Are you facing theft charges in Los Angeles?

From shoplifting to burglary, a theft conviction in Los Angeles can have life long consequences. These consequences may hinder your employment opportunities years after the conviction, impact your ability to get a professional license, or prevent you from obtaining a number of other benefits. In some cases a theft conviction may even result in jail or prison time.

Because of the serious nature of theft charges, it is important to have a professional, honest, and skilled defense attorney by your side. Miles Booth has successfully handled thousands of cases throughout Los Angeles County and will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome in your case.

Call Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Miles Booth today, at 424 272 1134 for a Free Consultation.

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Lawyer Miles Booth

Can I do anything to help my Los Angeles Theft case before my court date?

In some cases, you may be able to prevent charges from being filed by retaining a skilled Los Angeles defense attorney. Often times an experienced attorney can present the police department with a compelling mitigation packet, including character letters, exculpatory evidence, or documentation that restitution has been paid, in an effort to prevent charges from ever being filed.

What are the punishments for theft charges in Los Angeles?

There are a wide variety of theft charges and penalties in the California Penal Code. The severity of the theft crime depends on two factors, the value of what was taken, and the way in which the item was taken. Theft crimes involving the use of a weapon are always considered “strike” offenses, and carry particularly harsh consequences.

A misdemeanor theft conviction may result in summary (non-reporting) probation, restitution, fines and fees, possible jail time or community labor, and counseling classes. A felony conviction theft conviction may result in formal (reporting) probation, or in more serious cases prison time. Additionally, counseling classes, substantial fines, and restitution typically follows.

How can I defend myself against theft charges?

Theft charges are serious, and require skilled representation if you want to achieve the best resolution. The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office aggressively prosecutes theft crimes. Therefore, the best way to defend the case is to attack the evidence in the police report, and develop a comprehensive mitigation packet that gives the prosecutor a complete picture of you as a person.

Initially, all that the prosecutor knows about you is what is written in the police report. And that report paints you as a thief. For this reason, it is extremely important to put present the prosecutor with a comprehensive and compelling mitigation packet.

In any event, accusations are just that: accusations. They are not facts. Mr. Booth is an expert at developing a defense to help you avoid conviction. The earlier you retain him, the better your chances.

Some common defenses include:

• Lack of specific intent
• Insufficient evidence
• False accusations
• Consent

What theft charges are most common in Los Angeles?

Click on any specific offense to be directed to that page for more detailed information:

Burglary

Burglary is entering another persons property with the intent of committing a theft or felony. There are two types of burglary charges in California. First degree burglary, and second degree burglary. First degree burglary is always a felony and applies when you enter a persons residence. Second degree burglary is a wobbler, meaning that it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, and applies to any structure that is not a residence.

Grand Theft

Grand theft is taking another persons property without their consent, and applies when the items taken are valued at more than $950. Grand theft is a wobbler, meaning that it can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.

Robbery

Robbery is taking another person’s property, against their will, by use of force or fear. In California Robbery is considered a serious and violent felony, and a conviction will count as a “strike”. This may result in significantly enhanced penalties on future felonies. Shoplifting or petty theft can turn into a robbery if the person taking the item makes threats to, or assaults the loss prevention officer during the crime.

Petty Theft

Petty theft is taking another person’s property that is valued at $950 or less, and is generally charged as a misdemeanor. The maximum penalty for a petty theft conviction is six months in jail, and a $1,000 fine. If the item is under $50 you may be able to have your charges reduced to an infraction.

Shoplifting

Shoplifting is defined as entering a business with the intent to commit theft, while that establishment is open during regular business hours, and the value of the property is $950 or less. Any other entry into business with intent to commit theft is burglary. Shoplifting is a misdemeanor, unless you have certain prior convictions.

Receiving Stolen Property

Receiving property that you know, or reasonably should have known was stolen is a crime in California. Receiving stolen property is a wobbler, meaning that it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. If the item is valued at $950 or less it is a misdemeanor.

Carjacking

Carjacking, is taking someone’s vehicle through force or fear. Carjacking is a serious and violent felony, and a conviction will count as a “strike”. This may result in significantly enhanced penalties on future felonies. Carjacking is punishable by up to 9 years in state prison.

Grand Theft Auto

Grand Theft Auto is the theft of a motor vehicle. It may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the value of the vehicle.

Contact Los Angeles Criminal defense attorney miles booth

Even a first misdemeanor theft conviction can have very serious consequences. Fortunately, there are a variety of defenses, tactics, and strategies that a skilled Los Angeles defense lawyer can employ to help fight your case.

Miles Booth will negotiate with the prosecution to get an outcome that does not impact the rest of your life. If a felony charge can be reduced to a misdemeanor, Miles will fight hard to get it reduced. If there is an avenue to get your case dismissed, Miles will find it.

Call Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Miles Booth today for a Free Consultation, at 424 272 1134.