Free Consultations & We're Available 24/7
WE'RE A BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM. YOU WORK WITH ONE OF OUR SENIOR ATTORNEYS PERSONALLY.
WE'RE ONE OF NEW YORK'S OLDEST CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW FIRMS. TRUST 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE.
WE SERVICE CLIENTS NATIONWIDE, WITH OFFICES IN LOS ANGELES AND NYC.
Understanding Petty Theft in Los Angeles
Petty theft is a term often used to describe a minor or non-serious criminal offense. However, in Los Angeles, a conviction for this offense can have significant consequences. It is essential to understand the legal definition of petty theft to safeguard yourself from being charged in the first place. And if you find yourself facing a petty theft conviction, it’s essential to comprehend the potential penalties and available legal defenses.
Defining Petty Theft
Petty theft is a crime under Section 484 of the California Penal Code. It occurs when someone takes property from another person or establishment, intending to deprive the owner of that property, and the value of the item is $950 or less. Under California law, theft is not limited to taking merchandise from a store. It also includes using a service without paying for it, receiving property that has been stolen, or permanently or temporarily depriving someone else of their property or services.
Examples of Petty Theft
For instance, Jack goes to a supermarket to do his grocery shopping. He picks his groceries and a candy bar from the rack near the checkout register. While in line, he places the candy bar into his pocket but doesn’t pay for it. When he pays for his groceries and exits the store, he is stopped by store personnel and detained until the police arrive. Even if Jack didn’t mean to deprive the store owner of their property, he could still be arrested and charged with petty theft.
Legal Penalties
If convicted of petty theft in Los Angeles, you may be slapped with a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in county jail. In some cases, a convicted person may be ordered to serve a term of supervised probation in addition to the fines and jail term. The penalties associated with petty theft can be costly because a conviction can show up on a background check, leading to lost job opportunities and even job termination.
Legal Defenses
Suppose you are facing a petty theft charge in Los Angeles. In that case, you need an experienced defense attorney to help you develop strong legal defense strategies. A qualified attorney may argue that you didn’t intend to deprive the owner of the property, received stolen property without knowing it was stolen, or intended to return the item or pay for it. These defenses can help you avoid jail time, fines, and maintain your clear criminal record.
Table Outline:
Table:
| Topic | Content |
|---|---|
| Definition of Petty Theft | Petty theft is a crime under Section 484 of the California Penal Code. It occurs when someone takes property from another person or establishment, intending to deprive the owner of that property, and the value of the item is $950 or less. Under California law, theft is not limited to taking merchandise from a store. It also includes using a service without paying for it, receiving property that has been stolen, or permanently or temporarily depriving someone else of their property or services. |
| Examples of Petty Theft | For instance, Jack goes to a supermarket to do his grocery shopping. He picks his groceries and a candy bar from the rack near the checkout register. While in line, he places the candy bar into his pocket but doesn’t pay for it. When he pays for his groceries and exits the store, he is stopped by store personnel and detained until the police arrive. Even if Jack didn’t mean to deprive the store owner of their property, he could still be arrested and charged with petty theft. |
| Legal Penalties | If convicted of petty theft in Los Angeles, you may be slapped with a fine of up to $1,000 or up to six months in county jail. In some cases, a convicted person may be ordered to serve a term of supervised probation in addition to the fines and jail term. The penalties associated with petty theft can be costly because a conviction can show up on a background check, leading to lost job opportunities and even job termination. |
| Legal Defenses | Suppose you are facing a petty theft charge in Los Angeles. In that case, you need an experienced defense attorney to help you develop strong legal defense strategies. A qualified attorney may argue that you didn’t intend to deprive the owner of the property, received stolen property without knowing it was stolen, or intended to return the item or pay for it. These defenses can help you avoid jail time, fines, and maintain your clear criminal record. |
Very diligent, organized associates; got my case dismissed. Hard working attorneys who can put up with your anxiousness. I was accused of robbing a gemstone dealer. Definitely A law group that lays out all possible options and alternative routes. Recommended for sure.
- ROBIN, GUN CHARGES ROBIN
CALIFORNIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEYS