Orange County Petty Theft Crimes

California Penal Code 666 defines petty theft as taking or stealing an item valued between $50 and $400 without the owner's consent. In the state of California, petty theft is a misdemeanor offense. However, if you have prior petty theft convictions, a second offense can be charged as a felony. If the item stolen is valued under $50, then it is an infraction which is a lesser offense and carries smaller fines.

Petty theft is a misdemeanor charge, punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine up to $1000. If the property stolen is valued at more than $400, then it is charged as grand theft. Grand theft carries either a jail sentence up to one year or, a state prison up to three years.

In the cases where you have a prior conviction for petty theft, the prosecution may charge you with "petty with a prior," which is a violation of Penal Code Section 666. If you are convicted of a felony petty theft charge, then you will face felony punishment.

Protect Your Legal Rights

If you have been accused of a theft crime in Irvine or the surrounding areas, a Irvine theft crime defense attorney at Apkarian and Zalewski can help challenge the charges against you. Fortunately, if this is your first offense, we may be able to help you get your charges reduced. We can ask the courts for probation or a civil compromise in lieu of jail or prison time. We realize the importance of staying out of jail and avoiding a criminal charge on your criminal record. We will strive to win an alternative to jail such as a work release program, community service, counseling or house arrest/electronic monitoring. We believe our clients are innocent until proven guilty and will ensure the burden of proof is on the prosecution and we will do everything to fight for your rights.

Contact a Irvine Petty Theft Defense Lawyer at our firm today for a free case evaluation.