We see it all too often: a person is charged with a “minor” theft crime just as petty theft, and they believe that this charge does not require the help of a criminal defense attorney. Keep reading to learn why this could be a huge mistake. If you are facing charges of theft, contact Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 now to request a free legal consultation.

The Long-Term Consequences Could Be More Serious Than You Think

Petty theft is the act of stealing cash or goods that are worth less than $950. While this is a misdemeanor charge that, at first glance, might seem to come with minimal legal consequences, remember that if you plead guilty, you will have a theft conviction on your record. Many employers and landlords require criminal background checks, and few would look kindly on a history of theft, even if it was a “minor” theft.

We Understand the Nuances of These Charges

There are numerous ways you can be charged with petty theft: by larceny, by embezzlement, by fraud, or by trick. Depending on how you are charged, the prosecution will have different elements to prove. When you work with Simmons Wagner, LLP, you are working with a team of lawyers that understands even the smallest nuances of these cases and know how to attack weak points in the evidence and arguments against you.

There Are Special Options for First-Time Offenders

If you have never been convicted of a crime, then there are creative sentencing options that could keep a charge from appearing on your record. However, you are unlikely to find these options without the help of an attorney. We can use our many years of experience to find an optimal solution for you that will work for the prosecution, too.

Beware of Petty Theft with Prior Charges

If you have been convicted of certain sex crimes, a theft crime against an elder, or a serious felony, then you could end up facing petty theft with a prior. This can be charged as a felony and can lead to significant jail time. The good news is that it is not automatically a felony, and we can work to convince the prosecutor to charge it as a misdemeanor to minimize the consequences to you.

Contact Us Now for a Free Legal Consultation

Are you ready to learn about the best way we can help you? Contact Simmons Wagner, LLP at (949) 439-5857 for a free legal consultation. We can go over the basics of the case, find the right defense options, and provide you with the legal advice and peace of mind you need.