San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney

Effective Defense for Shoplifting and Petty Theft Crimes

According to California Penal Code 484 and 488 PC, petty theft is the offense of taking another's property or money valued at $950 or less. Petty theft, most commonly committed in the form of shoplifting, can be committed in several different ways, including stealing another's property without consent (larceny), by using deceptive acts, by keeping something that was given to you but does not belong to you, and by making false pretenses such as faking an identity. These offenses are all very serious, and will result in equally serious consequences for a person who chooses not to work with an experienced San Diego criminal defense lawyer.

Not long ago, petty theft and shoplifting were considered two separate offenses; however, now the two are combined and the line of distinction is blurred. Simply put, a person who is guilty of shoplifting, even a $2.00 item, will be guilty of petty theft. For a person charged with their first theft offense, or criminal charge in general, you may be given some relief by the prosecution, but this is not guaranteed. In some cases, a prosecutor will seek to "make an example" out of a defendant and push for the maximum consequences. With an attorney, however, you may be able to reduce your punishment to an infraction and a $250 fine, if the monetary value of the goods was below $50. For those above $50, you may be eligible for a diversion program in addition to repaying the value of the goods and completing community service. All of these reduced sentences cannot be reached without the help of a criminal defense lawyer, unfortunately.

Contact a San Diego Shoplifting Defense Lawyer

At the Law Offices of Aaron T. Hicks, the legal team works aggressively and quickly to pursue the rights and the freedom of their clients facing serious theft crime charges. The firm understands that even a first time offender may face harsh consequences, and it is their job to see that these penalties are reduced. For more information, do not wait to call their office today.

Contact a San Diego shoplifting defense attorney at the office for a free consultation of your case.