If a person is convicted of credit card theft in California, the amount of time they will spend behind bars depends on a long list of factors. We will go into some of those to give you an idea of what to expect if you or a loved one is accused of this crime. However, you should know upfront that there is one factor that may be more important than all others: Your criminal defense attorney.
Keep reading to get the facts. Then contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 if you are ready to work with an experienced, qualified attorney in the area.
There Are Two Main types of Credit Card Theft: Grand Theft or Petty Theft
The shortest answer to the question of how long a person may spend in jail if they are convicted of credit card theft is that it generally ranges from six months to one year. That said, one of the biggest factors in how much time will be assigned is the type of theft: Grand theft or petty theft.
Penalties for Grand or Petty Theft
California law defines grand theft as taking property or money worth more than $950. Note that this does not have to be taken at the same time. You can face charges of grand theft if you took $951 over a seven month period. However, the months must be consecutive. For example, you must have taken money each money for it to all be considered in the same charge. The maximum penalty or grand theft is a year in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.
On the other hand, petty theft, which involves taking property that is valued under $950, comes with a less significant punishment. The maximum punishment is six months in county jail and fines of up to $1,000.
Fraudulent Use of Account or Access Card
One of the most important things to understand about charges related to credit card theft or fraud is that there are other related charges you could end up facing. For example, you can be charged with fraudulent use of account or access card. This involves stealing, faking, forging, etc. an expired or revoked credit card or debit card. There are other similar charges you may face and the punishment for each will vary.
Get the Facts You Need About Charges Related to Credit Cards
Now is the time for you to find out what your options are. To learn amore about the potential consequences of the specific charges you are facing, and to find out what your defense options are, contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088. We can provide a free case evaluation during which we go over the basic options for you. Call us now and we can get started.
