Los Angeles Theft Defense Lawyers 

Don't Face Your Charges without Legal Guidance

Theft charges can subject you to fines, jail time, or both. Before pleading guilty, remember that several possible defenses may lead to an acquittal or a plea agreement. It is crucial to work with a theft defense lawyer in Los Angeles who understands the prosecution’s challenges in securing a conviction.

A Los Angeles theft defense attorney from our offices can show you legal options you might not realize you have. Call today at (818) 918-5838 or contact us online.

Types of Theft Crimes Prosecuted in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and City Attorney prosecute many theft-related offenses, each with its own legal nuances, penalties, and consequences. Knowing the specific charge you or a loved one faces is critical for preparing an effective defense. 

Theft is further divided into petty theft and grand theft. In California, the dividing line is $950 in value. Theft of property above this value is grand theft; property worth less is petty theft. 

Our team has experience with common theft allegations in Los Angeles and can guide you through every stage of the legal process:

• Petty theft: Stealing property valued under $950, often charged as a misdemeanor.
• Grand theft: Involves higher-value property, firearms, or vehicles, and may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor.
• Shoplifting: Stealing merchandise from a store, which may be an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony.
• Embezzlement: Taking property or funds while in a position of trust, common in workplaces.
• Auto theft and grand theft auto: Stealing or driving away a vehicle without permission, prosecuted under specific statutes.
• Receiving stolen property: Knowingly accepting or buying stolen items, even without personally committing the theft.
• Larceny: Unlawfully taking and carrying away another person’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner. A larceny attorney in Los Angeles can determine if this charge is appropriate.

Each type involves unique legal considerations and possible defenses. For example, strategies for shoplifting in Los Angeles County courts can differ from those for embezzlement or auto theft. Our attorneys examine the prosecution's evidence, investigate the facts, and draw on experience with both large and small theft cases to build an effective defense. 

We appear in courts throughout Los Angeles, including the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center, so we keep up with changing procedures and policies that may benefit your case. If you are unsure about the charges you face, contact us for confidential advice tailored to your circumstances.

Understanding the Difference Between Theft, Robbery, and Burglary in Los Angeles

Let’s clarify the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary. People often use these terms interchangeably, but they are legally distinct offenses with different implications. 

Theft involves taking property without using force or making the victim believe force will be used. Taking property makes theft a more serious crime than burglary, which is entering somewhere illegally with the intent to steal. A theft case does not involve force, making it less serious than robbery, which includes the use or threat of force. 

Penalties for Theft Convictions in California

The penalties for theft can vary based on several key factors:

• Classification of offense: Petty theft is usually charged as a misdemeanor with penalties up to six months in county jail and fines up to $1,000. Grand theft can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony and can result in up to three years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Circumstances of the crime: Offenses committed with other crimes or involving multiple defendants may lead to additional or enhanced charges.
• Restitution and mitigating actions: Repaying restitution, showing remorse, or qualifying for diversion programs may help reduce sentencing.
• Prior criminal history: Repeat offenses or a record of arrests can lead to more severe consequences in Los Angeles courts.
• Local court practices: Factors like probation, community service, or alternative sentencing options may differ by jurisdiction within Los Angeles County.

Embezzling thousands of dollars from an employer qualifies as grand theft. If the money is used for activities involving narcotics, penalties may increase. Even without additional charges, authorities may scrutinize relationships with known suspects or larger criminal actions. 

This dynamic yields two possible results. A person charged with theft may face charges as an accomplice to related crimes. Alternatively, prosecutors may offer plea bargains in return for cooperation or information. 

Having a strong theft legal defense strategy may give you additional options. If you are facing theft charges in Los Angeles, your criminal history, your case’s specific facts, and local sentencing practices will all affect your possible outcomes. 

Collateral Consequences (Non-Judicial)

The collateral consequences of a theft conviction—especially a felony—can be the most damaging:

• Employment: Theft is considered a "crime of moral turpitude." This classification can instantly disqualify you from many jobs, especially those requiring professional licenses, handling money, or working in finance, healthcare, or government.
• Immigration Status: A conviction for a crime of moral turpitude can have severe negative consequences for non-U.S. citizens, including the risk of deportation or the inability to obtain a visa or green card.
• Educational Opportunities: A criminal record can negatively impact applications for college admission, financial aid, and scholarships.
• Firearm Rights: A felony conviction for grand theft will result in the loss of your right to own or possess firearms under California and Federal law.

Judges in Los Angeles County courts may consider options such as probation, diversion programs, or community service for first-time offenders or lesser theft offenses. If eligible for a diversion program and you complete it successfully, your charges could be dismissed, helping you keep your record clean.

We recognize that our job is to protect not just your freedom, but your future. This comprehensive view of your case makes our Los Angeles theft defense lawyers an essential asset.

Defenses for Theft in California 

If you're building your defense, consider the following recognized strategies:

• Specific intent: Prosecutors must prove the accused intended to steal the property. Honest mistakes, such as unintentionally leaving a store with unpaid merchandise, may undermine the case for intent.
• Lack of asportation: For a theft conviction, the property must be moved, separated from its owner, and fully possessed by the accused. If these elements are missing, the charge may not hold.
• Procedural defenses: Evidence gathered without following proper police procedure may be excluded and affect the prosecution's case.
• Mistaken identity or unreliable evidence: Challenges to eyewitness testimony, unclear surveillance, or other factors can be effective defenses, particularly in Los Angeles' urban settings.
• Disputed ownership or reasonable belief: If the accused believed they had a right to the property, this may be a valid legal argument.
• Lack of exclusive possession: When multiple people had access, the prosecution must prove who removed and possessed the property in question.

What’s Not a Defense: If someone stole property and all criteria for theft are proven beyond a reasonable doubt, returning the item is not a valid defense. 

However, returning stolen property might still have a positive impact. Judges could consider this action during sentencing, and the District Attorney may take it into account when deciding whether to file charges. Showing goodwill is never wasted, but it is not, strictly speaking, a defense against a theft charge.

Shevin Law Group has nearly thirty years of experience handling cases like these. Our attorneys understand what defenses are valid and what is needed to make them work. We work diligently for our clients and provide counsel at every step. If you are facing theft charges, you may have more options than you realize. 

Why Choose Shevin Law Group for Your Theft Defense

When your reputation, livelihood, and freedom are on the line, you cannot afford to settle for less than the most determined legal representation. As leading Los Angeles theft defense lawyers, we offer a distinct advantage to our clients:

• Unparalleled Experience in Los Angeles Courts: With over 50 years of combined legal experience, we have an intimate working knowledge of the Los Angeles County court system, the local judges, and the prosecutorial standards. This familiarity allows us to anticipate the opposition's moves and craft a defense that is uniquely effective in this jurisdiction.
• A Commitment to Communication: We believe in complete transparency. Our clients are never left wondering about the status of their case. We maintain open lines of communication, ensuring you understand the legal landscape and your options at all times.
• Comprehensive Client Support: As part of our value offer, we provide a free consultation to review the details of your case. Furthermore, to better serve the diverse communities of Southern California, we offer services available in Spanish, Armenian & Russian.

Do not face the criminal justice system alone. Let our firm bring our experience and dedication to the fight for your future.

One of Shevin Law Group’s Los Angeles theft defense lawyers will help you craft the approach that’s best for your situation. Call today at (818) 918-5838 or contact us online.