Petty Theft Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA Representing the Accused in Los Angeles County, Orange County, Ventura County, and Throughout Southern California
Petty theft is a more serious offense than you may think. Being accused of stealing property that isn’t worth much can still leave you facing fines, jail time, and the implications of a criminal record, so you need to confront these charges strategically and proactively. A Los Angeles petty theft lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney can craft the defense you need to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of this legal issue.
With 24/7 availability and extensive knowledge of California laws and Los Angeles court procedures, including potential paths to full dismissal of the charges, our firm is prepared to immediately step in to defend you. Contact us today, and take advantage of a free, confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Facing Petty Theft Charges in Los Angeles, CA?
If you’re thinking of defending yourself or leaving your case in the hands of an overburdened public defender, think again. Failing to manage this legal issue strategically and with the full resources of a dedicated criminal defense firm could affect you for a lifetime. Give yourself the best opportunity to avoid jail, costly fines, and a long-lasting criminal record by retaining an experienced Los Angeles petty theft lawyer who is dedicated to your defense.
California’s Definition of Petty Theft
Section 484 of the California Penal Code outlines the crime of theft, which encompasses both petty theft and grand theft. Under California law, theft offenses include taking any of the following actions regarding someone else’s property or assets:
- Stealing
- Taking
- Carrying away
- Leading away
- Driving away
- Fraudulently appropriating property that has been entrusted to the defendant
- Knowingly defrauding a victim through any false representation
- Obtaining credit through false representations or fraudulent means
Section 488 of the California Penal Code establishes that all forms of theft that do not constitute the more serious crime of grand theft (defined under Section 487) are classified as petty theft. Generally, an offense is considered petty theft when it involves property or assets that:
- Are valued at $950 or less
- Are not motor vehicles or firearms
Certain other specific circumstances can result in a theft offense being classified as grand theft rather than petty theft, even if the value of the property is below $950. For example, Section 487 of the California Penal Code specifies that theft of certain types of property—including domestic fowls, farm crops, and aquaculture products taken from commercial or research operations—can constitute grand theft if its value exceeds $250. Additionally, taking property directly from someone else’s person constitutes grand theft under California law, regardless of the value of that property.
If you are accused of petty theft, it means that the charges you’re facing involve allegedly stealing property of a lower value or otherwise less severe impact compared to circumstances that would constitute grand theft.
Petty theft charges are less serious than grand theft charges, but they can still carry life-changing implications. You need to take these allegations seriously, and that means retaining a petty theft defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA, who is committed to your best interests.
Penalties for Petty Theft Charges
You might think that, because petty theft involves the alleged taking of property with a lower value, this crime is a minor infraction that would result in little more than a figurative slap on the wrist if you’re convicted. However, even a first offense of petty theft is potentially punishable by jail time. Repeat offenders could potentially face years in state prison if the maximum penalties permitted under California law are applied.
Generally, prosecutors in California have discretion to choose whether to charge an offense of petty theft as either an infraction or a misdemeanor. This decision can seriously impact your future.
Petty Theft Infractions
If a prosecutor charges you with only an infraction, you can avoid jail time and a permanent criminal record. The fine for such an infraction cannot exceed $250, under Section 490.1 of the California Penal Code.
Misdemeanor Petty Theft Charges
If you’re charged with misdemeanor petty theft, the stakes are significantly higher. Not only can you be fined up to $1,000 per Section 490 of the California Penal Code, but you could also be sentenced to up to six months in county jail.
Even after you’ve paid your fine and served your time, a misdemeanor conviction can remain on your record for years. Having a criminal record can affect your career opportunities, housing availability, and personal reputation.
Felony Petty Theft Charges for Repeat Offenders
While petty theft is typically considered a misdemeanor in California, repeat offenders may face more severe consequences. Under California Penal Code Section 666.1, enacted through Proposition 36 in 2024, individuals with two or more prior theft-related convictions can be charged with a felony for subsequent petty theft offenses, regardless of the value of the stolen property. This statute allows for sentencing under Penal Code Section 1170(h), which includes potential imprisonment in county jail for 16 months, two years, or three years.
It's important to note that this provision operates alongside Penal Code Section 490.2, which also permits felony sentencing under Section 1170(h) for petty theft offenses when the defendant has certain serious prior convictions. Both statutes provide pathways for felony charges in petty theft cases, depending on the defendant's criminal history.
Let a Petty Theft Defense Attorney in Los Angeles, CA, Develop an Effective Legal Strategy for You
With significant fines, jail time, and a criminal record at stake, you can’t afford to take petty theft charges lightly. A strong defense can help you fight the charges against you or negotiate an outcome that minimizes the consequences, protecting your freedom now and your opportunities in the future.
