History of theft cases has shown it can be very difficult to defend a theft or shoplifting charge without proper and adequate knowledge of the laws and how they apply to the specific circumstances surrounding a case. The majority of influence on what charges will be filed and the penalties you face lie in the beginning stages of the case and rely on the discretion of the prosecution. An experienced theft lawyer however, can formulate an aggressive defense and combat the prosecutions charges at the outset to see that a charge is dropped or reduced as often as possible.
For example, if you are accused of stealing property that amounts to a value of more than $950, you are facing grand theft charges. In the state of California, grand theft is considered a “wobbler” charge, meaning it can “wobble” and either be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony. Seeing that the difference in a misdemeanor grand theft charge and a felony grand theft charge is a $1,000 versus a $10,000 fine and up to one year in jail or between 16 months and three years in prison, respectively, the stakes are very high depending on which way your case “wobbles.” In an instance such as this one, and many other types of theft cases, the role of a qualified theft lawyer becomes crucial to the outcome of your case.
How a California Theft Crime is Prosecuted
When a theft case goes to trial in California, the state, or prosecution, must prove that you committed the elements of the theft beyond a reasonable doubt. The defense’s job is to combat their allegations so each element cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, which ultimately results in your case’s dismissal. The most common form of theft is defined as the intentional, permanent deprivation of someone else’s personal property, which a suspect did not have a right to.
Possible Defenses to Theft Charges
The crime of theft can often be difficult to prove if a skilled theft lawyer presents a strong defense on behalf of their client in order to protect their rights. For example, a client may have a viable defense if they did not intend to steal or permanently deprive the other person of their property. The charges may also be dismissed if the person accused of theft felt on good faith that the property was in fact their own personal property. There are many nuances and specific details in cases of theft or stolen property that may not qualify as a theft crime at all, however knowing the details of California’s theft laws is essential to an ideal outcome.
Contact a San Diego Theft Lawyer Today Who Knows How to Defend Your Rights
Theft charges can leave a lot on the line in terms of your future and your freedom. Don’t risk your charge being classified as a felony when an attorney may be able to reduce it to a misdemeanor. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation with San Diego Theft Lawyer Ashby Sorensen, and get the answers you need regarding your theft charge.
Theft Lawyer in San Diego, California 