Defending California Clients Against Theft Charges
Shoplifting / petty theft is a very serious charge. Although you may stand accused of stealing merchandise valued at less than $400, conviction of petty theft carries serious consequences. If you allegedly stole goods valued at more than $400, the crime could be charged as a misdemeanor, but usually is charged as a felony.
Conviction of a misdemeanor in California carries court fines, up to six months in the county jail or both. If you are convicted of felony grand theft, penalties include serving up to one year in jail or at least 16 months in state prison.
If you have been charged with petty theft, also known as petit theft, retain a skilled lawyer. I'm Jim Pokorny, a San Diego attorney with more than 30 years of criminal defense experience. Contact me to schedule a free initial phone consultation about your theft charges.
Understanding Grand Theft and Petty Theft Charges
If a prosecutor charges you with grand theft, it means that you are accused of stealing goods or services in excess of $400. I defend clients against grand theft and petty theft charges:
- Grand theft: You could be charged with grand theft if you steal merchandise, property or someone's identity. Stealing services valued at more than $400 is also grounds for grand theft, as is stealing a firearm.
- Petty theft: You could be charged with petty theft if you steal merchandise valued at less than $400 or switch price tags before getting to the checkout.
- Petty with a prior: If you were previously convicted of petty theft, and are now charged with a second petty theft, the crime may be charged as a felony, a violation of California Penal Code Section 666.
Protecting Your Future
If this is your first petty offense charge, I will do my utmost to have the charges reduced or dismissed. That may involve paying restitution to the store or compensation to the victim. If you are charged with felony grand theft, my goal is to have the charges reduced or dismissed and to keep you out of jail through probation, community service or work release.
If you committed a petty theft as a juvenile, I may be able to petition juvenile court to get your criminal record sealed, avoiding future difficulty with employment, applying to colleges or requesting financial aid.
Please contact me today for a confidential consultation at the Law Offices of James F. Pokorny, A.P.C. in San Diego.
