offenses a person could be facing a number of penalties, including imprisonment, probation or parole, restitution, court-ordered counseling, fines and fees, and community service or physical labor.

Why Trust Our Santa Rosa Theft Crime Attorney?

• Over a decade of client-dedicated representation
• Aggressive advocacy in 1,000s of criminal cases
• In Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ list for 2015
• 24/7 availability by phone to provide a free case review

If you have been arrested or accused of a theft crime, it is important to retain a Santa Rosa theft crimes lawyer with experience in theft cases in order to get a favorable result. There's no doubt that an attorney who is not as familiar with the nuances of various theft laws may miss an important opportunity for dropped or reduced charges, or even an acquittal.

Reach the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig at (707) 418-5352 today.