Theft Crimes

What are Theft Crimes?

A theft crime is a criminal offense involving the stealing or receipt of another person’s property, without consent.  Theft crimes may be considered misdemeanors or felonies.  The extent of the criminal charges will depend upon the value of the property that was stolen.  Theft crimes are usually categorized as petty theft and grand theft. 

Petty theft is considered a lesser offense and it is typically classified as a misdemeanor.  If the theft crime involved the use of a weapon, the offense may be classified as a felony.  Petty theft crimes involve the stealing or receipt of another person’s property that is valued at less than $400.  Commonly committed petty theft crimes include:  shoplifting, credit card fraud, burglary, forgery, or receiving stolen property.

Grand theft is a serious criminal offense that is typically classified as a felony.  Criminal charges associated with grand theft can be enhanced if the person used a weapon during the commission of the crime.  Grand theft is the stealing or receipt of another person’s property that is valued at more than $400.  Frequently committed grand theft crimes include:  vehicular theft, armed robbery, embezzlement, identity theft, fraud, counterfeiting, receiving stolen party, and larceny.   

Theft Crimes & Legal Penalties

The legal penalties for a theft crime conviction will depend upon several factors, such as:  the defendant’s prior criminal history, the type of crime committed, and the amount of monetary damages, and if the defendant has prior theft convictions.  If a person is convicted of a theft crime, he/she may be subject to paying restitution, jail time, fines, community service, probation, and legal fees.  Additionally, the person will have a damaged criminal record, which will adversely affect the person’s future employment, housing, and educational opportunities. 

Contact an Orange County & Irvine Criminal Defense Attorney

If you have been charged with a theft crime in Orange County, you will need reliable, aggressive legal representation from a skilled criminal defense attorney.  The Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry has successfully handled a vast array of theft crime cases for clients in Orange County and surrounding areas.  At the Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, each client’s case is considered a priority.  Criminal Defense Lawyer, Virginia L. Landry, aims to provide each of her clients with upstanding legal advice and dependable resources.