A Robbery Lawyer San Francisco CA Residents Trust Explains the Penalties for Theft
Theft is a very broad category which includes multiple specific crimes, including larceny, burglary, embezzlement, false pretenses, and theft of lost property. Theft is defined as the wrongful assumption of someone else’s property with the intention of permanently depriving the person of their property.
If you have been accused of a theft crime in San Mateo County, you may want to hire a robbery lawyer. The professionals at Morales Law Firm will speak with you about your defenses, rights, and legal ramifications. The criminal defense lawyers at Morales Law Firm have over 25 years of experience in theft cases and will work to ensure your rights are being upheld.
What Are Common Examples of Theft?
Depending on what was stolen and how much it was worth, theft can be divided into two categories: felonies and misdemeanors. In most states, if the stolen property’s value is over $400 it would be considered a felony. If the property’s value was $400 or less, it is considered a misdemeanor. Some examples of common theft crimes in San Mateo County are:
- Automobile Theft: These are crimes that involve taking someone else’s vehicle. The most common types are carjacking and grand theft auto.
- Petty Theft: Petty theft is typically a misdemeanor. It is when low-value goods and services or a small amount of cash is stolen. Shoplifting is the most common type of petty theft.
- Cyber Theft: Cyber theft is when someone uses a computer to steal personal and confidential information or financial records. Most commonly this is used for identity theft.
- Identity Theft: Identity theft is the act of using someone’s name, Social Security number, address, credit card, or other personal information to commit a different crime without their knowledge.
- Extortion: Extortion is a felony in every state. This is when someone obtains money or property after threatening to ruin the victim’s reputation or to perform physical harm.
Theft Penalties
Penalties and sentencing for theft crimes involve two different consequences: a jail sentence and/or criminal fines. The severity of the crime will decide the length of the sentence and the amount of the fine. If the crime is more serious, it will result in longer jail sentences and higher fines. If a theft crime is classified as a felony, the defendant could have to spend their sentence in prison rather than a jail.
Since theft refers to a wide variety of crimes, sentencing and penalties for theft can vary greatly depending on the case. Jail sentences and penalties are usually pre-determined for a criminal case. With that being said, courts are able to consider the following items when deciding what the sentence will be for a theft-related case:
- Value and type of stolen property
- The criminal background of the defendant
- If threats of violence, violence, or force were used during the act
While all three of these are considered by the court, the value of the property is usually seen as the most important when deciding on a theft sentence.
5 Things to Look for in a Robbery Lawyer in San Francisco, CA
Being arrested and going through a criminal trial are likely to be the most challenging and stressful times of your life. Therefore, it is essential to have representation that you trust and respect on your side. However, while finding appropriate counsel may be on a stringent timeline, it is necessary not to rush the decision. Make a calculated and unbiased decision based on at least five factors.
- Communication
The main attribute of any successful attorney should be their ability to communicate effectively. Robbery lawyers in San Francisco, CA must share information in a way that is constructive, understandable and relatable to you, the jury and a judge. Therefore, when searching for representation, make sure that any attorney you select can communicate the issues of your case in terms you understand and in an approachable way.
- Experience
Experience is another element to factor into your selection. A criminal attorney is a particular type of lawyer, and they have the wherewithal to be at home in criminal proceedings. Hiring a personal injury lawyer to defend you in a criminal case is not the best decision. While all lawyers understand the judicial process, the process does vary depending on the discipline. Therefore, hire an attorney with experience in criminal law and preferably with your type of case.
- Team Support
While an individual attorney may be impressive, it is vital to understand the kind of team support that they will receive during your case. Do they have co-counsel and paralegals to help with the workload and to sort through discovery? All lawyers need assistance, and it is beneficial to know what type of help will be offered to your prospective robbery lawyer in San Francisco, CA, so you don’t worry about their burnout.
- Reputation
Another issue to factor in is reputation. Lookup potential attorneys. Read reviews about them and search the local bar association to find any discrepancies or causes for concern. Is the lawyer known for having a bad attitude? Do they have several disciplinary actions pending against them? Verify reputation before considering signing a contract.
- Confident and Knowledgeable
Lastly, schedule a consultation with your potential candidates to assess knowledge and confidence. You want a lawyer who is in control, and who can answer your questions or concerns thoroughly and without hesitation. However, you also want a robbery lawyer in San Francisco, CA who is comfortable and personable.
A looming criminal trial can be overwhelming and terrifying. It is essential to feel confident in your chosen representation. Therefore, if you are seeking out a criminal defense attorney, then explore local law firms and find someone who exemplifies the five above factors and attributes.
Were You Charged with Burglary, Theft, or Robbery?
Turn to a Robbery Lawyer San Francisco Offers for Protection of Your Rights
Burglary and robbery charges in San Francisco should always be taken seriously. A robbery lawyer from The Morales Law Firm may be able to get your charges significantly reduced or even dismissed. We have successfully handled thousands of burglary, theft, and robbery cases. We draw on our depth of experience and background in criminal law to protect the rights of our clients.
Burglary, Theft, Or Robbery Charges in San Francisco, California
There are three degrees, or levels, associated with these types of criminal charges. No matter the specifics of your criminal charge, you can choose to hire legal representation by a robbery lawyer from our firm.
First Degree: First-degree occurs when a perpetrator injures either the victim or another person during the crime. Robbery in which the offender possesses a deadly weapon, or threatens the victim with a weapon, is also considered first-degree.
Second Degree: Second-degree occurs when a perpetrator commits the act with an accomplice present, or if the perpetrator causes injury to a person other than the victim. In some jurisdictions, theft of a car is automatically considered second-degree.
Third Degree: Third-degree occurs when a perpetrator uses physical force or a weapon to steal someone else’s money or property.
There are also other factors that can increase your sentence that include, but are not limited to:
- Great bodily injury: If you cause another person to suffer great bodily injury during the commission of a robbery, you can be sentenced to an additional and consecutive term of three-to-six years in state prison.
- Use of a firearm: If you use a firearm during the commission of a robbery, you can be sentenced to an additional and consecutive term of 10 years in state prison.
- Discharge of a firearm: If you personally and intentionally discharge a firearm during the commission of a robbery, you can be sentenced to an additional and consecutive term of 20 years in state prison.
- Discharge of a firearm resulting in great bodily injury or death: If you personally and intentionally discharge a firearm during the commission of a robbery, causing great bodily injury or death to another, you can be sentenced to an additional and consecutive term of 25 years to life in state prison.
Punishment
No matter the type of theft crime you were charged with, if you are convicted then the punishment will likely be severe. Fines, jail, or prison are standard punishment.
Contact a Robbery Lawyer San Francisco CA Clients Recommend
The sentencing phase of a theft trial is usually very complicated. If you are facing theft charges, you have the right to be represented by a robbery lawyer. The San Mateo County criminal defense lawyers at Morales Law Firm will work with you to provide you with advice and assistance throughout the whole process. You deserve to have someone on your side and defending your rights. Contact Morales Law Firm today for a consultation.
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