While the word “petty theft” may conjure up images of a little infraction, the truth is that you could be permanently affected by a conviction for any theft offense, even petty theft. Continue reading to find out how minor accusations can balloon quickly and how a theft attorney in Orange County CA can assist you. Call Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to speak with a representative about your options.
The two primary theft offenses in California
Petty theft and grand theft are the two main types of theft offenses in California. Though there are occasional exceptions, petty theft often entails the theft of items with a value of $950 or less. Theft of more than $950 is often referred to as grand theft. Petty theft may seem like a trivial problem, but it can have serious repercussions. Let’s examine the numerous California penal codes and how they relate to accusations of petty theft.
First-time offenders stand the best chance of receiving light punishment
According to Penal Code 490.1, a person accused of stealing may be qualified for a lesser punishment. Remember that this code only applies to instances where the amount taken is worth $50 or more in real value, money, labor, or personal property.
Petty theft is often charged as a misdemeanor, although a first-time offender who stole less than $50 may be able to have the charge reduced to an infraction, which carries a maximum fine of $250 and no jail time. A theft attorney in Orange County CA can help increase the chances of a minimal consequence.
If you’ve previously been convicted, you might be facing a major problem
On the other hand, if a person has previously been convicted of either petty or grand theft, they may get significantly increased jail time or other punishments if they are arrested for petty theft. They may receive a sentence enhancement if they have previously been convicted of burglary, robbery, carjacking, or any other felony. Additionally, anyone who must register on the sex offender list will be regarded as a prior offender.
If there are many theft-related offenses, penalties are likely to be increased
If you have many accusations, whether you are accused of petit theft or grand theft, your punishment will probably be harsher. The value of the property that was stolen usually has the biggest influence on the length of time spent in prison. A one-year penalty is expected if the loss was over $65,000, a two-year sentence is likely if it was over $200,000, and a three-year term is likely if it was over $1.3 million.
Additional charges of conspiracy may also be added if the theft was thought to be a component of a broader plot. Similarly, if a weapon of any kind was used, your sentence may be enhanced.
The good news is that Chambers Law Firm is here to assist you regardless of your charge or potential sentence enhancements. Give us a call at 714-760-4088 to discuss your choices. Call now to schedule a consultation with a theft attorney in Orange County CA.
