Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Explains the Elements of Theft

Understanding the prosecution’s case

At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, one of the first steps in planning your defense is to analyze the prosecution’s case against you. Here are the elements of theft that the prosecution must prove to convict you:

  • You unlawfully took something: First, the prosecution must show that the property was taken without the owner’s consent.
  • The taken property was moved: Next, the state must prove that you moved the property and kept it for a period of time. The stolen property need be moved only a small distance and be kept only for a brief time.
  • Property of another: It is common in theft cases for the defendant to argue that the property belonged to him or her. The prosecution must prove that the property belonged to someone else.
  • You intended to deprive the owner permanently: The prosecution must prove that you intended to deprive the owner of the property permanently or for an extended period of time.

Elements of Theft

Defending against charges of theft

If you are arrested for theft in Los Angeles, contact an attorney as soon as possible. Here are some of the common defense strategies used in theft cases:

  • The item belonged to you: If the item you are accused of stealing actually belongs to you, there was no theft.
  • You had consent to use the item: If the alleged victim consented to your taking the property, there was no theft. The defense can maintain that the purported victims allowed you to use the property but forgot that they did so.
  • You were falsely accused: Falsely accusing someone of theft is a crime. Your attorney can help you assemble evidence to help prove that you are the victim of a false accusation.

Experienced criminal law attorney is eager to fight for your rights

If you are arrested for theft, we at the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi want to protect your freedom. Schedule a consultation with a lawyer at our firm by calling us at (310) 448-1529 or contacting us online. Our office is conveniently located in the Westside Towers in Los Angeles, within minutes of Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Westwood, and steps away from the Expo/Bundy Station. We have flexible hours and weekend appointments, and we will visit you in jail to discuss your case.