L.A. Defense Attorney Experienced with Petty Theft Enhancements

Let a knowledgeable defense lawyer work for you

If you have prior convictions on your record and you are arrested for petty theft, you may face an enhanced charge and sentence. At the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi, we have been representing Los Angeles clients accused of theft-related crimes for more than 10 years. We are prepared to act quickly to protect your rights and help you stay out of jail.

Petty theft with a prior conviction

In California, repeat theft offenders are dealt with harshly. Under Section 666 of the California Penal Code, individuals convicted of certain theft crimes face an increased penalty for a subsequent petty theft conviction.

If you have three or more convictions of any of the theft crimes below, you may be charged with a felony for a subsequent petty theft:

  • Grand theft
  • Robbery
  • Petty theft
  • Grand theft auto
  • Burglary
  • Carjacking

You may also face felony charges if you have a conviction for one of the crimes above and you have a previous sex crime conviction that required you to register as sex offender, or if you have a conviction for a serious or violent felony. Even if you aren’t charged with a felony, your prior convictions could mean that you face up to one year in jail instead of the normal six months.

If the prosecution chooses to charge you with a felony for petty theft with a prior, you face 16 months, two years or three years in prison.

Petty Theft Enhancements

Reducing petty theft charges

If the value of the stolen property is less than $950, you are charged with petty theft. If the value is greater than that, the charge is grand theft. If you have prior convictions on your record, you face heavy penalties. If you are a first-time offender, the right lawyer can help you avoid jail time by participating in a petty theft diversion program.

Let a respected attorney handle your petty theft enhancement

If you are arrested for a theft crime, schedule a consultation with the Law Offices of Arash Hashemi 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.

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