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Los Angeles Grand Theft Defense Attorneys 
Grand Theft
Grand theft is defined as the crime of taking someone else's property against their will, with the intent of permanently depriving them of the property. To be considered "grand theft," the total value of the property that was taken must exceed a certain dollar amount. The term "property" grand theft could include money, labor or property (real or personal) that lawfully belongs to another individual or group of individuals. Grand theft charges are extremely serious. Consequences include jail time and hefty fines. If you have been accused of grand theft, it is crucial that you are represented by an experienced and knowledgeable Los Angeles grand theft defense lawyer.
California Penal Code 487 – Grand Theft
According to California Penal Code Section 487(a), grand theft has occurred "when the money, labor, or real or personal property taken is of a value of nine hundred and fifty dollars ($950) and up." This means that someone convicted of stealing an item, for example, from a store valued at $950 or more, can be charged with grand theft. If the value of the item or items in question is under $950, only a misdemeanor charge will be applicable. While the threshold for grand theft is $950 for most items, there are exceptions.
Certain items such as firearms and motor vehicles are considered grand theft regardless of their monetary value. Additional items that do not comply with the $950 threshold but may be considered for grand theft instead of petty theft include:
- Farm crops are taken exceeding $250
- Real estate property valued over $250
- Aquacultural products are taken from a commercial operation exceeding $250
- Pets valued over $950
- Property stolen from an employer over a 12-month period of over $950
Penalties for Grand Theft
Grand theft may be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the defendant's prior criminal record. Penalties for being convicted of grand theft in California include anywhere from 16 months to three years in prison. The amount of time spent in jail may be connected to the value of the property stolen. Additional state prison sentencing may result when there is a particularly valuable property stolen. For example, if the property is worth:
- More than $65,000 then an additional year may be spent in prison
- More than $200,000 may result in two additional years in prison
- More than $1,300,000 may result in three additional years in state prison
- More than $3,200,000 may result in four additional years spent in California state prison.
Additional charges and penalties are possible when there are multiple acts of theft. The combined amount of property will be totaled to determine the charges and penalties. If you or a loved one has been charged with grand theft, please call the experienced Los Angeles theft attorneys at Takakjian & Sitkoff, LLP for a free consultation. Our skilled LA criminal defense attorneys will evaluate your case to determine your legal rights and options.
If you have been arrested for a grand theft offense then please call us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION at (888) 579-4844
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