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Charged With Theft? Get Legal Counsel

Long Beach Theft Defense Lawyer

Punishments for Theft Crimes

Theft is a generic term for many different types of crimes. The offense pertains to a person intentionally and fraudulently taking the personal property of another, without their consent or permission. It includes the intention to convert it to their own use. In California, theft crimes are divided into two categories; petty theft and grand theft or larceny. Petty theft applies to amounts less than $400 and grand theft is for amounts of over $400.

Whether they are charged as misdemeanors or felonies depend on various factors, which can include the skill of a Long Beach criminal defense attorney.

Petty theft is usually treated as a misdemeanor. It carries with it a fine of up to $1000 or time in the county jail of up to 6 months, or both. If you are arrested for a second petty theft, it can be punished as a felony. In this instance, a petty theft can result in a maximum of one year in jail or a state prison. If an individual is convicted of grand theft, they face a fine up to $1000 and up to 1 year in the country jail or state prison. Prior convictions and certain circumstance can make the penalties substantially higher, such as 4 years in state prison.

Can crimes of theft be defended?

Theft crimes may be charged in conjunction with other violations, such as forgery, check fraud and embezzlement. Additionally, if a person has prior criminal convictions, a theft charge may invoke the three strikes rule in California. These can all cause stiffer fines and penalties for a defendant. Attorney Leonard Matsuk has 3 decades of experience in and around Long Beach and has tried over 300 cases before judges and juries. He would like to bring his successful experience to bear in your case.

There are ways to win against theft crimes charges. If you were actually given consent to use the property in question, this may be a viable defense on your behalf. Another legal defense can occur if you believed, in good faith, that you actually owned the property that was allegedly stolen. In certain cases, the individual simply did not take the property they are accused of taking. Act now to get the best possible outcome for your case.

Contact a Long Beach Theft Defense Attorney when you or a loved one are accused of any theft crime and require competent and aggressive legal help.

Our Victories

Take a look at our most recent wins!
  • Informal Probation Client Accused of Attempting to Carry a Gun on an Aircraft
  • No Jail Time or Probation Client Arrested for Fraud in Federal Sting Operation
  • Charges Reduced Client Charged in Federal Court with Multiple Counts of Drug Sales
  • No Time in Custody & No Probation Client Charged with Conspiring to Sell Marijuana
  • Case Dismissed Client Charged with Assault with a Deadly Weapon
  • Charges Dismissed Client Charged with Battery on a Police Officer
  • Charges Dismissed Client Charged with Child Endangerment
  • Not Guilty Client Charged with Robbery After Police Chase
  • Not Guilty Client Accused of Assaulting a Victim Inside Their Home
  • Case Dismissed Father of Three Accused of Child Abuse

Our Testimonials

Hear from our former clients about their experience with the Law Office of Leonard Matsuk. We are proud to protect the rights of the accused and be their trusted advocates in their time of need. Experienced and knowledgeable in a wide range of case types, we are prepared to defend you.
  • “Truly the best Attorney”

    Karey

  • “I will always be grateful for Leonard Matsuk”

    Sally

  • “Gets the job done!”

    Former Client

  • “We can't Thank Leonard enough!”

    Karey

  • “He can help in a big way”

    Jac

  • “I hope you help change the lives of many more young men”

    Justin

  • “Very fast and was kept updated step by step through the processes.”

    Samer

  • “You have been amazing through this process”

    K.K.

  • “Call Mr. Matsuk”

    Former Client

  • “His expertise is best seen in the courtroom.”

    Jax

  • “I would highly recommend Mr. Matsuk.”

    Yaqui

  • “I can say thankful the issue was resolved with the BEST possible outcome.”

    Josh

  • “I highly recommend Mr. Matsuk for any complicated issue.”

    Trudy

  • “Thanks for a job well done.”

    Tom

  • “I would refer anyone to Mr. Matsuk.”

    Marshall