Theft is among the most frequently prosecuted offenses in California, and even seemingly minor accusations can lead to life-changing consequences. If you’ve been charged or are under investigation for any type of theft offense, you need a knowledgeable and dedicated theft crime lawyer in Hayward to defend your rights, your reputation, and your freedom.
A theft conviction can carry more than fines or jail time. It may appear on background checks, limit employment prospects, and interfere with housing or professional licensing opportunities.
At Silver Law Firm, we understand how much is at stake when you’re accused of a theft-related crime. Call us today for a free consultation with a Hayward criminal defense lawyer.
Understanding Theft Charges Under California Law
California law defines theft broadly, covering a wide range of conduct, from taking an item from a store shelf to complex financial schemes involving misappropriated funds.
The penalties and charges depend on several key factors, including the value of the property, the nature of the alleged theft, and the circumstances surrounding the act.
While theft statutes might appear clear-cut, an experienced Hayward theft crime attorney can often use those same distinctions to your advantage. Depending on the situation, your attorney may argue for a charge reduction, dismissal, or an alternative sentence such as probation, restitution, or a diversion program.
At Silver Law Firm, we handle every type of theft-related offense, from minor shoplifting to major white-collar crimes.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting occurs when someone enters an open business intending to steal merchandise valued under $950. Generally, this is charged as a misdemeanor, but aggravating factors, such as prior convictions or higher property values, can increase the severity of the offense.
Our Hayward theft crime attorneys investigate every angle of a shoplifting case. We review surveillance footage, cross-check witness accounts, and examine whether law enforcement or store security followed proper procedure. Even small procedural errors can weaken the prosecution’s argument and open the door for reduced charges or dismissal.
Petty Theft and Grand Theft
The distinction between petty and grand theft primarily depends on the property’s value. Petty theft applies to property worth less than $950, while grand theft involves items valued at $950 or more. Grand theft may be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, which can dramatically affect your record and potential penalties.
At our firm, we scrutinize the details of your case. Was the property value properly appraised? Did you have permission to use the item? Was there confusion about ownership or intent? These details matter.
Our attorneys often uncover critical discrepancies that can lead to reduced penalties or complete dismissal of the charges.
Burglary
Burglary charges arise when a person enters a structure, vehicle, or dwelling intending to commit theft or another felony. You can be charged even if nothing was actually stolen. The mere intent is enough under California law.
The law distinguishes between first-degree burglary (of a residence) and second-degree burglary (of a business or non-residential building). Both are felonies that carry the possibility of significant prison time.
Our Hayward theft crime lawyers analyze police reports, forensic evidence, and witness statements to challenge the prosecution’s claim that you intended to commit a crime.
Robbery
Robbery is one of the most serious theft-related offenses, as it involves the use of force or fear to take property directly from another person. Robbery is always charged as a felony and is aggressively prosecuted throughout Alameda County.
First-degree robbery typically involves victims in their homes, drivers, or individuals near ATMs, while second-degree robbery covers all other contexts.
Our team meticulously evaluates every piece of evidence, looking for inconsistencies, coercion, or violations of your constitutional rights, to build the strongest possible defense.
Embezzlement
Embezzlement occurs when someone entrusted with another person’s property or funds uses that trust for personal gain. These cases often arise in workplaces, financial institutions, or fiduciary settings. Depending on the amount involved, embezzlement can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Our Hayward theft crime lawyers are highly experienced in defending complex financial crime allegations. We conduct a detailed review of financial records, correspondence, and digital evidence to uncover inconsistencies or misunderstandings that may have led to false accusations.
Fraud
Fraud encompasses a wide range of deceptive activities meant to obtain money, property, or benefits. Common examples include credit card fraud, check fraud, mortgage fraud, and insurance fraud. These cases often involve sophisticated documentation and expert analysis.
Our theft crime attorneys in Hayward collaborate with forensic accountants and investigators to dissect the prosecution’s financial narrative.
Many fraud cases stem from clerical mistakes, miscommunications, or civil disputes rather than intentional deception. Our defense strategies focus on exposing those distinctions to protect your name and livelihood.
Money Laundering
Money laundering involves attempting to conceal the origins of illegally obtained funds by moving them through legitimate channels, such as businesses or bank accounts. Because these cases often trigger state and federal investigations, defendants can face overlapping charges and severe penalties.
Our attorneys are well-versed in handling multi-agency investigations involving the FBI, IRS, and state authorities. We understand both California and federal court procedures and work tirelessly to ensure that your constitutional rights are upheld at every stage of the process.
Forgery and Identity Theft
Forgery and identity theft involve falsifying documents or using another person’s information for financial or personal gain. These offenses have become increasingly common in the digital age, and innocent individuals are frequently targeted due to identity theft or data breaches.
Our team understands the technology behind these allegations. We analyze data trails, IP logs, and electronic evidence to demonstrate when clients are victims of fraud rather than perpetrators.
For a free legal consultation with a Criminal Defense lawyer serving Hayward, call (510) 995-0000
State vs. Federal Theft Charges
Most theft offenses in Hayward are prosecuted under California state law in the Alameda County Superior Court. However, certain theft cases can escalate to the federal level.
You may face federal prosecution if:
- The alleged offense occurred on federal property or involved federal funds
- The victim was a government agency or an international organization
- The alleged conduct crossed state lines (for example, via online transactions or wire transfers)
- Federal authorities such as the FBI, Secret Service, or IRS were involved in the investigation
Federal criminal cases follow different procedures and often carry harsher penalties than state prosecutions. If you’re facing potential federal theft charges, it’s essential to work with an attorney who understands both jurisdictions. Our team provides the experience and strategic insight required to handle these challenging cases.
Hayward Theft Crime Lawyer Near Me (510) 995-0000
Building a Strong Defense: How a Theft Crime Attorney in Hayward Can Help
Facing a theft accusation can be frightening, stressful, and overwhelming. However, it’s crucial to remember that being accused of a crime does not mean you’re guilty. You have constitutional rights, and with the right legal representation, you can protect your freedom and your future.
Our attorneys carefully review every piece of evidence, from police reports to surveillance footage, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We challenge unlawful searches, question the reliability of witnesses, and expose procedural errors that could invalidate the state’s evidence.
Common defenses to theft charges include:
- Lack of intent: You did not intend to steal or permanently deprive the owner of property.
- Consent: The alleged victim gave you permission to use or borrow the property.
- Mistaken identity: You were wrongly identified as the suspect.
- Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Clerical or accounting errors: Especially in white-collar cases, inaccurate documentation can make innocent conduct appear criminal.
If the evidence against you appears strong, we may focus on mitigation. Our team can seek reduced penalties, community service, or diversion programs that help you avoid incarceration and preserve your record.
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Contact a Theft Crime Lawyer Serving Hayward Today
If you’ve been accused of theft in Hayward, acting quickly is crucial. Early intervention by a skilled defense lawyer can dramatically affect the outcome of your case. At Silver Law Firm, we offer personalized, results-driven representation.
Whether we’re negotiating with prosecutors or presenting your defense in court, we are committed to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible result for your situation.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Call us today or reach out online for a free consultation with an experienced Hayward theft crime attorney.
Call or text (510) 995-0000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
