A Marin County Theft Lawyer Fighting for You

Under California law, theft is the crime of taking someone else’s property with the intent of depriving them of possession. This can be done through force or deception. While theft is a comparatively straightforward offense, the prosecution must be able to prove each element of the crime in order to obtain a conviction. This is not always as easy as they would lead you to believe, and there may be evidence in your favor. If you have been charged with any type of theft, the best chance for getting a fair result is to work with an experienced Marin County theft lawyer. 

Common Theft Crimes in California

Many different types of offenses fall under the general crime of theft. Understanding which offense you have been charged with is essential to making the right decisions about your defense. 

Petty Theft

Petty theft is charged whenever the property involved is valued at $950 or less. Typically charged as a misdemeanor, petty theft can result in up to six months in jail and other penalties if you are convicted. It will also go on your permanent record which means that your conviction will follow you around long after you have served your punishment. 

Grand Theft

Grand theft is charged whenever the property involved is worth $950 or more. Given the price of goods and services in today’s economy, it is very easy to find yourself charged with grand theft. Even worse, grand theft is what is known in California as a “wobbler” offense—it can be charged as a felony, depending on the circumstances of the case. Generally speaking, the more valuable the property, the more likely you are to face a felony grand theft charge. If you are facing a felony grand theft charge, contact a Marin County theft lawyer immediately. 

Grand Theft Auto

Grand theft auto involves stealing a vehicle with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. Grand theft Auto is also a wobbler offense but is often charged as a felony, especially if the theft involved violence or the use of a deadly weapon. Grand theft auto is a grave offense that can result in harsh consequences if you are convicted. 

Robbery

Robbery is charged when a theft is committed involving the use of force or the threat of force. Robbery is a very serious charge, either a first or second-degree felony. If convicted, you could spend years in state prison. Do not face your robbery charges alone – contact a Marin County theft lawyer as soon as possible. 

Embezzlement

Embezzlement is considered a white-collar crime as it usually occurs in the context of the defendant’s employment. It involves the taking of property entrusted to you by another person without permission. For example, you could be charged with embezzlement if your employer entrusted you with managing the cash account for his business and you took the cash without permission. Embezzlement can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, typically depending on the value of the property involved. 

Fraud

Fraud is a type of theft carried out through deceptive means. In many fraud cases, for example, the victim allows the perpetrator to take possession of the property based on some mistaken belief. There are many different types of fraud, such as insurance fraud, credit card fraud, and public assistance fraud. Fraud is another white-collar crime because it often occurs in corporate contexts, with the theft being financial in nature. Fraud is also a wobbler offense but is often charged as a felony. 

How a Marin County Theft Lawyer Can Help

Your lawyer can help in several important ways, including the following: 

• They can conduct an independent investigation surrounding the incident that led to the charge. 
• They can gather whatever exculpatory evidence you may need. 
• They can evaluate the prosecution’s case and identify strengths and weaknesses. 
• They can explain the penalties you face and the likely outcome that you can expect. 
• They can work with you to develop an aggressive defense strategy. 

Contact Marin County Theft Lawyer Josh Brownstein

Theft charges are serious offenses that can result in harsh penalties if you are convicted. You could face jail time, fines, restitution, and other penalties even if you are facing “only” a misdemeanor theft charge. Prosecutors are aggressive and focused only on getting a conviction. Let a Marin County theft lawyer from Brownstein Law Group help level the playing field. To discuss your case and your options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.