Even a first-time theft charge can result in:
- Jail time or probation
- Fines and restitution
- A permanent criminal record
- Immigration consequences
- Loss of professional licenses
- Long-term employment and housing issues
Theft Crimes We Defend in Los Angeles
California law covers a wide range of theft offenses. We defend all types, including:
Misdemeanor Theft
- Shoplifting (PC §459.5)
- Petty theft (PC §484/§488)
- Theft of services
Felony & Serious Property Crimes
- Grand theft (PC §487)
- Burglary (PC §459)
- Robbery (PC §211)
- Receiving stolen property (PC §496)
- Auto theft (PC §10851)
Special Circumstances
- Prior theft convictions
- Alleged “intent to resell.”
- False accusations or mistaken identity
Penalties for Theft in Los Angeles
Penalties depend on the value of the property and whether prosecutors file the case as a misdemeanor or felony:
- Petty theft / Shoplifting: Up to 6 months in county jail
- Grand theft: Up to 3 years in county jail or state prison
- Burglary: Up to 6 years in state prison
- Robbery: 3, 4, or 6 years in state prison
- Receiving stolen property: Up to 3 years
The good news: With the right defense, many theft cases avoid jail entirely and often end in dismissals, reductions, or diversion.
How We Beat Theft Charges in Los Angeles
LA theft cases often rely on incomplete or unreliable evidence. We attack every weakness to create leverage for a dismissal or reduction:
- Unreliable video: Surveillance rarely shows intent — the core requirement in most theft cases.
- Mistaken identity: Loss-prevention errors and unclear video are common.
- Lack of intent: Accidental possession, confusion, or misunderstandings do not equal theft.
- Illegal detentions or searches: Violations by store security or police can lead to suppressed evidence.
- Conflicting reports: Inconsistent statements and missing receipts undermine the case.
- Overcharging: Prosecutors often allege grand theft or burglary when the facts don’t support it.
These strategies often lead to dismissals, civil compromise, reductions, diversion programs, or no-jail outcomes.
Why Choose Michael & Associates
We are a white-glove criminal defense firm built entirely on senior-level trial attorneys. With us, you get:
Experienced Attorneys Only
When you hire us, you work directly with a senior Los Angeles theft lawyer — not a junior associate or someone learning on the job.
Deep Knowledge of LA Courts
We handle cases in every major courthouse, including DTLA, Van Nuys, LAX Airport Court, Compton, Long Beach, Pasadena, East LA, Burbank, Glendale, and Inglewood. We know how each court — and each prosecutor — actually works.
Low Caseloads
We take on fewer cases so we can focus on yours. That means we have the time to dig into every detail: video, reports, loss-prevention statements, and witness accounts.
Five-Star Service
We’re committed to providing white-glove customer service. Expect fast communication, clear updates, and straightforward, honest guidance from start to finish.
Fixed Pricing
After reviewing your case, we’ll give you a single flat fee. No hourly billing, no surprise add-ons — just transparent pricing so you know exactly what to expect.
Proven Results
We’re known for getting charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved strategically in ways that protect your record and your future.
What to Expect When You Hire Us
- Free consultation with a senior Los Angeles theft lawyer
- Immediate review of reports, video, and witness statements
- Independent investigation into what actually happened
- Strategic motions to suppress evidence or challenge the detention
- Aggressive negotiation or trial-ready representation
- Clear, consistent communication throughout your case
We also assist with bail, protective orders, and emergency guidance after an arrest.
Recent Los Angeles Theft & Property-Crime Data
With tens of thousands of theft reports and arrests every year, the odds that someone you know — or even you — could face theft charges are significant.
- 11,945 reported shoplifting incidents in LA during 2023 — an 81% increase over the previous year.
- In 2023, the combined “property crimes” category (thefts, burglaries, motor-vehicle theft, theft-from-vehicle) totaled 109,025 incidents citywide.
- In 2023, recorded thefts (excluding auto theft and burglary) numbered 36,070.
- 26,827 motor-vehicle thefts (auto theft) and 30,788 theft-from-vehicles (TFMV) incidents were recorded in 2023.
Despite some fluctuations, property crime remains above pre-pandemic levels across much of Los Angeles County, with theft and auto theft cited as major drivers.
Sources: Michael & Associates research, LAPD 2024 End-of-Year Crime Statistics, LA Mayor’s Office, Public Policy Institute of California, California Penal Code (§211, 459, 459.5, 484, 487, 488, 496, 503, 530.5, 10851)
