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Theft – Shoplifting Criminal Lawyer Orange County

It's perfectly natural to think that you will never be charged with a crime. After all, how can you be charged with something you definitely did not do? Unfortunately, innocent people are arrested every day for crimes they did not commit or actions that were not unlawful. This is often the case when somebody is arrested for theft, burglary, or shoplifting. Being arrested for a theft offense can have a significant impact on your life, and could even affect your ability to get a job or obtain professional licenses. If you have been arrested on charges related to theft, such as shoplifting or commercial burglary (entering a building with the intent to steal) do not wait to contact Takakjian, Sowers & Sitkoff LLP criminal theft and shoplifting lawyers with offices throughout Orange County to defend you. Call (888) 579-4844

Theft crimes cover a broad range of offenses. Burglary, petty theft, shoplifting, identity theft, grand theft auto, embezzlement, extortion -- anything relating to taking someone's property without permission can be classified as theft. Often, theft charges can be brought about as a result of completely innocent circumstances. For instance, a shopper can forget an item in the bottom of their shopping cart and unknowingly leave the store without paying for it. Simply being charged with shoplifting can be embarrassing; being convicted can be even more humiliating. In addition, the consequences of a conviction can be devastating and far-reaching. This makes it important to choose a shoplifting lawyer in Orange County that has experience in defending people against theft charges to minimize the impact this has on your life.

While many theft arrests occur due to misunderstandings, many times charges are brought with a valid cause. People steal for a wide variety of reasons. These can include financial need, mental disorder, or for personal gain. However, even if a person knowingly steals something, there are legal options available. A skilled criminal theft lawyer in Orange County can even negotiate what is called a "civil compromise" in which the merchant can agree to drop any charges.

If a person steals due to a mental disorder or compulsion, there is help available. Your Orange County criminal lawyer can refer you to groups like Nancy Clark & Associates or BMG (Behavioral Management Group) for counseling and screening. Participating and completing such a course could reduce the severity of the charges or lessen the sentence. Mental disorders such as kleptomania can be challenging, but there is help available.

Theft charges can be classified as either misdemeanors or felonies. This can depend on the value of the item(s) in question, the location of the crime, the method used to commit the crime, the type of item stolen, proximity to the victim, and relationship to the victim. Lesser offenses such as petty theft are typically classified as misdemeanors. These theft offenses generally involve items with a value of less than $400.00 and are punishable by fines of up to $1000.00 and up to six months in jail. Cases involving items valued at more than $400.00 can be classified as felony grand theft and are punishable by county jail or state prison time and fines of up to $10,000.00 In the case of felony grand theft convictions, a mandatory jail sentence and restitution to the victim are almost always ordered as a condition of probation.

Theft charges are very serious and the effects of the conviction can be devastating. If you are arrested on charges of theft do not delay in contacting a theft and shoplifting criminal lawyer in Orange County to defend you. To find out more, visit www.attorney-criminal-dui.com. Or call (888) 579-4844 to arrange a free consultation.

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