Santa Rosa Theft Lawyer

Skilled Theft Attorney in Santa Rosa, CA

Theft crimes cover a wide range of unlawful activities, from shoplifting to grand larceny to carjacking. Whether you’ve been accused of a white-collar theft crime, such as embezzlement or identity theft, or a violent offense like robbery, you should consult a qualified and experienced Santa Rosa theft lawyer.

No matter how minor or simple your situation may seem, it is wise to have a criminal defense professional on your side.

When to Hire a Theft Lawyer in California?

In California, the rate of property crime in 2024 was 2,084 per 100,000 people, which was a 9.9 percent decrease from the previous year. In 2023, approximately 65 percent of property crimes were larcenies, 15 percent were burglaries, and 20 percent were auto thefts.

The Law Office of Jonathan Steele is well-versed in Santa Rosa theft laws. We regularly handle:

• Identity theft: The use of another individual’s personal information for fraudulent purposes.
• Petty theft: Taking property that belongs to someone else that amounts to no more than $950.
• Grand theft: Taking of property that belongs to another person and is valued at more than $950.
• Shoplifting: The theft of property belonging to a store or other commercial establishment while it is open and during regular business hours.
• Vehicle theft: Also known as carjacking, this is the taking of a motor vehicle belonging to another person while in their immediate presence. The theft must also involve the use of force or fear.
• Embezzlement: The misappropriation of funds or property entrusted to one’s care for personal gain. This is often seen among employees handling business funds.
• Robbery: The taking of someone else’s personal property using force or fear. The property must be physically taken off the person or while in their immediate presence.
• Burglary: Entering a building or residence with the intent to commit theft or another felony.

Work With a Santa Rosa Theft Attorney

It’s a good idea to hire a theft lawyer to receive legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances. California theft laws can be challenging to navigate by yourself. With the help of a qualified professional, you can feel confident about reaching a favorable outcome in your case.

A skilled defense attorney understands how to build a strong and compelling case on your behalf. When looking for a capable attorney for your theft case, look no further than the Law Office of Jonathan Steele. We are a criminal defense firm based in Santa Rosa, and our attorneys have nearly 80 years of combined legal experience. We pride ourselves on keeping our clients fully informed while we work for them.

We are always ready to offer each client reassurance, explaining their options so they feel confident in their legal representation. With extensive trial experience and a personalized, client-focused approach, our legal team is ready to help. We have assisted many in the Santa Rose area who found themselves in situations similar to yours and are prepared to advise you, too.

Where Are Theft Crime Cases Handled?

A theft case in Santa Rosa is most likely to be handled by the Sonoma County Superior Court system. The county’s main Hall of Justice is located at 600 Administration Drive in Santa Rosa. The exact courthouse that oversees criminal proceedings may vary depending on where the alleged offense occurred, the nature of the crime, as well as other relevant details. Your attorney can direct you where you need to be.

FAQs

What Is Considered a Theft Crime in California?

In California, a theft crime is considered to be the unlawful act of someone taking property belonging to another person with the intention of permanently depriving them of that property. Theft is also known as larceny.

Common types of theft offenses include identity theft, petty and grand theft, carjacking, shoplifting, embezzlement, burglary, and robbery. Even if you didn’t knowingly steal someone else’s property, you may be accused of theft, so it’s important to consult a lawyer when arrested.

What Are the Penalties for Theft in California?

If convicted of theft in the state of California, the legal penalties can vary quite a bit depending on the case details. Common penalties for theft include paying large fines, mandatory restitution to the victim, and serving jail or prison time. Your attorney can help you understand the penalties you may face.

Repeat offenders typically face harsher penalties. In addition to penalties, a conviction on your record can make finding affordable housing, pursuing employment options, and obtaining loans more difficult.

Can a Theft Conviction Be Expunged in California?

In the state of California, it is possible for certain theft convictions to be expunged. Expungement is the legal process of effectively erasing a criminal record from public view, meaning anyone who runs a background check on you won’t see it.

To qualify for expungement, you typically must meet several conditions, such as completing your sentence and having no pending criminal charges. Be sure to ask your defense lawyer about whether your theft conviction may be eligible for expungement.

Can You Defend Against a Theft Charge in California?

Yes, you can defend against a theft charge in California, and your strongest chance of doing so is with an attorney’s help. Depending on the circumstances of your case, your lawyer can employ several defense strategies. Common defense arguments include asserting that it is a case of mistaken identity, the accusations are false, claiming entrapment, or that the defendant’s actions were done to prevent greater harm. You can ask your attorney what defense may be ideal in your case.

Consult an Experienced Theft Defense Lawyer

At the Law Office of Jonathan Steele, our team of legal professionals is compassionate, resourceful, and dedicated to guiding you through the criminal justice process. Reach out to us today to schedule an initial meeting with a capable and skilled theft defense attorney. We can review the details of your case before discussing what legal options are available to you. After answering any questions you may have, an experienced lawyer can guide you through the next steps.