Theft is one of the oldest crimes known to humanity, and the California Penal Code’s statutes on theft date back to 1872. Theft, also called larceny, is broken down into two categories under the California Penal Code: petty theft and grand theft. If you are being charged with petty theft in Beverly Hills, the following guide will provide valuable information on the legal consequences of petty theft in Beverly Hills, including the potential penalties and fines that may be imposed by the court.

Additionally, this guide also covers strategies and options for reducing the penalties of petty theft or potentially having the charges dismissed altogether. The goal of providing this helpful information is to empower the people of Beverly Hills with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their legal situation and achieve the best possible outcome in their case.

What Is Considered Petty Theft in California?

Theft is broken down into two categories under Chapter 5 of the California Penal Code: petty theft and grand theft. This statute applies to petty theft charges in Beverly Hills.

Petty theft is defined as the theft of goods or services under a value of $950. However, there are several cases where your charge could still be considered grand theft even if the amount is less than $950. Under California Penal Code Section 484, theft is defined as stealing something that belongs to someone else. You can also be charged with theft if you lie to get money or property from someone else, or if you get someone else to lie for you so you can get money or property.

If you've been charged with petty theft in Beverly Hills, it's important to understand that the value of the property you stole will be determined by what it would normally sell for in the market or what was agreed upon in a contract.

It's also important to note that even if you stop lying or deceiving someone, you can still be charged with theft for the things you obtained through your previous lies or deceptions.

What Is the Punishment for Petty Theft Charges in Beverly Hills?

The penalties for petty theft in Beverly Hills can include the following:

• Up to $1,000 in fines
• Up to 6 months in county jail, or
• Both a fine and jail time

The charges for petty theft can take many forms, as it is a wide category of crime. We’ll discuss the definition of petty theft, how it could affect your immigration status, and how we can defend you against your charges in detail below.

If you are being charged with petty theft in Beverly Hills, call 323-655-5700 as soon as possible for a free consultation to discuss your case. William Kroger has more than 25 years of experience as a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer with a distinguished history of successful results in defending people with theft crimes.

Is Petty Theft a Felony?

Petty theft is not considered a felony in California, provided that the stolen property is valued at less than $950. Instead, it is classified as a misdemeanor offense.

The reason for this classification is due to the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, which reclassified certain non-violent offenses, including petty theft, as misdemeanors rather than felonies. The aim of this proposition was to reduce the number of people in California prisons and jails and to redirect resources toward rehabilitation and prevention programs.

However, it's worth noting that if the stolen property is valued at $950 or more, then the offense may be charged as grand theft, which is a wobbler offense that can be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the specific circumstances of the case and the discretion of the prosecutor.

If you are only being charged with petty theft in Beverly Hills or anywhere in Los Angeles County, you may be eligible for probation as long as the judge approves. Consult with a criminal defense attorney to find out if you are eligible to get your charges reduced.

Attorney William S. Kroger has been able to help people who have been charged with petty theft expunge it from their records.

What's the Difference Between Petty Theft and Grand Theft?

Petty theft and grand theft are two different forms of theft crimes in California. Grand theft is defined as stealing property worth more than $950 and can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances.

The following are examples of when petty theft can be charged as grand theft even if the value of the items is less than $950:

• If a vehicle or firearm was stolen
• If the property was taken directly off of a person
• If farm crops over $250 in wholesale value were stolen
• If aquaculture products, such as fish or crabs, over $250 in value were stolen
• If a farm animal was stolen, or was taken or killed without the owner’s consent (even if it is a carcass)
• If $950 or more was stolen from an employer in a 12-month period

These are just a few examples. There are many circumstances where a petty theft could be considered grand theft. Each case is unique, and sometimes the details of a theft case can be complex.

When you've been charged with any type of theft, It is very important to get an experienced LA defense attorney with a proven track record. William Kroger represents the accused against charges of petty theft. Get the number one recommended criminal defense attorney in Los Angeles on your side to mount a successful defense. Call 323-655-5700 for a free consultation today and begin preparing your defense.

Can an Employer be Charged with Petty Theft?

Yes. If an employer hires an employee without telling them about any unpaid labor claims or judgments that they're unable to pay, then this omission of information can be used as evidence that the employer intended to deceive or cheat the new employee. In other words, the fact that the employer knew about existing labor claims and did not inform a new hire can be seen as proof that they intended to defraud or steal from the new employee.

Will a Petty Theft Charge Affect my Immigration Status in California?

Since petty theft is a misdemeanor crime and only carries a potential jail time of up to 6 months, it does not immediately make you eligible for deportation. However, this only applies if you have no previous record. Petty theft is considered a CIMT or “Crime of Moral Turpitude” by the federal Immigration and Nationality Act, meaning that having two or more counts can make you eligible for deportation.

Additionally, a misdemeanor charge of petty theft will still appear on your permanent record and will factor into any future court decisions about deportation, should they arise. It is in your best interest to hire a trusted and experienced LA criminal defense attorney with a proven record to defend against petty theft charges in Beverly Hills. They may be able to have the charge reduced or dropped entirely.

What Are Some Defenses to Petty Theft Charges?

If you have been accused of petty theft, there may be defenses available to help you fight the charges. Some common defenses to petty theft include mistaken identity, lack of intent, and consent. Because of the complicated nature of theft charges, it's important that you find a Los Angeles petty theft attorney who has the experience to understand and defend your case.

Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney?

When you are being charged with petty theft in Beverly Hills, it's important to consider hiring a criminal defense lawyer. William S. Kroger and the rest of his legal team have over 25 years of experience defending against theft charges in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City, and the rest of Los Angeles. Mr. Kroger can help you understand your rights, represent you in court, guide you through the legal process, and work towards the best possible outcome in your case. With Attorney Kroger, you will be able to explore potential strategies and options for reducing the penalties of petty theft or potentially having the charges dismissed altogether.

Petty theft may seem like a minor crime, but the penalties can have a significant impact on your life. With potential fines, jail time, and a criminal record that can affect employment opportunities, education, and housing, it's essential to take these charges seriously and seek legal representation. Contact William Kroger Attorney at Law today by calling 323-655-5700 or by contacting Mr. Kroger online.