California law harshly punishes theft. Even more “minor instances” have the potential to result in jail time. The punishment depends on the value of what is alleged to have been taken. Given the escalating values of property due to inflation and the lack of an indexing mechanism in the law, more cases of theft are being punished more severely.
Theft can either be charged as petty theft or Grand Theft. If the value of the property allegedly taken is below $950 (except if it involved firearms), the defendant would be charged with a petty theft misdemeanor. Even though it is a misdemeanor, there is a possibility of up to six months in County Prison if convicted. You may also be subject to probation, fines, and restitution.
Grand Theft may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. If charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction can carry a penalty of up to one year in prison. If charged as a felony, a conviction could be punished with A sentence of up to three years in prison. The prosecutor has some discretion and how they will charge the crime since it is considered to be a “wobbler.”
Theft is also viewed as a crime of dishonesty, meaning that it can impact your ability to remain in the country or get a job. Even a seemingly minor incident could have long-lasting and serious ramifications on your life. This is something that you should consider before agreeing to plead guilty to a theft offense. You need legal defense no matter what type of felony charges you find yourself facing.
Contact a Marin County Criminal Defense Attorney Today
The Mason Law Office is here for you if you find yourself in the criminal justice system. You should never try to handle charges on your own. To speak with an attorney, send us a message online or call us at 833.717.1127
