Riverside Theft Defense Attorney

Fearlessly Defending the Accused in California

Being accused of a theft crime can feel overwhelming, confusing, and intimidating, especially for first-time offenders. Whether you were unaware of your actions or simply made an honest mistake, you are entitled to a robust defense, which is where The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman steps in. 

Since 2008, our theft defense lawyer has provided strategic representation to accused Californians facing all types of theft crime charges, from shoplifting to grand theft auto. We understand the high stakes involved in these cases and are committed to defending your rights and reputation every step of the way. 

Don’t let one mistake define the rest of your life; let us put our decades of experience to work for you. Attorney Jacqueline Goodman is a state bar-certified criminal law specialist with an unrivaled track record of results, making us uniquely positioned to protect your future in and out of the courtroom. 

If you were arrested for theft in Riverside, our firm can diligently defend your rights. Contact us online to discuss your case. Se habla español.

What Constitutes Theft in California?

Theft or larceny refers to various criminal offenses under Cal. Penal Code (PC) § 484. State law defines theft as the unlawful stealing, taking, or carrying away of another person’s property, money, or labor with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. 

Common Theft Offenses We Defend Against

Burglary

Burglary involves unlawfully entering a residence, commercial structure, or locked vehicle with the intent to commit theft or any felony offense (PC § 459). There are two degrees, including first-degree burglary (residential) and second-degree burglary (commercial or other structures). 

First-degree burglary is always a felony. It carries 2, 4, or 6 years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines. Second-degree burglary is a wobbler offense that can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. A felony carries $10,000 in fines and up to three years in prison. A misdemeanor carries $1,000 in fines and up to one year in jail. 

Grand Theft Auto

Grand theft auto (GTA) occurs when a person unlawfully takes or drives someone else’s vehicle with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of it (PC § 487(d)(1)). This is a wobbler offense that is usually charged as a felony. In addition to fines, penalties may include one year in jail to three years in prison. 

Identity Theft

Identity theft involves using another person’s personal information to commit fraud or obtain money or property (PC § 530.5). This wobbler offense carries up to one year in jail and $1,000 in fines for misdemeanors and up to three years and $10,000 in fines for felonies. 

Robbery

Robbery is always a felony and involves taking someone else’s property by force or fear (PC § 211). First-degree robbery is punishable by 3, 4, or 6 years in state prison and up to $10,000 in fines. If the act is committed in an inhabited structure with two or more people, the maximum sentence is increased to nine years. Second-degree robbery carries 2, 3, or 5 years in state prison and up to $10,000 in fines. 

Shoplifting

Shoplifting refers to entering a store during business hours with the intent to steal property worth $950 or less (PC § 459.5). This is typically a misdemeanor punishable by up to six months in jail and $1,000 in fines. Defendants with prior convictions may face enhanced charges and penalties. 

Is Theft a Felony or a Misdemeanor? 

Theft may be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor. Some influencing factors include the nature of the offense, the value of the property taken, prior criminal history, and other aggravating factors involved.

In some cases, it may be possible to reduce a felony theft offense to a misdemeanor. We can review the facts of your case, discuss your legal options, and advocate for reduced sentencing when possible to protect your future opportunities. 

What Are the Penalties for a Theft Conviction?

The penalties for a theft conviction depend on the circumstances of the case, prior convictions, and other details. Some potential outcomes include jail or prison time, fines, probation, restitution, a permanent criminal record, and immigration consequences. 

A conviction can also result in collateral consequences, such as the loss of professional licenses, reputational damage, and civil liabilities. We have a deep understanding of these cases to defend your liberty and pursue a favorable outcome. 

What Is the Difference Between Grand Theft & Petty Theft? 

The primary difference between grand theft and petty theft is the value of the stolen property, goods, or merchandise. Property valued at less than $950 constitutes petty theft, while property valued at over $950 can lead to grand theft charges. 

How Did Proposition 36 Affect Theft Charges in California?

Proposition 36 (known as the “Homelessness, Drug Addiction, and Theft Reduction Act”) was passed by voters in 2024 and restored felony exposure for certain theft offenses that had previously been reduced to misdemeanors under Proposition 47, which passed in 2014. We can explain how this act may apply to your case and evaluate potential defenses to address the charges and protect your record. 

Defending Against Theft Charges

Some common legal defenses against theft charges include:

• Lack of intent. If you did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of the property, we can fight to dismiss the charge. 
• Mistake of fact. If you accidentally took someone’s property because you genuinely believed it was your own, this can serve as a valid defense.
• Insufficient evidence. If the prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to convict you beyond a reasonable doubt, we can file a motion for dismissal.
• Duress or coercion. If you were forced to commit theft under threat, we can argue that your actions were necessary to avoid immediate harm. 
• Mistaken identity. If you were mistakenly identified as the perpetrator, we can help you gather evidence to establish an alibi. 
• Entrapment. If law enforcement enticed you to commit a crime you would not have committed otherwise, we can gather evidence of entrapment.

We can assess the charge against you and recommend an effective approach for your specific case, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal with the prosecution, advocating for a reduction, or pursuing a dismissal. 

Why Hire The Law Offices of Jacqueline Goodman? 

No matter the severity of the theft offense, securing a timely defense is paramount to safeguarding your freedom. Some advantages of working with our time-tested defense lawyer include: 

Nationally Acclaimed Advocate

Our nationally recognized lawyer has earned national and state honors for courtroom excellence and is a member of the NACDL and the NCDD.

State Bar-Certified Criminal Law Specialist

As a state bar-certified criminal law specialist, our attorney has met rigorous standards and demonstrated high-level expertise in complex criminal matters. 

Decades of Criminal Defense Experience

With decades of criminal defense experience and thousands of cases handled, we are well-equipped to advocate for your best interests.

Direct Attorney Involvement

We provide hands-on representation and direct attorney involvement for every case to position yours for a successful outcome. 

Respected Local Reputation

Our firm has a positive reputation in the legal community and is well-respected by local judges, prosecutors, and peers. 

Bilingual Support

We have Spanish-speaking staff available to accommodate clients from all backgrounds, cultures, and walks of life. 

Being accused of theft can be nerve-racking, but you don’t have to fight the charge alone. Call (714) 266-3945 to schedule a free consultation.