Theft

Fresno Theft Defense Lawyer – KMH Law Firm

Overview

Protecting Your Rights Against Theft Charges

Theft charges can have serious consequences, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can impact future employment and housing opportunities. At KMH Law Firm, we provide strong legal defense for individuals facing theft charges in California, working to minimize penalties and protect your rights.

What is Theft?

In California, theft involves unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Theft charges range from petty theft for minor incidents to grand theft for higher-value property. The severity of penalties depends on the value of the stolen property and whether prior offenses exist.

Types of Theft Charges We Defend

KMH Law Firm represents clients facing a variety of theft charges, including:

Petty Theft: Typically involves the theft of property valued at $950 or less, often charged as a misdemeanor. Common cases include shoplifting or taking items from a person or business without consent.
Grand Theft: Involves stealing property valued over $950 or certain high-value items like vehicles or firearms. Grand theft is generally charged as a felony, carrying harsher penalties.
Shoplifting: Taking items from a retail store without paying, which is usually a misdemeanor for items under $950, but can lead to serious consequences, particularly for repeat offenses.
Auto Theft: Stealing or unlawfully taking a vehicle without the owner’s consent. Auto theft can be charged as grand theft auto when involving high-value vehicles.
Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or property entrusted to an individual, often in employment or fiduciary roles. Embezzlement charges vary depending on the value and nature of the property taken.
Identity Theft: Using another person’s personal information, like Social Security numbers or credit card details, to commit fraud. Identity theft is a serious offense often prosecuted at the federal level.

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Potential Penalties for Theft in California

Penalties for theft convictions in California vary based on the offense’s severity, the property’s value, and prior convictions. Common penalties include:

Jail or Prison Time: Petty theft may result in jail time, while grand theft and embezzlement can carry longer sentences, especially for felony convictions.
Fines and Restitution: Courts may impose fines, and defendants are often required to pay restitution to compensate the victim for the stolen property.
Probation: In some cases, individuals may be placed on probation, with conditions such as regular check-ins, community service, and restrictions on activities.
Permanent Criminal Record: A theft conviction leads to a criminal record, which can affect employment, housing, and other aspects of life.
Loss of Professional Licenses: Convictions for theft, particularly embezzlement or fraud, can lead to the loss of professional licenses in fields like finance or healthcare.

Common Defense Strategies for Theft Charges

KMH Law Firm uses a variety of defense strategies to challenge theft charges effectively. Our attorneys build a personalized approach based on each client’s unique situation, including:

Lack of Intent: Theft charges require intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. We argue lack of intent if there’s evidence that the defendant did not plan to keep the item.
Mistaken Identity: Theft cases often rely on eyewitness accounts, which can be inaccurate. We challenge identification procedures and seek additional evidence to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.
Consent: If the property was taken with the owner’s consent, this defense negates the theft charge. We gather evidence of consent where applicable, especially in cases involving personal or family disputes.
Returning the Property: While not always a full defense, returning stolen property can sometimes help reduce charges or lead to more favorable outcomes.
Challenging Evidence: We scrutinize the evidence, including surveillance footage and witness statements, to identify inconsistencies or procedural errors that could weaken the prosecution’s case.

The Impact of a Theft Conviction on Your Life

A theft conviction can have long-lasting consequences that go beyond legal penalties. It may impact:

Employment Opportunities: Many employers run background checks, and a theft conviction may limit job prospects, especially in roles that involve trust, handling money, or managing sensitive information.
Housing Options: Landlords often review criminal records, and a conviction for theft can make it difficult to secure housing.
Financial and Personal Repercussions: Beyond fines and restitution, a conviction can lead to financial instability due to restricted job opportunities and higher insurance rates.

At KMH Law Firm, we work to minimize these impacts and strive for the best possible outcome to protect our clients’ futures.

Why Choose KMH Law Firm for Theft Defense?

Here’s why KMH Law Firm is the right choice for theft defense:

Comprehensive Knowledge of California Theft Laws: Our attorneys are experienced in California’s theft statutes, ensuring a strong and informed defense.
Proven Record in Theft Cases: We have successfully represented clients in a variety of theft cases, achieving dismissals, reductions, and favorable outcomes.
Personalized Defense Strategy: Each theft case is unique, and we develop tailored defense strategies based on the facts and your specific goals.
Client-Centered Representation: At KMH Law Firm, we prioritize communication and transparency, keeping you informed of your options and progress throughout the process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Defense

What should I do if I am accused of theft?

If accused of theft, avoid making statements to authorities without legal representation. Contact KMH Law Firm immediately to discuss your defense options.

Can theft charges be dropped or reduced?

Yes, theft charges can be dropped or reduced based on evidence, intent, and case circumstances. Our attorneys work to secure the best possible outcome in each case.

What is the difference between petty theft and grand theft?

Petty theft typically involves property valued under $950, while grand theft involves property valued over $950. Grand theft carries harsher penalties and is often charged as a felony.

Contact KMH Law Firm for Skilled Theft Defense

Address

2014 Tulare Street, Ste 527, Fresno, CA 93721

Phone

559-273-5847

Kojomoorelaw@gmail.com

Related Legal Resources

California’s Penalties for Petty Theft and Grand Theft: A breakdown of penalties based on property value and prior convictions.
Understanding Embezzlement and Fraud: Key differences and penalties in California theft laws.
Common Defense Strategies for Shoplifting Charges: How to defend against retail theft accusations.