If you’ve been charged with grand theft under California Penal Code 487, it is crucial to understand the seriousness of your situation. Grand theft involves unlawfully taking property valued over $950 and can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony offense. A conviction can carry significant penalties, including jail or prison time, fines, and probation. Additionally, a conviction could seriously impact your career, reputation, and even immigration status. Do not delay in planning your defense! Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney, immediately to build a strong defense to protect your future and reputation.
Understanding Grand Theft Under California Penal Code 487
Being charged with grand theft in California is a serious matter that can carry lasting consequences. Unlike petty theft, which involves the unlawful taking of property valued under $950, grand theft refers to the unlawful taking of money, services, or property that is valued more than $950. A conviction for grand theft under California Penal Code 487 may not only result in incarceration but also have long lasting ramifications. How it is charged can also impact the criminal sentencing.
Grand Theft: A Misdemeanor or Felony Charge?
Under California law, grand theft is considered as a “wobbler” offense. This means that prosecutors have the discretion to charge the offense either as a misdemeanor or a felony. The decision typically depends on several factors, such as the value of the property taken, the circumstances of the offense, and whether the defendant has any prior criminal history.
If charged as a misdemeanor, the defendant faces up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. In misdemeanor cases, judges may be more likely to issue a lighter sentence, including probation, community service, or restitution, instead of jail time. Still, even a misdemeanor conviction for grand theft results in a permanent criminal record. However, if the offense is charged as a felony, the penalties are much more serious. A felony grand theft conviction can result in a sentence of 16 months, two years, or three years in California state prison. Additionally, a felony grand theft conviction will count as a “strike” under California’s “Three Strikes Law.” This law imposes progressively harsher penalties on repeat felony offenders. For instance, a second “strike”, or felony conviction, will automatically double the usual sentence and a third felony conviction, or third “strike” will result in a life sentence. Given the serious consequences of a felony conviction, it is absolutely vital to challenge a grand theft charge with the support of a California grand theft attorney.
Consequences Beyond Jail or Prison Time
One of the most damaging aspects of any grand theft conviction is the long-term impact it can have on your life. Beyond the immediate penalties of jail or prison time, having a theft-related offense on your record can seriously hinder your ability to secure employment, especially in fields that require trust, such as finance, law, or banking. Additionally, grand theft is considered a “crime of moral turpitude,” which is a crime that can lead to immigration related consequences. For non-citizens, this may include denial of permanent residency, being barred re-entry into the United States, or even deportation. These effects often outlast the sentence itself, leaving a lasting impact on a person’s future opportunities.
The Importance of Legal Representation in a California Grand Theft Charge
If you’ve been accused of grand theft in California, taking immediate legal action is crucial. The stakes are high, and the decision to charge your case as a misdemeanor or felony could shape the rest of your life. Having an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side can make all the difference.
At The Law Office of Nicolai Cocis, we bring over 25 years of experience in defending clients against grand theft charges. Our proven track record includes numerous cases where we’ve helped individuals avoid felony charges, thus preserving their future opportunities. Whether you’re dealing with a first-time offense, or you have a more complex legal history, we’re prepared to fight for the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today!
