Ventura Theft Attorneys

Understanding Theft Crimes in California

Theft crimes refer to a number of different criminal offenses that generally involve the unlawful taking of funds or property from another without their permission. This group of crimes can range in severity, from misdemeanor offenses to the most serious felony and federal crimes. Whatever the charge may be, theft crimes are punished harshly and can be viewed negatively on one’s criminal record.

Theft Cases Our Theft Lawyers Can Help With

Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP handles the full range of theft crimes, including:

• Shoplifting: Entering a store and stealing property worth less than $950.
• Petty Theft: Taking property worth less than $950.
• Grand Theft: Taking property worth more than $950.
• Burglary: Breaking into a structure or vehicle with the intent to steal. This can include residential burglaries and commercial property burglaries.
• Robbery: Taking someone else’s property against their will, usually by force or threat of force.
• Auto Theft: Taking someone else’s vehicle.
• Receiving Stolen Property: When a person knowingly buys or sells stolen property.
• White Collar Crimes: Financially-motivated crimes that can include fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, identity theft, etc.

Are Theft Crimes Charged as Misdemeanors or Felonies?

Under California Proposition 47, a number of non-violent theft crimes were reduced to misdemeanors.

Generally, a theft crime will be prosecuted as a misdemeanor if:

• it is considered non-serious and non-violent;
• the property taken is valued at less than $950, and;
• if the defendant does not have an aggravating criminal record.

Misdemeanor theft crimes still carry stiff punishment.

Theft crimes can be prosecuted as felonies if:

• they involve aggravating circumstances such as violence, injuries to victims, firearms, or;
• if the value of the property stolen is greater than $950.

If a theft crime involves a federal agency, it could be prosecuted as a federal offense. Felony theft crimes demand the attention of experienced lawyers.

What Can I Expect When Working With the Theft Defense Attorneys at Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP?

Our team thoroughly reviews each case, works closely with clients, and spends the necessary time to craft an effective defense. Our analysis of the evidence, police reports, surveillance video, and witness statements frequently identifies flaws and errors in the case. Any error can make room for reasonable doubt.

Theft crimes may be some of the oldest crimes, but they can be highly complex, especially if aggravating circumstances, technology, or other offenses are involved.

Discuss Your Case Personally with Our Ventura Law Firm

As with any criminal offense, time is of the essence. The sooner you contact a theft crime lawyer from our firm after you’ve been charged or made aware of an investigation, the sooner we can help.

If you have questions about your case, contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP for a FREE Case Review.