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Murrieta Theft Criminal Lawyer
Unlawful Taking of Another's Property
California law defines theft as the unlawful taking or carrying away someone else's property without their consent. Various forms of theft, also referred to as larceny, include petty theft such as shoplifting and grand theft such as vehicle theft. If you are charged with theft, you could be sentenced to jail time, fines, probation and could face additional theft-related charges such as burglary or trespassing.
What is the difference between Grand Theft vs. Petty Theft?
There are two major categories of theft: grand theft and petty theft. Both of these charges include the taking of someone else's property but the penalties could be drastically different. Petty theft usually refers to shoplifting theft, but could also include anything that was stolen whose value was under $950. Petty thefts are always charged as a misdemeanor and usually require you to pay the amount of the stolen property back to the owner, probation and complete community service.
Grand theft refers to the charge filed against anyone who steals anything valued at $950 or more. It is normally a felony which carries a punishment of up to three years of incarceration. Grand theft offenses that are commonly known to the public include grand theft auto, grand theft of money and grand theft of a firearm.
Practicing Since 1999 - Criminal Defense Attorney in Murrieta
If you have been accused of theft in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Hemet, Perris, Banning, Corona, Winchester or Riverside, whether it is petty or grand theft, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney. There are various defenses an experienced attorney could assist you with. Perhaps you own the item that was alleged to be stolen, or you simply forgot to pay for the merchandise as you walked out? Let a professional lawyer at our firm gather evidence that can positively affect the outcome of your case. Do not go another day without representation!
At the Law Office of Nicolai Cocis, we understand that the vast majority of people accused of theft-related offenses are not criminals, but in fact, are ordinary citizens caught in the criminal justice system. We work diligently to help you protect your future from the effects of these charges, whether a mistake was made on your part or not.
Get in touch with our legal team as soon as possible to safeguard your rights and freedoms!
Explore Our Success Stories
- Illegal Evidence Dismissed By Judge: Private School Wins Major Victory Against Unreasonable Search by Cal/OSHA
- Jury Trial Regarding Federal Conspiracy to Obstruct U.S. Congress
- 23 of 24 Felony Counts Dismissed: Client sentenced to probation and credit for time served in an auto-theft case worth $1.7 million
- Charges reduced: Mortgage and Real Estate Fraud Valued in Excess of $1 Million Resulted in Probation and One Year of Home Confinement
- Charges Reduced: Client Charged with Accessory to Murder after Shooting at Busy Restaurant Resulted in Probation and Jail Time. Avoided Lengthy Prison Time.
- Substantial Reduction of Sentence: FBI Arrested Client for Involvement in Events on January 6th at U.S. Capitol in Washington D.C.
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Do not hesitate to contact us by calling (951) 666-2600 or filling out the form below. We review your case for free to determine the best course of action.