
Fresno Theft Crime Defense Attorneys
Get Started on Your Defense When You Call (559) 205-7757
From shoplifting to burglary, whatever type of theft charge you face in Visalia or Fresno, we have the seasoned criminal defense counsel that you need in your corner. Our legal team at Sawl Law Group has the experience and the aggression to fight your charges and obtain the best possible results.
With over 40 years of combined experience, we have taken more than 100 cases to trial and understand what it takes to obtain a favorable outcome inside and outside the courtroom. Do not hesitate to let our Visalia theft crime defense lawyers protect your rights, reputation, and future immediately.
If you are interested in scheduling a free consultation, call us today at (559) 205-7757 or contact our Fresno theft defense lawyers online.
What Is Considered Grand Theft in California?
In California, grand theft is a serious criminal offense that is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else's property that is valued at $950 or more.
Grand theft can be committed in several ways, including:
- Larceny: stealing property without the owner's consent.
- Embezzlement: taking property that is entrusted to you but belongs to someone else.
- Fraud: deceiving someone to obtain their property.
- False pretenses: using a false identity or pretense to obtain property.
Grand theft is considered a felony in California and is punishable by imprisonment in state prison for 16 months, two or three years, and a fine of up to $10,000. The severity of the punishment will depend on the circumstances of the crime, such as the value of the stolen property, the use of force or violence, and the offender's criminal history.
Penalties for Theft Crimes in California
Theft charges and penalties vary a great deal, depending on whether you have been charged with forcefully stealing or threatening force, you have been accused of a white collar crime, or you have been arrested for shoplifting, etc.
Here is a general framework of some of the penalties you could face:
- Shoplifting/petty theft/larceny - An infraction could result in a $250 fine, whereas a misdemeanor could result in six months of imprisonment a fine between $50 and $1,000 for a first offense.
- Burglary/breaking and entering - One to six years’ prison, depending on whether it is a first- or second-degree offense.
- Robbery - Imprisonment for two to nine years, depending on if it is attempted, first- or second-degree robbery.
Without proper legal representation, you could suffer a wrongful conviction. Even if you have been charged with committing a theft offense that involved a dangerous or deadly weapon, we offer the trial-tested defense you urgently need.
Understanding Your Rights in Theft Crime Cases in Fresno
Navigating the legal landscape after being charged with a theft crime can be daunting. At Sawl Law Group, we believe that understanding your rights is crucial for building a strong defense. Every individual has the right to a fair trial, the right to remain silent, and the right to legal representation. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the entire legal process.
Here are some essential rights you should be aware of:
- The Right to Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer any questions from law enforcement without your attorney present.
- The Right to an Attorney: You have the right to legal representation at all stages of your case, from initial questioning to trial.
- The Right to a Fair Trial: You are entitled to a trial by jury and to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
- The Right to Present Evidence: You can present evidence and witnesses that support your defense.
Understanding these rights can empower you during a challenging time. Our team at Sawl Law Group is here to guide you through every step and ensure that your voice is heard. Don't face your theft crime charges alone.
Facing Theft Charges in Fresno? Get in Touch with Us
If you have been arrested for theft, getting charged doesn’t mean that you are automatically guilty. You still have a chance to defend yourself with the help of Sawl Law Group. Our legal team can investigate your arrest, gather supporting evidence to prove that you are innocent or law enforcement officials violated your constitutional rights, and do our best to help you avoid harsh criminal penalties or perhaps get your entire case dismissed.
Contact us immediately to learn how our Fresno theft crimes attorneys can help you.
Clients Trust Us
Award-Winning Reputation with
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Sawl Law Group was great experience. They made what was a bad situation into a calm and comforting one. I would recommend them to anyone.
- Everardo G. -
I retained the office to help me with some very serious charges that would hurt my career and long time goals. I was wrongfully accused of taking materials from a job site. I did not take them, this law office help prove my innocence. They helped me find an investigator for my case. The staff was always ready to help me and willing to go the extra step when I had questions. The Attorney later was able to get my case dismissed. I will forever be grateful to this office who helped me. I recommend Sawl Law Group if you want someone fighting for you.- Preston D.
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Corina Burchfield walked me step by step through the whole process she is very professional definitely recommend her. She is always responsive and makes you feel like a friend.- Google Review - Brianna M.
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Just wanted to thank the Sawl Law group for a job well done. Corina did a great job and was very helpful. Corina explained the procedure in great detail. She always kept me well informed and always made herself available to me via phone, email and in person. I would highly recommend the Sawl Law group to family and friends if they were ever in need of their services.
Thanks again for all your help and hard work!
- Google Reviews – Juan G. -
This was the first time I had needed to hire an attorney. I met with 7 different lawyers before I decided. Right away you can see this is a very professional firm. They did everything they said they would, including working things out so I did not have to appear in court. I am very pleased with the service and the way the case was handled. I would and do recommend them to my friends.
- Satisfied Client -
Our Experience with the Sawl Law Group was only positive. My adult son was in serious trouble and refused to follow our extended family’s advice on how to plea, so as to enable him to get the help we thought he needed. Martin Taleisnik represented us and went above and beyond his call-to-duty on repeatedly meeting with our son and trying to talk sense into him. Because of his familiarity with the D.A.’s and judges, he was able to counsel us as to what to expect and whom to avoid, if possible.
All we were concerned about was that my son would get a fair hearing and not be swept aside by the court process. During one court appearance, Mr. Taleisnik was in the judge’s chambers for over 20 minutes, presenting the mitigating factors in my son’s case. At the sentencing hearing, Mr. Taleisnik gave an impassioned speech to the judge which persuaded the judge to give my son probation. During that speech, a female sitting behind us in court tapped us on the shoulder and told us that she was impressed by our attorney.
Regarding the fee. We were quoted a reasonable global fee that would cover anything that would transpire, short of a trial. My son’s case was continued almost monthly for 6 months, due to his co-defendant and other court procedures. Mr. Taleisnik was always there, on time, and would speak to us afterward in the hall, at length, about what the proceedings meant and what the next step was.
I highly recommend Martin Taleisnik to anyone needing legal representation and would seek him out again, if needed.
- Chanah C. -
Sawl Law Group allowed me to rest easy at night. I didn't have to follow up they were handling the matter so professionally. I would indeed go back to them if I had another issue. They were so kind and understanding.- Valerie R.
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I just wanted to say a few things about Sawl Law Group. I had never needed to hire an attorney before, so I didn’t know what I was doing, or what to expect. When i had just been charged with a DUI; I had a pile of law offices to choose from. The first one that stood out was Sawl Law Group. They were very professional, and welcoming. Claudia made a long drive, just to meet with me face to face, and have a short conversation about my case, and my options. She made me feel confident that I could do much better than I had hoped. Claudia paired me up with Michelle, the attorney that would then, represent me. She took care of all my court dates (after signing a document of course) which was especially helpful with my crazy work schedule. Not only that, but they were able to lower my DUI to a much lesser charge of “Wet Reckless” saving me thousands of dollars, and time. So thank you Sawl Law Group, Claudia, and Michelle. And to anyone else who finds themselves in a bind; I definitely recommend starting here!
- Justin R.