Theft Crime Defense Attorney in Placer, CA and Surrounding Areas
Theft charges can seriously impact job, college, and professional applications because they’re often considered crimes of moral turpitude. These kinds of charges come with a harmful stigma that can damage your chances of getting hired, granted a student loan, or approved for a mortgage. Though theft charges come in many shapes and sizes, one thing that ties them together is the seriousness of the consequences should you be convicted.
When it comes to theft crimes, a successful defense depends on an in-depth knowledge of how the courts and prosecutors handle the details of investigation and trial. Derek L. Casey has successfully defended clients facing charges from identity theft to receiving stolen property, and will do everything in his power to protect you from these damaging charges.
When to Hire an Attorney for Theft Crimes in California
There is a very narrow window of opportunity in theft cases to avoid having criminal charges filed against you. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for any theft crime, it’s extremely important to obtain legal representation. Even the least serious theft conviction can come with steep penalties, including time served, heavy fines, loss of voting rights, and in some cases, blocked citizenship status for non-citizens.
Derek L. Casey is prepared to defend you against a wide range of theft charges, including but not limited to:
- Shoplifting & retail theft
- Bad checks & forgery
- Receiving stolen property
- Robbery & burglary
- Embezzlement
Theft Crime FAQs
What is a crime of moral turpitude?
While there is no set definition of a crime of moral turpitude under criminal law, various U.S. courts have described them as any “conduct that shocks the public conscience as being inherently base, vile, or depraved, contrary to the rules of morality.” These crimes typically involve dishonesty or shocking behavior. Both judges and the general public regard these crimes harshly, which is why hiring an attorney early on is critical in theft cases.
What is considered theft in California?
California law defines theft as stealing property by larceny (taking personal property), false pretense (lying, fraud, or deception), or embezzlement (theft or misappropriation of property/funds placed in your trust or belonging to your employer) with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property.
Some specific crimes defined in California Penal Code § 484 include:
- Defrauding a public housing program
- Taking lost property without trying to find the owner
- Failing to return rented or leased property
- Unlawfully using a debit or credit card
What factors determine the classification of a theft charge?
Classifications of theft in California include petty theft, petty theft with prior conviction, grand theft, and looting. The classification will determine the seriousness of the penalty and is determined by the value of the property taken. That amount is determined by fair market value, or in the case of stolen services, the contract price and/or going wages for the service.
When you contact Derek L. Casey, we will take the time to explain the charges and explore all possible options for your defense, including any potential for dismissal or reduction of charges.
