Tustin Petty Theft Defense Attorneys

WHAT IS PETTY THEFT?

According to California penal Code 666, petty theft is defined as the act of stealing an item under the value of $400. Although it may not sound like a major crime, a petty theft charge can have a tremendous impact on your life. It could especially affect your future employment opportunities, particularly if they involve handling money or public funds. Your trustworthiness and your credibility become questionable.

MISDEMEANOR OR FELONY?

First-time offenders are usually charged with a misdemeanor, but if you've had prior petty theft convictions, then there is a good chance that it could be charged as a felony. Penalties for petty theft could include fines running to hundreds of dollars. You could even face jail time of up to six months. On the other hand, repeat offenders may end up spending more than a year in state prison.

If the value of the item allegedly stolen is said to be under $50, it could be charged as an infraction, which is a lesser charge than a misdemeanor and will not go on your criminal record. A theft record will definitely remain a stain on your reputation and will affect employment opportunities and your ability to obtain professional licenses.

THE DEFENSE

Being charged with stealing something when you know you didn't do it, can be a horrible feeling. A theft charge could have stemmed from someone absent-mindedly carrying something out of a store. Others have medical conditions. For example, they may be taking medication that causes absent-mindedness. Or they may be kleptomaniacs - people with a psychological condition who feel compelled to steal. Such people don't need jail time. They need help.

WHY YOU NEED A GOOD LAWYER

If you have been charged with petty theft, you need an experienced petty theft defense attorney who will investigate the case thoroughly. A Wallin & Klarich, we have extensive experience and knowledge of local courts. We look at the evidence and make sure that our client's side of the story is told. Every citizen of the United States has the right to defend himself or herself against a criminal charge and we sincerely believe that it is our job to defend and protect your constitutional rights.

If you or a loved one has been charged with petty theft in Southern California, call Wallin & Klarich to discuss your case. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

At Wallin & Klarich, we approach every case with the belief that the person we're defending could easily be one of our own family members. We've seen firsthand how stressful legal matters can be for our clients and their loved ones. We are committed to being available to our clients at all times -- 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. If you or someone you love is facing theft charges in Southern California, you should call Wallin & Klarich today for a free evaluation of your case. Call 1-888-228-6315 or fill out our online consultation form to get in contact with a legal professional today. We will be there when you call.