Sacramento County Theft Defense Lawyers

Vigorously Defending Against Theft Offenses in Greater Sacramento

Being accused of theft can be stressful and overwhelming. A conviction can have serious consequences in your life, including harsh penalties like imprisonment and hefty fines. Regardless of the type or severity of the charges you’re facing, consulting with an experienced theft defense attorney is paramount to avoiding the life-altering repercussions of a criminal conviction, including felony penalties. 

When your freedom is on the line, don’t wait to secure experienced representation. At Walsh Law, our highly skilled lawyers are committed to defending the rights of the accused in Folsom. With a proven track record of results and former prosecution experience, we can fight tirelessly to protect your hard-earned reputation. Our attorneys can thoroughly investigate your case, establish a robust defense, and advocate for the best possible outcome while guiding your legal steps with precision and transparency.

Accused of theft in Folsom? Contact us online or call us at to (916) 610-3558 discuss your case with our seasoned defense lawyers. 

What Constitutes Theft in California? 

Theft is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property without their consent with the intent to permanently deprive them of that property. In California, there are two degrees of theft: grand theft and petty theft (Penal Code § 486). Various offenses fall under the umbrella of theft, such as stealing, embezzlement, and fraud. If you’re facing theft charges, consulting with a trusted theft defense lawyer is essential to understand the charges against you and explore legal options to reduce or dismiss potential penalties in criminal court. Common Types of Theft Crimes

Theft crimes encompass a range of unlawful activities involving the unauthorized taking of property. Understanding the specifics of theft offenses is critical, as they carry varying degrees of severity and penalties. At Walsh Law, our theft defense lawyers are well-versed in the legal complexities of these cases to aggressively defend your rights. 

Our firm defends against a wide range of theft offenses in Folsom, including: 

Petty Theft

Under Penal Code § 484(a), petty theft is defined as wrongfully taking or stealing someone else’s property when the value of the property is $950 or less, including services. Petty theft encompasses various offenses, including:

• Theft by larceny: This offense is committed when a person physically takes and removes someone else’s property with a total value of $950 or less, such as jewelry, electronics, furniture, or appliances. Most shoplifting offenses are classified as petty larceny in California.
• Theft by trick: Unlike typical petty theft, which involves physically taking property, theft by trick uses fraudulent methods or misrepresentations to deceive the victim into willingly giving up their property. 
• Theft by embezzlement: This offense occurs when a person entrusted with someone else’s property or funds fraudulently appropriates or misappropriates them for personal gain. 
• Theft by fraud or false pretenses: This crime is committed when someone intentionally deceives another person to obtain property or money through fraudulent means. It involves manipulating the victim into willingly giving up their property based on deceitful information or misrepresentations.

Petty theft is generally a misdemeanor offense punishable by probation, fines, restitution, and up to 6 months in jail.

Grand Theft

Under Penal Code § 487, grand theft is committed when a person steals property totaling more than $950 in value. This is a wobbler offense in California, meaning it can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor depending on the circumstances of the case. Stealing a motor vehicle or firearm will result in grand theft charges regardless of the value of the stolen items.

The penalties for misdemeanor grand theft include up to 1 year in jail and up to $5,000 in fines, while a felony conviction carries up to 3 years in prison and $10,000 in fines (§ 489 PC). Keep in mind that these penalties may be enhanced depending on the value of the stolen property. 

Receiving Stolen Property 

Under Penal Code § 496, it's illegal to purchase, obtain, or hide cash or property that you know was wrongfully taken. Items valued at $950 or less can lead to petty theft charges, while items with a greater value than $950 can result in grand theft charges. 

Embezzlement

Under Penal Code § 503, embezzlement is committed when someone steals property that the rightful owner temporarily entrusted them with. Depending on the value of the stolen property, this can result in charges for petty theft (valued at $950 or less) or grand theft charges if the items have a greater value than $950.

Burglary

Under Penal Code § 459, it’s illegal to enter a structure or locked vehicle with the intent to commit petty theft, grand theft, or any type of felony. Keep in mind that offenders can still be charged with burglary even when the break-in wasn’t achieved by force, threat of violence, or any act of destruction. 

Burglary is a wobbler offense classified as one of two degrees, including: 

1. First-degree burglary: This is a felony offense involving burglary of a residence. A conviction is punishable by two, four, or six years in prison.   
2. Second-degree burglary: This can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony offense depending on the circumstances. It involves the burglary of a non-residence (“commercial burglary”) or vehicle. Potential penalties include up to one year in jail for a misdemeanor and sixteen months, two years, or three years in jail for a felony offense.

Robbery

Robbery is committed when a person steals directly from a person using force or fear (Penal Code § 211). This theft crime is a felony offense classified as one of two degrees, each with varying penalties. A conviction is punishable by:

1. Three to nine years in prison for first-degree robbery.
2. Two, three, or five years in state prison for second-degree robbery.