Defenses Against Petty Theft Charges
Some of the potential defense arguments we may consider in a petty theft case include:
- Lack of intent to steal the property, which may involve arguing that you took the items accidentally while distracted or not paying attention
- Intent to return the property within a reasonable time, which may involve arguing that you merely borrowed the property rather than committed theft
- Consent from the owner to take the property
- Good faith belief in your right to the property, which may be argued even if it turns out that this belief was mistaken or arose through a misunderstanding
- Mistaken identity, which may involve establishing that you are not the person who perpetrated the crime
- False allegations, which may involve exposing inaccuracies in the evidence against you and questioning the credibility and motives of alleged victims and witnesses to establish that the theft was fabricated or exaggerated
Exploring All Legal Options
In addition to crafting defense arguments of this nature, we may also consider pursuing outcomes that benefit you through negotiations with the prosecutor.
It may be beneficial to seek reduced charges, such as downgrading a misdemeanor charge to an infraction or a felony charge for repeat offenses to a misdemeanor. Additionally, while incarceration is a penalty that you could face for petty theft crimes, it isn’t mandatory. We may be able to push for more lenient penalties in a plea deal or a sentencing hearing, resulting in fines, probation, community service, and similar outcomes instead of jail time.
Petty theft crimes generally qualify for judicial diversion, which is a motion we file that gives us a path for a full dismissal of the case. We can help defendants—especially first-time offenders—take full advantage of diversion programs when eligible, allowing you to avoid a conviction and get the charges against you dismissed if you meet conditions such as undergoing treatment and education.
The most effective defense strategy in your situation depends on the facts of the case against you. In all circumstances, we will work to highlight all ways in which the petty theft case against you fails to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If any rights violations or procedural errors occurred, we’re ready to file motions to have any evidence that was acquired improperly suppressed.
Our every move is focused on securing the most favorable outcome possible when you’re facing charges of petty theft offenses.
How The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Can Help
A Los Angeles petty theft lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney can help you explore all of your options.
We’re ready to intervene even before you have been formally charged, facilitating strategic cooperation with law enforcement and alleged victims while working to protect your rights and secure your defense. This early intervention can help you get ahead of this legal issue, potentially preventing formal charges from ever being filed or persuading the prosecutor to charge you with an infraction rather than a misdemeanor offense.
It isn’t always possible to obtain skilled legal assistance before charges are filed, but our team is prepared to put together the most effective defense strategy possible for your situation at any point in your case. From the moment you retain our services, we spring into action to:
- Analyze the case against you
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Gather all possible evidence that could support your defense
- Identify any possible rights violations or procedural errors
Our firm provides dedicated legal advocacy from the start and builds smart, personalized strategies for every client based on their unique situation. Throughout every stage of the legal process, we’ll be there to advocate for your interests, protect your rights, and present the most effective defense possible.
Why Choose The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney as Your Los Angeles Petty Theft Lawyer?
You need a Los Angeles petty theft lawyer who understands the stakes and is devoted to your defense. Throughout Southern California, defendants facing criminal charges of all kinds turn to The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney for our strategic approach, aggressive representation, and client-focused service.
Smart Strategies for a Clear Path to Victory
When it comes to building an effective legal defense, strategy is everything. Our firm is known for the strategic defense planning we provide. Every move we make is informed by our thorough analysis of the facts and smart, results-driven approach to developing a strong case for the most favorable outcome possible. We have a proven track record of successfully defending clients against all kinds of criminal charges.
Aggressive Advocacy for the Accused
We won’t allow your legal rights to be overlooked or compromised during the criminal justice process. At every stage and in every legal proceeding, we ’re determined to provide aggressive legal representation. You should never face the legal process alone—and we ensure you’ll never have to by providing reputable representation inside and outside the courtroom.
Personalized, Client-Centered Service
Our attorneys know how stressful life can be when you’re facing criminal charges. Although petty theft is a less serious charge than many offenses, you’ve still got plenty of worries about the future and questions about what will happen next. We’re here to provide the full support you need for the legal process, with compassionate service that’s focused on your needs. Choosing our firm means benefiting from a personalized experience that makes this difficult situation more manageable.
Contact a Los Angeles Petty Theft Lawyer at The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney Today for a Free Case Review
Although petty theft charges may sound less serious than other criminal offenses, failing to take them seriously is a big mistake. It’s worth investing in your future and protecting your freedom by retaining counsel that is ready to provide a dedicated legal defense against these criminal charges. Our firm provides a free, confidential consultation, so you have nothing to lose by discussing your case with an experienced attorney. By understanding your rights and options, you can make an informed decision about your defense.
For help from a petty theft defense attorney in Los Angeles, CA, contact The Law Offices of Christopher Chaney online or call 818-330-5198 today.
