Grand Theft Attorney in Temecula

Accused of Grand Theft in Temecula, CA? Call 24/7 for a Free Consultation

Facing grand theft charges in Temecula can be daunting, but with the right legal defense, you can navigate this challenging situation successfully. At The Law Office of David E Grande, we're committed to providing personalized and robust legal representation to help you fight these charges effectively. Our experience and dedication to criminal defense offer a strategic advantage in addressing the complexities of grand theft cases in Riverside County.

When charged with grand theft, it’s essential to understand that the stakes are high. A conviction can lead to severe penalties, including hefty fines and significant jail time. This makes it crucial to have a defense that not only understands the law but also the nuances of the local court system. At The Law Office of David E Grande, we go beyond just the basics. We ensure that every client receives representation that's as vigorous as it is insightful.

A skilled grand theft attorney in Temecula is available 24/7 to discuss your case. Call (951) 221-4331 now or contact us online to schedule your free consultation and protect your future.

Understanding Grand Theft Laws in California

In California, the crime of grand theft is defined under Penal Code § 487. This statute specifies that grand theft is committed in any of the following cases:

• When the money, labor, or real or personal property taken has a value exceeding $950.
• When the property is taken from the person of another (e.g., pickpocketing, purse snatching).
• When the property taken is a firearm or an automobile.
• When the property taken is certain types of agricultural products, such as avocados, citrus fruits, or nuts, with a value exceeding $250.

The key to a grand theft charge is not just the act of taking property, but the value of the property or the specific nature of the property taken. If the value of the property is $950 or less, the charge would typically be petty theft, which is a misdemeanor. 

However, even if the value is less than $950, the offense can still be charged as grand theft if it was taken directly from a person or if it was a firearm or an automobile. A strong grand theft attorney in Temecula understands these distinctions and can build a defense based on the specific details of your case.

Classifications and Degrees of the Offense

In California, grand theft is a "wobbler" offense. This means that it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony at the discretion of the prosecutor. When making this decision, the prosecutor will consider factors such as your criminal history, the specific circumstances of the case, and the value of the property taken.

• Misdemeanor Grand Theft: This is the less severe charge and is usually reserved for cases where the value of the property is just over the $950 threshold and there are no aggravating factors.
• Felony Grand Theft: This is the more serious charge and is more likely to be filed in cases involving a high-value item, a firearm, or an automobile, or when the defendant has a prior criminal record. Grand theft of a firearm is always a felony.

Understanding the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony charge is critical, as the penalties and long-term consequences are vastly different. Our job as your grand theft attorney in Temecula is to aggressively advocate for a misdemeanor charge or a dismissal of the case entirely.

Penalties of Grand Theft Convictions in California

A conviction for grand theft, whether as a misdemeanor or a felony, can result in a complex web of direct legal penalties and far-reaching collateral consequences that will impact your life for years to come. We are dedicated to not only defending you against the criminal charges but also to helping you understand and mitigate the non-criminal fallout of a potential conviction.

The severity of the direct penalties for a grand theft conviction depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony:

• Misdemeanor Grand Theft: A conviction can result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
• Felony Grand Theft: A conviction can result in a prison sentence of 16 months, two years, or three years. You may also face a fine of up to $10,000.
• In addition to these base penalties, a conviction can also lead to:
• Probation: You may be placed on formal or informal probation, requiring you to adhere to strict conditions set by the court.
• Restitution: You will likely be ordered to pay restitution to the victim for the value of the stolen property.
• Enhancements: If the value of the stolen property is particularly high, you could face additional, consecutive prison sentences. For example, if the value exceeds $65,000, an additional year could be added to your sentence.

A grand theft conviction creates a permanent criminal record, leading to significant, long-lasting consequences. It can be a major barrier to employment, professional licenses, and housing. For non-citizens, it risks deportation. A felony conviction results in the loss of firearms rights, and all convictions carry a damaging social stigma. This is why a dedicated defense is crucial to protect not just your freedom, but your future.