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Turner Law

Defending The Rights Of Clients Throughout San Diego County Since 1999

Theft Attorney in San Diego

Last updated on April 10, 2025

Most forms of theft are a specific kind of property crime. Depriving someone of their financial resources through fraud is illegal, just like it is illegal to remove merchandise from a retail shop without paying for it first. Most criminal charges involving theft relate to the property taken. For example, in shoplifting cases, the value of the items taken will determine the severity of the charges and the possible penalties. There is one form of theft offense that does not necessarily require proof that someone took anything to charge them with a crime.

Fight back against theft charges with experienced theft defense attorney Greg Turner of Turner Law. He helps people throughout the San Diego metro fight all kinds of theft charges, such as:

Mr. Turner knows that intent to steal must be proven for a conviction to take place. That is why he fully investigates the evidence and details in every case, building a plan of action so he can aggressively defend a client in court. Need legal help? Call 619-436-4502 or email us 24/7. We provide a military discount to veterans or active military members.

Petty Theft or Grand Theft? The Value of The Items Determines the Charges

For the most part, the main consideration when the state decides what criminal charges to bring against someone for a property offense is the value of the items involved. The greater the combined value of the property, the more serious the charges and consequences.

Once the property reaches a value of $950, the charges increase from petty theft and grand theft. However, certain kinds of property can also lead to more serious theft charges. If you steal just $250 worth of citrus fruits, olives, domestic fowl or other agricultural crops, that could constitute grand theft.  The same is true of fish, shellfish and other aquacultural products.

The theft of a firearm, regardless of its value, is always grand theft. The same is true of a vehicle or anything stolen directly from another person. Even if the value of these items is nowhere near the grand theft cutoff amount, the state could still pursue grand theft charges. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation. We provide a military discount.

Grand Theft Unveiled: Facing Felony Charges And Building A Defense

Grand theft involves the unlawful taking of property with a value above a specified threshold, typically over $1,000. In many jurisdictions, grand theft is categorized as a felony carrying severe consequences. Individuals accused of grand theft face potential imprisonment, hefty fines and a lasting criminal record. Our skilled defense lawyer at Turner Law, focuses on navigating grand theft cases, strategically approaching each defense to protect our client’s rights. If you are facing grand theft charges, our experienced attorney is here to provide diligent representation, seeking the most favorable outcome for your case.

Theft By Embezzlement: Navigating The Complex Financial Web

The intricate realm of theft by embezzlement delves into the misuse of entrusted funds, requiring a comprehensive understanding of financial intricacies. This white collar crime often unfolds in positions of trust, where individuals with access to financial resources divert them for personal gain. Prosecutors must establish a breach of trust and demonstrate the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner.

Successfully defending against theft by embezzlement charges demands a meticulous examination of financial records. Our embezzlement defense attorney at Turner Law, scrutinizes intricate transactions, seeking potential discrepancies or misunderstandings that could cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. By delving deep into the financial details, we aim to build a strategic defense that challenges the allegations and protects your rights.

Crafting A Tailored Defense For Embezzlement Crimes

Every embezzlement case is unique, necessitating a personalized defense strategy. Our experienced attorney works closely with clients to understand the specific circumstances surrounding the charges. This in-depth analysis allows us to tailor our defense, addressing the intricacies of each case and seeking the most favorable outcome. Whether it’s highlighting procedural errors, questioning intent or challenging the evidence, we explore every avenue to secure the most favorable resolution for our clients.

Facing charges of theft by embezzlement is a daunting experience, but with our dedicated legal representation, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the legal system. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation. We provide a military discount.

Burglary Charges in California

Although the average person thinks of burglary as theft from a home or a business after hours, the state definition is different than what you might expect. California law defines burglary as the act of illegally accessing someone else’s property with the intention of committing a crime. You can also be charged with burglary without stealing anything.

Obviously, someone who breaks into a house by smashing a window with the intention of stealing money and electronics from the property could face burglary charges. Those who illegally enter a property or business with the intent of committing another crime, like assault or corporate espionage, could also face burglary charges under current California law.

Having a weapon in your possession at the time you illegally seek access to someone else’s property could aggravate the charges against you and increase the possible penalties.

The exact circumstances that led to your arrest will influence the best defense in your case. If all the prosecution has is one grainy photograph of the alleged burglar, you may be able to challenge their identification of you as the burglar and even provide an alibi for the time that the offense likely occurred.

If police officers encountered you someplace you didn’t have the legal right to be, there could be a very simple explanation, such as following directions to somebody’s house and making the wrong turn somewhere. Reviewing the evidence against you and learning more about state law can help you determine the best defense strategy when facing theft or burglary charges. Have you been charged with burglary? Call 619-436-4502 24/7 for a consultation. We provide a military discount.

Theft Code & Penalties

California Penal Code § 484 deals with theft. It outlines various forms of theft, including larceny, embezzlement, false pretenses, and theft by trick. The code defines these acts as unlawfully taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of it. A conviction for theft of property that is below $950 in value is petty theft. The penalty for this conviction is up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000. A sentence for taking more valuable property is called grand theft. It can result in up to three years in jail for a felony-level conviction.

Avoiding Theft Conviction

Whether you face a petty theft or robbery charge, at Turner Law, we believe that just because you may have made a mistake in judgment does not mean you are a bad person. Theft defense lawyer Greg Turner will listen to your situation and explain the options you have to move forward with your case.

Start Your Defense Today

If you face a theft charge, the time to start your defense is now. Make an initial consultation with Turner Law, by calling 619-436-4502 or contact us online. We proudly offer a military discount.