Fallbrook Theft Crime Defense Attorneys

Fallbrook Lawyer Defends Against Theft Crime Charges

Fallbrook’s crime rate is 32.84 per 1,000 residents during an average year. Although East Fallbrook has a lower crime rate, people are frequently convicted of theft crimes in both East and West Fallbrook.

If you were charged with a theft crime, the quality of your legal defense can profoundly impact the outcome of your case. An experienced criminal defense lawyer brings a depth of legal understanding to the table, providing the tools to prevail in complex criminal cases.

At jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys, we know how to evaluate evidence critically, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and construct a compelling defense strategy. Our experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charges or penalties — or have your case dismissed entirely — when the evidence against you is insufficient.

If you were charged with any theft crime in Fallbrook, contact jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys immediately. Attorney James N. Dicks has been involved with the local criminal justice system for over 30 years, and he has helped thousands of defendants maintain their freedom; he can ensure your rights are not violated during the legal proceedings.

Call (760) 630-2000 to schedule your free consultation with our theft crime lawyer today.

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Common Theft-Related Offenses in Fallbrook

Our criminal defense lawyer has achieved successful outcomes for clients who were accused of all types of theft crimes, including:

• Shoplifting: This involves entering a commercial establishment with the intent to commit larceny while it is open during regular business hours, and the value of the property that is taken or intended to be taken is $950 or less.
• Burglary: This is the act of entering a building (residential, commercial, or any other type of property) with the intent to commit grand larceny, petit larceny, or any other felony.
• Robbery: This is the felonious taking of personal property in the possession of another, from his person or immediate presence, and against his will, accomplished through force or fear.
• Petty Theft: This involves the unlawful taking of property valued below $950. This crime is classified as a misdemeanor, but it carries fines as large as $1,000 and up to six months in jail.
• Grand Theft: This occurs when the value of the stolen property exceeds $950. In Fallbrook, this crime is referred to as a wobbler because it may be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the circumstances and the defendant’s criminal history. The implications of a grand theft charge are far-reaching and may result in substantial fines, up to three years in prison, and a permanent mark on your criminal record.
• Receiving Stolen Property: This is also a wobbler. When charged as a felony, knowingly accepting, purchasing, or concealing items that have been stolen carries up to three years in jail. Even when defendants are not aware that the property was stolen, proving innocence can be difficult unless you have the right legal representation. That is why jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and fight to get these charges dismissed.

No matter the criminal offense you have been charged with, jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can explore every legal avenue to build a robust defense. We are skilled in every facet of criminal defense, including collecting evidence, questioning witnesses, and presenting a compelling argument in court. We can also explore alternative sentencing and diversion programs that help many defendants avoid criminal prosecution.

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Understanding Prop 47 Guidelines in California

Prop 47 was a ballot initiative passed in California in 2014. The act reduced certain nonviolent felonies to misdemeanors and required that any savings generated by the reduced prison population be reinvested in schools and victim services. The overall goal of the act was to reduce the state’s prison population and redirect resources toward education and rehabilitation.

There has been some debate over the effectiveness of Prop 47. Some critics argue that it has led to an increase in crime. In contrast, supporters argue that it has helped to reduce the prison population and redirect resources toward education and rehabilitation. Overall, Prop 47 has had a mixed impact on California.

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What to Do If You Are Accused of Theft in Fallbrook

If you are accused of theft in Fallbrook, you should remain calm and contact a lawyer. If the police question you, it is best to stay silent and not answer any questions without a lawyer present. It is important to remember that anything you say can be used against you in court.

If you are charged with theft, you will likely have to appear in court and may face jail time or other penalties. An experienced Fallbrook criminal defense lawyer can help you navigate the criminal justice system and protect your rights.

When facing an arrest, the best thing to do is remain calm and cooperative. You will be read your Miranda rights, and then you will be asked to accompany the officer to the station. Once you are at the station, you will be processed and placed in a holding cell. You will have a chance to make a phone call, and you should use this opportunity to call a lawyer. You will then be brought before a judge to set your bail. If you cannot pay bail, you will be held in jail until your trial.

After being arrested, staying off social media and keeping a low profile is essential. This is because anything you post on social media can be used against you in your case. Additionally, if you have a large social media following, it can be challenging to keep your issue private if you are constantly posting online. Therefore, taking a break from social media and keeping a low profile is best until your case has been resolved.

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Legal Defenses Our Attorney Can Use Against Theft Charges

Your criminal defense attorney plays a pivotal role by providing crucial legal guidance, and a qualified theft crime defense attorney can start by thoroughly reviewing the case details and evidence to identify any weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s charges. With jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys, we can build a strong case on your behalf.

The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant had the intention, or mens rea, to commit theft. This involves demonstrating that someone knowingly took property without permission to permanently deprive the rightful owner of it. In cases where intent cannot be clearly established, the defense has a strong argument for acquittal.

Mistaken identity frequently plays a significant role in the defense against theft charges. This may occur for several reasons, such as unreliable eyewitness testimony, misinterpreted surveillance footage, sloppy work, and incorrect assumptions by law enforcement officers. In these cases, jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys can rigorously investigate the false claims against you, seeking exonerating evidence such as receipts, alibis, digital records, and forensic analysis of the available evidence.

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement induces someone to commit a crime they would not have otherwise engaged in. In such cases, the defense can prevail by arguing that the intent to commit theft was not present before the undue influence or coercion by authorities.

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Our Fallbrook Theft Crime Lawyer Can Help You After an Arrest

A felony conviction for theft can negatively impact future employment opportunities, a professional license, gun rights, immigration status, and your reputation. Contact jD Law Criminal Defense Attorneys right away if you have been arrested.

Our experienced Fallbrook theft defense attorney can advise you on your legal rights and options and help you navigate the criminal justice system. We can also help you obtain bail if necessary, and can represent you at your arraignment and throughout all subsequent legal proceedings.

Call (760) 630-2000 to learn more today.

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