Los Angeles Theft Crime Attorney

California Theft Laws

Also called “larceny” or “petty theft,” theft happens when a person intentionally takes another individual’s property with the intention of stealing it. California statutes differentiate between two forms of theft: petty theft and grand theft. Generally speaking, grand theft is the theft of property worth more than $950.

Most individuals who are facing theft charges are honorable people with minimal or nonexistent criminal records; people who are innocent or who made an error and temporarily lost their way. You have rights under the Constitution that need protecting and if you retain our legal team, we will use our familiarity with the nuances of the various theft laws of California to do all that is possible to preserve your rights and secure a favorable result in your case.​​​​​​

One of the key elements in theft cases is intent. Prosecutors must prove that the accused intended to steal and did so without the owner's consent. This can sometimes be challenging to establish, and it's where a skilled Los Angeles theft crimes attorney can make a difference. Our legal team meticulously examines the evidence and circumstances surrounding each case to build a strong defense strategy. 

Theft Crimes in California

• Auto Burglary
• Burglary
• Carjacking
• Counterfeit Goods
• Grand Theft
• Grand Theft Auto
• Petty Theft
• Receiving Stolen Property
• Robbery
• Shoplifting

Other examples of theft crimes, often considered white collar crimes because they are non-violent and occur in business or financial arenas, include:

• Embezzlement
• Identity theft
• Fraud.

Extortion can also be considered a type of theft crime, as a person is obtaining money or other valuable goods or services from another person through force or threats.

Call Stephen G. Rodriguez & Partners today at (213) 481-6811 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our theft crime lawyer in Los Angeles!

What are the Penalties for Theft in California? 

The penalties for theft crimes in California vary based on the value of the stolen property and the specific offense committed. Petty theft involves stolen property valued at up to $950, and it is typically charged as a misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face up to six months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.

Grand theft involves stolen property with a value exceeding $950 or specific property types, such as firearms. Depending on the circumstances, grand theft can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor grand theft carries penalties of up to one year in county jail, while felony grand theft can lead to significant prison time.