Petty Theft & Shoplifting
Riverside Criminal Defense Attorney: (951) 291-0105.
California law defines theft as unlawfully taking the property of another person. The degree of the crime charged and the possible penalties depend upon the type of theft committed. Petty theft is charged if the property stolen is valued at $950 or less, was not a special type of item like a car or firearm, and was not taken directly from the owner's person. Petty theft is a misdemeanor offense, and a Riverside criminal lawyer from our firm can help you fight these charges.
Types of Petty Theft & Penalties in California
There are four main types of petty theft crimes charged in California:
- Shoplifting, which is the unlawful taking of property that belongs to another person, with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of possession of the property
- Theft by trick, which can involve such actions as changing the price tag on an item in a shop to a lesser price
- Theft by embezzlement, which is taking something that you have been entrusted with, such as money
- Theft by fraud or false pretense, which involves lying in order to convince the owner to give their property to you
Petty theft is a misdemeanor, and sentencing can include fines of up to $1,000, incarceration in county jail up to 6 months, or both. Perhaps the most significant consequence of conviction is having a theft crime on your record. This particular crime can make it very difficult to obtain a job, as employers are often wary of hiring someone who stole in the past.
Charged with shoplifting in Riverside?
At Grech & Packer we help clients throughout the Riverside area fight misdemeanor and felony charges. Our firm is experienced with defending clients against a variety of theft charges, and we can protect your rights and advocate on behalf of your interests before the courts. If you are accused of shoplifting or petty theft we can seek reduced charges and penalties, depending on the circumstances of your case.
Not Guilty Verdicts & Dismissed Charges
We've secured positive results against even the most serious charges - See Case Results
Contact a Riverside petty theft lawyer from our team today at to learn how you can challenge your charges!
