Many people assume theft charges are minor because the property is relatively low-value. In reality, a theft conviction can continue affecting your life long after the criminal case ends.
Potential consequences include:
- Jail or probation
- Court fines and restitution
- A permanent criminal record
- Immigration consequences
- Professional licensing issues
- Difficulty obtaining employment or housing
- Damage to your personal and professional reputation
Because theft is considered a crime involving dishonesty, employers and licensing boards often view these convictions differently than many other misdemeanor offenses.
Theft Crimes We Defend
Our attorneys defend clients charged with a broad range of California theft offenses.
Misdemeanor Theft Offenses
- Shoplifting (PC §459.5)
- Petty Theft (PC §§484, 488)
- Theft of Services
- Employee Theft
Felony Theft & Property Crimes
- Grand Theft (PC §487)
- Burglary (PC §459)
- Robbery (PC §211)
- Receiving Stolen Property (PC §496)
- Auto Theft (Vehicle Code §10851)
Complex Theft Allegations
- Organized retail theft
- Multiple-theft investigations
- Prior theft convictions
- Identity-related theft allegations
- False accusations and mistaken identity
Penalties for Theft in Fresno
The penalties depend on the value of the property involved, the circumstances of the allegations, and whether prosecutors pursue misdemeanor or felony charges.
Examples include:
- Petty Theft / Shoplifting: Up to six months in county jail.
- Grand Theft: Up to three years in county jail or state prison.
- Burglary: Up to six years in state prison, depending on the degree.
- Robbery: Three, four, or six years in state prison.
- Receiving Stolen Property: Up to three years in county jail or state prison.
Many first-time offenders qualify for alternatives that avoid incarceration. Depending on the facts, outcomes may include dismissal, diversion, reduced charges, or probation instead of jail.
How We Defend Theft Cases
Every theft allegation deserves a careful review of the evidence—not simply acceptance of the police report.
Our attorneys commonly challenge:
- Surveillance footage that fails to establish criminal intent
- Unreliable eyewitness identifications
- Mistaken identity
- Incomplete loss-prevention investigations
- Unlawful detentions or searches
- Inconsistent witness statements
- Allegations that overstate the value of the property
- Felony charges unsupported by the available evidence
By exposing weaknesses early, we're often able to negotiate dismissals, reductions, diversion, or other favorable resolutions.
Why Choose Michael & Associates?
Michael & Associates is built exclusively around experienced criminal defense attorneys.
When you hire our firm, you'll receive:
Senior Trial Attorneys
Your case is handled by an experienced attorney, never a junior associate learning on the job. Your attorney will see your case through the entire process from start to finish.
Thorough Investigation
We independently review surveillance video, witness statements, police reports, and physical evidence rather than relying solely on the prosecution's version of events.
Personalized Representation
We intentionally maintain manageable caseloads so every client receives the time and attention their case deserves.
Exceptional Client Service
We pride ourselves on responsive communication, honest advice, and keeping clients informed throughout every stage of the case.
Transparent Flat Fees
After reviewing your case, we'll provide a clear flat-fee quote with no surprise hourly billing.
Trial-Ready Defense
Whether negotiating with prosecutors or presenting your case before a jury, we're always preparing for the strongest possible outcome.
What Happens After You Hire Us?
Our work begins immediately.
We will:
- Review police reports and available evidence
- Preserve surveillance footage before it disappears
- Conduct an independent investigation
- Identify legal and factual defenses
- Challenge unlawful searches or detentions
- Negotiate aggressively with prosecutors
- Prepare every case for trial when necessary
We also assist clients with bail, warrant issues, and emergency legal guidance following an arrest.
Theft Crime Trends in Fresno County
Theft remains one of the most frequently investigated property crimes in Fresno County. Retail theft, vehicle theft, employee theft, and organized retail crime continue to receive significant attention from local law enforcement and prosecutors.
As retailers expand surveillance technology and loss-prevention operations, theft investigations increasingly rely on security video, electronic transaction records, cell phone data, and digital evidence. While these tools can be valuable, they don't always tell the complete story. Our attorneys carefully examine every piece of evidence to determine whether prosecutors can actually prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Sources: Michael & Associates research; California Penal Code (§§211, 459, 459.5, 484, 487, 488, 496); California Vehicle Code §10851; Fresno County Superior Court; Fresno County District Attorney's Office; Fresno Police Department.
