Santa Rosa Petty Theft Attorney

Penalties for Petty Theft and Shoplifting in CA

California law defines petty theft as the intentional and unlawful taking of any property valued at $950 or less, permanently depriving the rightful owner of their property. This can include pickpocketing, theft by embezzlement, or theft by false pretenses. Similarly, shoplifting is a form of petty theft that involves entering an open establishment with the intent of stealing less than $950 worth of property. It is important to note that a person does not have to actually steal anything to be charged.

In some cases, these penalties can increase depending on the accused’s criminal history and prior convictions. If the amount stolen exceeds $950 worth, these charges can be elevated to grand theft and potentially bring up to three years in jail and a felony charge. Additionally, a conviction for any sort of theft crime can be extremely damaging to a person’s reputation, harming their chances of finding employment or housing after a conviction. For this reason, it is imperative for accused defendants to retain skilled representation in the event that they should ever face these types of charges.

Retain Results-Driven Advocacy in Santa Rosa

If you have been arrested on theft charges, our firm’s experienced Santa Rosa petty theft lawyers can craft a custom-tailored defense on your behalf and fight to protect your freedom. Preserving your wellbeing is our top priority, and we are willing to stand by your side every step of the way during this difficult time. With constant communication and compassionate representation, your case is sure to be in excellent hands.