Theft Attorney in Murrieta

Defending Murrieta Theft Charges Since 2002

If you’re facing theft accusations in Murrieta, you need clear answers about the charge, possible consequences, and what to do next. I have devoted my legal career to criminal defense since 2002. As your theft crime attorney in Murrieta, I examine the evidence, explain your options, and protect your rights at each step.

I’ll listen to your account, assess issues such as property value and criminal intent, and explain the available next steps. I give every case the time and preparation it deserves because I know what’s at stake for you and your future.

Call (951) 221-4331 or reach out online to schedule your no-cost consultation with a Murrieta theft crimes lawyer who has practiced criminal defense since 2002.

Understanding California’s Theft Laws

California law categorizes theft primarily based on the value of the property stolen. The key threshold for most property theft offenses is $950, established under Penal Code sections 484, 487, 488, and 490.2.

• Petty Theft (Misdemeanor) Statute: Penal Code §484(a) and §488.
• Petty Theft (Misdemeanor) Definition: Stealing money, property, or labor valued at $950 or less.
• Petty Theft (Misdemeanor) Penalty: Generally a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in county jail and a fine up to $1,000.
• Grand Theft (Wobbler/Felony) Statute: Penal Code §487.
• Grand Theft (Wobbler/Felony) Definition: Stealing money, property, or labor valued at more than $950.
• Grand Theft (Wobbler/Felony) Classification: Grand theft is generally a “wobbler” offense, meaning the prosecutor has discretion to file it as either a misdemeanor (up to one year in county jail) or a felony (16 months, two years, or three years in county jail).
• Additional Grand-Theft Categories: Certain property types, including firearms, automobiles, and property taken directly from a person, can qualify as grand theft regardless of value under Penal Code §487. Whether the prosecutor files a misdemeanor or felony in those situations depends on the specific facts and applicable statutory provisions.

California jury instructions also recognize that fair-market-value evidence and the prosecution’s burden to prove the charged level of theft are directly relevant to how a case is classified and how it proceeds.

Penalties & Collateral Consequences of a Theft Conviction

A theft conviction can have consequences beyond the sentence imposed. The full picture depends on the charged statute, misdemeanor or felony classification, prior record, and specific case facts.

• Felony Jail Time: Grand theft charged as a felony carries county jail sentences of up to three years.
• Wobbler Negotiation: Where the law permits prosecutorial discretion, I may seek a misdemeanor filing or resolution when the facts support it.
• Restitution: A court may order restitution to the victim as part of a sentence or case resolution when legally required.
• Immigration: Depending on the offense, a theft conviction may create immigration risks for non-citizens, but the effect is fact-dependent and requires case-specific analysis.
• Professional Licensing: A conviction can affect state-issued professional licenses in fields such as law, real estate, and finance, though the outcome varies by licensing board and circumstances.
• Criminal Record: A criminal record can create practical obstacles for employment applications, housing background checks, and other matters, depending on the person’s situation and governing rules.

Criminal Defense Since 2002, Top 100 Recognition Since 2013

Clients come to me for criminal defense because that’s the only type of case I take. Since 2002, I have focused on defending people charged with crimes, including theft offenses, in Riverside County. My familiarity with local courts, law enforcement, and district attorneys informs how I prepare for each stage of a Murrieta theft case.

The National Trial Lawyers has included me in its Top 100 Trial Lawyers list each year since 2013.

• Criminal defense since 2002: I know local judges, prosecutors, and how Riverside County handles theft crimes.
• Personal approach to defense: I provide a strategy tailored to your circumstances rather than taking a one-size-fits-all approach.
• No-cost consultations: I can explain your options before you make any decisions.

I believe in clear, prompt answers to client questions. I focus our conversations on what’s important: your situation and your goals. My experience as a theft defense lawyer in Murrieta allows me to share insights about potential case timelines, common prosecutorial approaches, and practical steps based on local courtroom procedures.

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