Orange County Theft Defense Lawyer

Representation in Irvine, Santa Ana, & Tustin

Theft crime charges can seriously disrupt your life, and facing the process without guidance adds unnecessary risk. As your theft defense lawyer in Orange County, Attorney Kim can:

• Review every aspect of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s claims
• Talk to prosecutors to seek reduced charges or a plea agreement
• Advocate for you in court to protect your rights and ensure your story is heard

Theft cases in Orange County courts move quickly and rely on strict local procedures. Attorneys who regularly appear in these courtrooms understand local preferences and can anticipate how prosecutors and judges will react to certain charges. Acting early gives your defense more time to prepare, address deadlines, and pursue local programs designed for theft or larceny cases.

Whether you face a misdemeanor for petty theft or a felony for burglary, solid legal representation influences the outcome at every step.

If you have been accused of theft or have reason to believe you might be, connect with Law Offices of Christian Kim right away. We have been protecting people accused of theft since 2007, bringing the experience and judgment needed to pursue a fair outcome for your situation.

If you’ve been accused of theft, don’t wait. Contact us online or call (714) 576-2935 to request a free consultation.

WE Protect Against Theft/Larceny Charges in CA

Law Offices of Christian Kim leverages two decades of hands-on experience with local legal procedures. Attorney Kim's background as a former Orange County prosecutor brings direct insight into how the Orange County Superior Court and local agencies handle these matters. Types of theft and larceny cases we regularly address include:

• Retail or commercial theft
• Auto theft
• Receiving or possessing stolen goods
• Employee theft
• Check or credit card fraud
• Shoplifting charges at stores in Irvine Spectrum Center or other local malls

Defenses & Legal Strategies 

Responding to a theft or larceny accusation requires careful review and a custom plan, which are core tenets of our practice at the Law Offices of Christian Kim. Possible defenses may focus on misidentification, lack of intent, or honest misunderstanding over ownership or permission. Depending on the circumstances, we may also investigate whether law enforcement followed proper procedures during searches, questioning, and investigations by police.

Each case has distinct facts, and courts apply California law and regional legal standards to weigh the evidence. Attorneys scrutinize police reports, witness accounts, and surveillance when building a case. By exposing weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s evidence, we can effectively challenge the accusations against you. 

Common defense strategies we may consider:

• Insufficient evidence
• Improper identification by witnesses or security personnel
• Consent or an honest belief that you had the right to possess the property
• Mistaken facts or lack of criminal intent
• Violation of legal rights during investigation or detention

Effective defense work in Irvine and Orange County requires understanding both the legal nuances and how area judges and prosecutors typically view each case. This local insight can make a difference during every stage—from arraignment to negotiations or trial.

What Your Theft Charges Mean

Theft laws in California cover a broad range of situations, each with its own risks and legal consequences. In Irvine, common charges include theft by false pretenses, receiving stolen property, credit card fraud, and identity theft. These cases may begin with incidents at local stores, retail centers, or even on college campuses. Law enforcement throughout Orange County investigates these offenses, and prosecutors can bring either misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the allegations and the accused person's prior record.

Petty Theft vs. Grand Theft

Theft (also called larceny) means intentionally taking someone else’s property from their possession. This includes many actions, from stealing physical property or money to taking the value of a service. It also covers failing to return property that was borrowed from the owner.

• Petty Theft refers to taking property valued at less than $950. A petty theft conviction can mean a $1,000 fine, six months of jail, or both.
• Grand Theft involves taking property over $950 in value. A conviction can result in up to one year in jail, or up to three years for felony-level charges.

Convictions for larceny in areas like Irvine or surrounding Orange County communities can lead to consequences that go beyond fines or jail time. Having a theft record may make it tougher to obtain a job, professional licensing, and/or local housing. In some situations, a conviction may also limit access to government programs.

Types of Theft Offenses

• Shoplifting: Outlined in Penal Code 459.5, shoplifting involves entering a commercial establishment during business hours, with the intent to steal property worth $950 or less. Shoplifting is generally charged as a misdemeanor.
• Burglary: As defined in Penal Code 459, burglary involves unlawfully entering a structure to commit theft or another felony.
  • First-Degree Burglary: Involves a residence and is always a felony.
  • Second-Degree Burglary: Involves a commercial property and may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
• Robbery: Under Penal Code 211, robbery involves taking property directly from someone through force or fear. The state always treats this as a felony.
• Embezzlement: Penal Code 503 defines embezzlement as unlawfully taking money or items entrusted to you, often from an employer.