Theft Crime Defense Lawyer in Fresno
Facing theft charges in Fresno County can threaten your freedom, career, and reputation. Crown Law Firm provides aggressive defense for all theft-related offenses, from shoplifting and petty theft to grand theft and burglary. Attorney Yan Shrayberman fights to protect your future.
Based in Fresno, Crown Law Firm handles criminal defense matters across the Central Valley, including Fresno, Clovis, Madera, Selma, Hanford, Visalia, and surrounding communities.
Theft Crime Defense in Fresno County
Theft crimes encompass a broad category of criminal offenses under California law, ranging from misdemeanor shoplifting to felony burglary and robbery. In Fresno County, theft offenses are prosecuted aggressively, and a conviction can result in jail or prison time, heavy fines, restitution orders, and a permanent criminal record that follows you for life.
California's theft laws are codified primarily in Penal Code Sections 484 through 502.9. The penalties depend on the value of the property taken, the method used, the location of the offense, and the defendant's prior criminal history. With the passage of Proposition 47, many theft offenses involving property valued at $950 or less are now classified as misdemeanors, but prosecutors in Fresno County still pursue these cases vigorously.
Crown Law Firm defends clients against all theft-related charges in Fresno County Superior Court and federal court. Whether you are facing a first-time shoplifting charge or a serious felony burglary allegation, we provide thorough investigation, strategic defense planning, and aggressive courtroom representation.
Types of Theft Charges We Defend
Petty Theft (PC 484/488)
Taking property valued at $950 or less
Penalty: Misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine
Grand Theft (PC 487)
Taking property valued over $950, or theft of firearms
Penalty: Wobbler: up to 3 years state prison
Shoplifting (PC 459.5)
Entering a commercial establishment with intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less
Penalty: Misdemeanor: up to 6 months jail
Burglary (PC 459)
Entering a structure with intent to commit theft or a felony
Penalty: First-degree: 2-6 years prison (strike offense)
Robbery (PC 211)
Taking property from another person by force or fear
Penalty: Felony: 2-9 years state prison (strike offense)
Receiving Stolen Property (PC 496)
Buying, receiving, or concealing property known to be stolen
Penalty: Wobbler: up to 3 years
Auto Theft (VC 10851)
Taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent
Penalty: Wobbler: up to 3 years
Identity Theft (PC 530.5)
Using another person's identifying information for unlawful purposes
Penalty: Wobbler: up to 3 years
Forgery (PC 470)
Signing another's name, altering documents, or creating false documents with intent to defraud
Penalty: Wobbler: up to 3 years
Our Defense Approach for Theft Charges
Challenging Intent
Many theft charges require proof of intent to permanently deprive the owner of their property. We demonstrate that there was no intent to steal, such as in cases of honest mistake, borrowing, or misunderstanding.
Disputing Value
The value of the property determines whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. We challenge inflated valuations and present evidence of the property's fair market value to reduce charges.
Constitutional Violations
We examine whether your Fourth Amendment rights were violated through illegal searches, improper detentions by loss prevention officers, or coerced confessions.
Diversion Programs
For first-time offenders, we negotiate for diversion programs that can result in complete dismissal of charges upon successful completion, keeping your record clean.
Prop 47 Reclassification
If you have a prior felony theft conviction for property valued at $950 or less, we can petition to reclassify it as a misdemeanor under Proposition 47.
Theft charges often overlap with other criminal defense matters. A burglary charge may accompany violent crime allegations, while identity theft cases may involve white collar crime elements. Crown Law Firm handles the full scope of your defense.
Charged with a Theft Crime in Fresno?
A theft conviction can follow you for years. Contact Crown Law Firm now for an aggressive defense that protects your future.
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Fresno, CA 93704
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Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Crime Defense in Fresno
Serving criminal defense clients in the Fresno area
Crown Law Firm provides experienced criminal defense representation throughout the Central Valley. We serve clients in the following cities and surrounding communities across Fresno County, Madera County, Kings County, Tulare County, Merced County.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes; every case depends on its unique facts and applicable law. No attorney-client relationship is formed by visiting this site or submitting a contact form. Consult an attorney for advice about your specific situation. Crown Law Firm serves Fresno County and the Central Valley of California.