Riverside Theft Attorney
Our Practice Areas
In the eyes of the law, some crimes are more serious than others. Though there are instances of theft that are dismissed as minor offenses, most burglary and theft cases are prosecuted with severity. No matter your reason for committing the crime, a theft or burglary charge can have a significant impact on your ability to get a job, secure safe housing, and even have custody of your children. If you are being charged with theft or burglary, you must seek a Riverside defense attorney to ensure that you have the best chances of putting your offense behind you.
Types of Theft
It is essential to distinguish between the different types of theft as defined by California state law. These distinctions could be the difference between a minor punishment and one that followsyou for life. As an overarching rule, theft is defined as the act of permanently stripping an individual or establishment of their property, money, or labor.
Petty Theft
In situations of petty theft, the things being stolen do not exceed the price of $950. For example, if you were to steal a lipstick from a store, it would fall under the petty theft category, as lipstick does not cost more than $950. Potential punishments for petty theft include:
- A fine of up to $1,000
- Community service
- Probation
- Up to six months of jail time
- Counseling
Of course, your punishment will depend on your history, your offense, and the efficacy of your Riverside attorney’s defense.
Grand Theft
- Probation
- Fines
- Up to 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor, or up to three years in prison for a felony
- Restitution
- Counseling
- Community service
Burglary
Burglary in the Second Degree
The lesser of the two categories is second-degree burglary. This type of burglary at a non-residential location, such as a business or a car. Punishments for second-degree burglary are generally less severe than those for first-degree burglary. However, this is also a “wobbler” offense, meaning that second-degree burglary can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony based on the circumstances. Potential punishments for second-degree burglary include:
- 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor, or three years in prison for a felony charge
- Probation
- Community service
- Fines or restitution
- Counseling
As you can tell, the charges for second-degree burglary are similar to those of grand theft. The specific charges of your case will depend on your record and the circumstances of the second-degree burglary.
Burglary in the First Degree
First-degree burglary is more severe, as it encompasses burglary that occurs in a residence. Manypeople refer to this type of burglary as “breaking and entering” or “residential burglary.” Unlike second-degree burglary, first-degree burglary is always a felony. It is important to note that the residents’ whereabouts are not relevant; it is considered first-degree burglary whether the inhabitants are home or not. Possible punishments for first-degree burglary include:
- Up to six years in prison
- Probation
- Community service
- Fines
- Counseling
- First strike
It is essential to highlight the first strike that is incurred after a first-degree burglary. California’s three-strike rule states that you will be automatically sentenced to 25 years to life in prison after
your third major offense (or strike). In the case of burglary in the first degree, there is no room for error; you must hire an experienced Riverside attorney to represent you.
Breaking and Entering Clarification
Defense Against Theft or Burglary Charges
Contact Us
No matter your situation, it is imperative that you have an experienced attorney on your side to argue your case. The charges and punishments for theft and burglary are severe, and the consequences can easily ruin your life. Your best hope of minimizing damage and returning to your everyday life is to call our experienced Riverside defense attorneys. With years of experience in criminal defense, no one can defend you better than our lawyers at Exum Law Offices. Time is of the essence; contact us to discuss your options.
