Shoplifting & Theft

Have You Been Charged with Shoplifting, Petty Theft or Grand Theft in the San Jose Bay Area Courts?

Theft is the unlawful taking of someone else's property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property permanently. Theft may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony having serious consequences, including jail, prison, fines and restitution to the victim.The consequences of any type of theft charges could be very serious.  Most theft offenses are also considered crimes of moral turpitude and can have a significant effect on immigrants who have not naturalized.  

What are Petty Theft or Grand Theft Charges?
The crime of theft varies based on the context of the theft, the location of the crime, the value of the goods stolen, and other specifics. In general, there are two classifications of theft, based on the value of goods stolen, recognized by the criminal justice system: petty theft and grand theft. The exact value of goods at which a petty theft becomes grand theft is $400.  If aggravating circumstances were relevant to the crime or the value of stolen goods exceeds the statutory amount, the crime may be increased to a felony grand theft charge.

What are the consequences of Felony Grand Theft Charges?
A felony theft charge is considered a serious offense which is punishable by more than one year of incarceration. In general, theft crimes involving the threat or use of force and/or a weapon are considered felony offenses and can also be charged as robbery charges. 

While white-collar crimes are typically non-violent crimes, this type of theft is often regarded as a felony crime. In addition to serving jail or prison time upon conviction of a theft crime, the offender may also be required to pay a fine, serve a probation or parole term, perform community service, and more. A person who commits theft against another is often required to compensate the victim for their losses and suffering.

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