Los Angeles Theft Crimes Lawyer
Stealing something that does not belong to you is a serious offense, often resulting in severe legal consequences. The prevalence of theft crimes has almost doubled in recent years, a trend attributed to a poor economy and high unemployment rates. These crimes can have a lasting impact on your life and future.
The average, law-abiding citizen may feel compelled to commit theft crimes to support their family and children. However, such actions can lead to severe penalties. At this critical juncture, the offender will need help from our theft crime lawyers.
If you've been accused of petty or grand theft, it's crucial to seek legal advice and representation. Our experienced criminal lawyers are here to protect your rights and significantly impact the outcome of your case. We are your best chance at a fair trial and a favorable outcome.
Failure to retain the services of a qualified attorney will significantly increase your chances of receiving the maximum penalties for the crime charged if you are convicted. However, being informed and empowered about your legal rights is key in this situation.
Our Los Angeles theft crime attorneys provide our clients with superior legal advice and service for their theft crime cases. We are here to help you, listen to your side of the story, and determine our options to give you a fighting chance at freedom.
- Burglary
- Carjacking
- Embezzlement
- Extortion
- Petty Theft
- Looting
- Grand Theft
- Operating a Chop Shop
- Receiving Stolen Property
- Robbery
- Shoplifting
- White Collar Crimes
We understand the difficult situation you may be in, having been accused of a theft crime that you may not have committed. Our team empathizes with your need for the advice of a skilled criminal defense lawyer in the Los Angeles area. We are here to support you.
With an experienced lawyer by your side, the situation may seem manageable. We offer free legal consultations for all types of theft crime offenses, including the following:
- Robbery is the use of physical force or fear to steal property or money from another person. In most cases, a weapon is used to intimidate or harm the victim(s). Depending on the circumstances, this can be charged as aggravated or armed robbery.
- Burglary. This is entering and trespassing into any structure intending to commit a crime.
- Identity Theft. This type of theft/fraud is committed when someone steals another's identity for personal gain, usually monetary gain. It is considered a white-collar crime and can be tried in state or federal court.
- Auto Theft. Stealing someone's vehicle without their permission is auto theft, also known as grand theft auto or joyriding. If a person was in the car when it was stolen, it is considered carjacking, and kidnapping charges may apply.
- Fraud. Fraud is a crime generally used to defraud another for your gain. It may involve forged documents, deceit, and lies and may fall under the crime of identity theft.
- Embezzlement. This white-collar crime occurs when someone takes money or goods they were previously entrusted with. It generally occurs in a business setting and can be tried in either state or federal court.
- Shoplifting. This crime is the theft of property or money from a retail store or place of business. Depending on the amount stolen, it can be charged as petty or grand theft.
We also handle cases of carjacking, theft, receiving stolen property, real estate fraud, white-collar crimes, looting, operating a chop shop, and extortion.
Grand Theft vs Petty Theft
In California, a theft crime is usually categorized as petty or grand theft. The charge is solely dependent on the dollar amount of the stolen item.
If the stolen item is valued at under $400, the crime will be charged as petty theft, and if the item is worth over $400, grand theft. We know how local laws work and what is classified as petty theft or grand theft.
A petty theft charge is a misdemeanor that results in a one-year jail sentence and restitution. Grand theft, however, is a serious felony that could result in a lengthy jail sentence. This would depend upon the seriousness of the crime committed and any past criminal convictions. In addition, you can expect to receive several other penalties for either offense.
If you have been accused of petty or grand theft, you should hire a criminal lawyer to protect your rights and help you obtain the best case result. Failure to retain the services of a qualified attorney will significantly increase your chances of receiving the maximum penalties for the crime charged if you are convicted.
We must meet as soon as possible to protect you and your rights. Once we start our investigation, we can negotiate and reach an agreement with the district attorney's office regarding the charges against you before ever setting foot in court. This possibility of a positive outcome should instill hope and confidence in our ability to defend your case.
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