Skilled and Experienced California Criminal Defense Lawyers Protecting Your Rights While Seeking to Have Charges Dropped
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In California, petty theft occurs when something is stolen and the value is $400 or less, with the exception of firearms, automobiles, and certain types of animals. Petty theft can be considered a misdemeanor or a felony, usually based on prior theft convictions of the individual charged. If the individual has two prior petty theft misdemeanor convictions, a third theft conviction, regardless of the value of the item stolen, will probably be charged as felony petty theft. Even a second petty theft conviction could be charged as a felony and include an increased incarceration period. A prior felony conviction can also affect the petty theft charge and change it from a misdemeanor to a felony. There are many elements related to petty theft charges therefore it is very important to seek the assistance of a skilled criminal attorney before facing the courtroom.
Penalties for petty theft typically include restitution, incarceration up to six months, and fines ranging from $50 to $1,000. Probation, parole, and counseling may also be required. If the value of the item stolen is less than $50, the prosecutor may choose to instead charge the individual with an infraction, which carries a fine of $250 but does not include incarceration. Conviction can also carry stigma, can strain family relationships, and can affect job opportunities. There is no specific guideline that a prosecutor must follow when prosecuting petty theft cases, so hiring a criminal lawyer to even the playing field is always a crucial part of the criminal process.
Our experienced California criminal defense attorneys will be able to determine which defense is right for your situation. Whether it is lack of intent, ownership of property, consent, mistake, impulse control, depression, stress, financial instability, or any other defense, our California petty theft lawyers will work tirelessly to examine the facts and evidence of your case and to mount the best and most convincing defense available. With an excellent track record in getting investigations stopped, contacting our California criminal lawyers early is especially important since the sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get involved on your behalf. If charges have already been filed, our California criminal defense attorneys will seek to get the charges reduced or dismissed before trial, and should the case proceed to trial, we will be ready to aggressively and expertly defend you in the courtroom.
If you are facing charges of petty theft or think you may be charged with petty theft soon, contact our California criminal defense attorneys immediately. We are ready and eager to help protect you and keep you from being charged with petty theft, and our California criminal attorneys will work tirelessly on your behalf while keeping you informed through each step of the process.
If you want the best in knowledgeable legal representation & a criminal law firm that will treat your case with consideration and concern, please contact us 24/7 at (866) 847-1247 for a FREE confidential consultation.
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