Petty Theft/Shoplifting Defense
Have you been arrested on petty theft or shoplifting charges? In California, this type of misdemeanor theft crime can expose a person to the possibility of jail time, expensive fines, or both. If you are facing charges of this nature in Santa Rosa, it is crucial that you contact a highly knowledgeable Santa Rosa petty theft attorney from the Law Offices of Evan E. Zelig, P.C. to protect yourself against these consequences and fight for a reduction or dismissal of your charges.
For more than 10 years, our firm has defended the rights of countless accused individuals against a wide variety of different charges. Having earned a 2015 Super Lawyers® Rising Stars℠ designation and a Martindale-Hubbell® Client Distinction Award for our outstanding advocacy, our trial-tested legal professionals are equipped with the skills and knowledge you need to maximize your chances of securing a desirable outcome for your situation.
Tell us about your charges today by requesting a free consultation online.
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.
A conviction of petty theft can bring the following penalties:
- Up to six months in county jail
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- A misdemeanor record
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.
Take control of your future today and contact our Santa Rosa petty theft lawyer online today!