San Diego Theft Crimes Attorney
Theft crimes in San Diego county involve taking another person’s personal property or money without permission. There are two types of theft crimes in California law: misdemeanors and felonies.
Joanne P. Sanchez and Lisbette J. Baltazar, San Diego theft crimes lawyers, have extensive experience in criminal law and can help you get the best result for your case.
The team at the S.B Legal Law Firm is highly familiar with the Southern California Penal Code and can help you understand the theft charge against you.
They will work tirelessly to get the best possible outcome for your case, whether they have to negotiate a plea deal is your best option or taking your case to trial.
If you were charged with a theft crime in San Diego, contact S.B Legal today to schedule a free consultation with a San Diego theft attorney. We will go over your case and advise you on your best course of action.
Hiring a San Diego criminal defense attorney will make all the difference in your case. Call us at 760-302-4652 or fill out our online form. Let us help you fight for your freedom.
What is Theft?
Theft is defined as taking another person’s property without their permission with the intent to deprive them of it permanently. To be convicted of theft, the prosecution is required to prove that you had the intention to steal.
Circumstantial evidence, such as if you were caught trying to hide the stolen property or sell it could prove that you had intentions to steal.
When it comes to a theft conviction in San Diego there are two types you can get: petty theft and grand theft.
Petty theft is usually a misdemeanor, while grand theft is usually a felony. Petty theft is defined as stealing property worth $950 or less. Grand theft is defined as stealing property worth more than $950.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in San Diego
The penalties for theft offenses in San Diego will depend on the value of the property stolen and the type of crime charged. Petty theft is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Felony grand theft is punishable by 16 months, two years, or three years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If you have been convicted of grand theft, you may also be required to register as a criminal offender.
Petty Theft Crimes in San Diego
Being charged with petty theft crime will require you to face a misdemeanor charge. Misdemeanor charges are punishable by up to six months in jail. Although, if you have no prior felony convictions you may be eligible for probation and a diversion program.
Diversion programs are a form of probation where you must complete specific tasks, such as community service or attending classes. If you complete the diversion program, your charges will be dismissed, and you will not have a criminal record.
If you are facing petty theft charges, it is essential to contact an experienced attorney that will help you go over all of your options and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Grand Theft Crimes in San Diego
If you have been recently charged with grand theft, you will be facing a felony charge. Felony charges are punishable by 16 months, two years, or three years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If you were convicted of grand theft charges, you will also be required to register as a criminal offender.
Theft Crime Defenses in San Diego
Theft is a wobbler offense, which means it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The severity of the charge will be determined by the value of the property stolen. If you are facing theft charges, it is essential to contact an experienced attorney that can help you build a strong defense and protect your rights.
There are a Few Defenses to Theft Crimes in San Diego.
Some of the most common defenses are:
-You did not have the intent to steal: If you did not have the intention of permanently depriving someone of their property, you cannot be convicted of theft. For example, if you borrowed something without asking and did not return it, you cannot be charged with theft.
-You had a good faith belief that the property belonged to you: If you reasonably believed that the property was yours, you cannot be convicted of theft. For example, if you picked up a jacket that you thought was yours but turned out to belong to someone else, you cannot be charged with theft.
-The property was stolen by someone else: If someone else stole the property, you cannot be charged with theft.
-You were falsely accused: Unfortunately, people can be falsely accused of theft. If you have been wrongfully accused of theft, you should contact an experienced attorney that can help clear your name.
San Diego Experienced Lawyers
After being charged with a San Diego theft crime, contact the S&B Legal law firm so that they can help you take on your case. S.B Legal is located in the San Diego area and can help you avoid prison time.
You do not want to take on any criminal charges alone. S.B Legal will review your case and advise you of your best course of action. Call us at (760) 302-4652 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Let us help you.
