Grand Theft Charges
Grand Theft Charges
Theft charges in the California criminal code are separated by the amount of property stolen (among other categories). An important dividing line is at $950 as the theft of an item valued at $950 or more is considered grand theft. The difference between petty and grand theft is crucial to understand as the elements of the crime are different and so are the penalties. This article will provide a brief overview of grand theft, but those who are accused of this should seek the immediate counsel of an experienced criminal attorney.
The Different Grand Theft Charges
Grand theft itself can also take many different forms. For example, there is grand theft by larceny. Larceny happens when the defendant committed theft by taking the victim’s physical property away from them. To prove grand theft by larceny, the prosecution must prove that the defendant took the property of another person without his or her consent. Furthermore, the defendant must have intentionally taken the property so as to keep it permanently. Other forms of grand theft include, but are not limited to, by false pretense and embezzlement.
Punishment for Grand Theft
Given that grand theft is a collection of different crimes, the punishments vary depending on the circumstances of the crime. The prosecution has the advantage in determining whether the charge should be a misdemeanor or a felony. Also, the value of the theft can add more years to sentencing if the property is worth thousands or millions of dollars. In the case of a felony, the defendant can face up to three years in jail and possible probation. Having a grand theft conviction on your record can have negative ramifications. Therefore, if you have been accused of this crime, it is best to have an attorney represent you in court.
