Petty Theft

The theft of items or money is usually classified as either Petty Theft or Grand Theft, based on the value involved. If the amount taken is less than $950, it generally qualifies as Petty Theft. Conversely, if the value exceeds $950, it is typically categorized as Grand Theft, which can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Relevant legal guidelines, outlined in Penal Code Sections 484, 487, 489, 490, and 490.5, differentiate between these two types of theft and outline the corresponding penalties. Additionally, Penal Code Section 490.1 provides that if the value of the stolen item is under $50, the offense may be treated as an infraction.

What is Petty Theft?

Petty theft is a criminal offense characterized by the unlawful taking of someone else’s property that is generally valued at less than $950, particularly in California. This type of theft often involves actions like shoplifting, pilfering personal belongings, or acquiring goods without the owner’s permission.

Petty theft is usually a misdemeanor, leading to fines, community service, probation, or short jail time. It can escalate to a felony for repeat offenders or under certain conditions. Key elements include intent to deprive the owner of the property and a permanent lack of consent.

Petty Theft: The act of pilfering clothing from a store without paying is an all-too-common occurrence in retail environments. In these scenarios, the vigilant eyes of store security take center stage, tasked with executing a citizen’s arrest and promptly notifying the police.

What is Grand Theft?

Grand theft is a significant property crime that involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property or money that exceeds a certain legal threshold—typically $950 in California. Unlike petty theft, which involves lower-value items, grand theft involves higher-value goods such as electronics, jewelry, vehicles, or substantial amounts of cash.

Grand Theft Meaning: This crime can be categorized as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on various factors, including the specific circumstances and the defendant’s past criminal record. Typical scenarios include stealing a car, embezzling money from an employer, or shoplifting high-end merchandise. The consequences for grand theft can be severe, entailing jail or prison time, hefty fines, probation, and the obligation to repay the victim.

Grand theft in California is defined under Penal Code § 487. It applies when someone unlawfully takes property valued over $950, or specific types of property, regardless of value.

Many struggle to negotiate with security personnel, often in vain, as some retailers reward security for catching shoplifters. Reasoning won’t deter a determined guard; it’s best to stay calm, remain silent, and avoid signing documents. Politely assert your right to refuse a search, but don’t resist if they insist. Maintain composure and wait for the police.

Retaining an aggressive, experienced, and knowledgeable Los Angeles Grand Theft Criminal Defense Attorney is the most critical decision you can make. A qualified Criminal Defense Lawyer can educate you as to your options, assist you in making critical life-altering decisions, investigate the factors that led to your arrest, skillfully examine law enforcement personnel, and litigate the case.

Petty Theft Criminal Attorney in Los Angeles

Our firm has qualified Petty and Grand Theft Criminal Defense Attorneys who will be in your corner, aggressively defending your rights to fight your criminal charges successfully. Petty and Grand Theft cases, specifically, require an exhaustive investigation into all aspects of the criminal allegations against you.

It’s crucial to have a qualified Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney with experience handling Petty and Grand Theft cases to conduct a thorough investigation. That ensures that any weaknesses in the government’s case are identified and leveraged to your advantage.

Free Consultation About Petty Theft with Criminal Defense Attorney 

If you find yourself charged or under investigation in State Court for Petty or Grand Theft, we encourage you to reach out and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION. This meeting will allow us to assess your unique situation and provide you with tailored legal advice on the best steps to take.

Let us offer you the support of a Criminal Defense law firm with extensive experience navigating the State Court system as you face this challenging situation. We focus exclusively on Criminal Defense—that’s our specialty, and it’s been that way since we started.

Los Angeles Petty Theft Criminal Defense Attorney

It’s essential to hire an experienced Los Angeles Petty Theft Criminal Defense Attorney quickly. Early involvement allows our lawyers to negotiate for reduced or dismissed charges before your first court appearance, which often occurs shortly after your arrest or during the investigation stage.

If you find yourself facing any such issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Criminal Defense Attorneys at Gurovich Berk. We bring extensive experience in navigating law enforcement, the courts, and prosecutors, specifically in Petty and Grand Theft cases.

It’s essential to avoid hiring someone less qualified for serious accusations that could result in severe penalties. We charge a flat fee for each aspect of your case, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for and won’t be surprised by high attorney fees at the end.

Proven Results with Gurovich Berk Criminal Defense Lawyers

Over the years, our Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyers have effectively represented countless clients facing charges related to Petty and Grand Theft. We’ve found that delaying the hiring of a Criminal Defense Lawyer can often make the situation worse.

We invite you to reach out for an initial FREE CONSULTATION, either in our office or in the comfort and privacy of your own home. During this meeting, we can discuss the best strategies to defend and resolve your case effectively.

Gurovich Berk Law Firm

• 15250 Ventura Blvd. Suite 1220
• Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
• Tel: (818) 205-1555