Being accused of theft and burglary is a serious legal matter that can lead to severe consequences, including jail time, substantial fines, restitution payments, probation, and a permanent criminal record. A conviction for these offenses can impact your ability to secure employment, housing, and financial opportunities, as many employers and landlords conduct background checks that reveal theft-related charges. Additionally, certain theft crimes carry sentencing enhancements, which can result in even harsher penalties if not properly defended.
At the Law Office of Hector J. Tamayo, we understand the high stakes involved in theft and burglary cases, and we are committed to providing an aggressive and strategic defense to protect your rights. Whether you are facing a misdemeanor or felony charge, our firm fights to secure the best possible outcome, whether that means reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or a full case dismissal.
Defending Against a Wide Range of Theft and Burglary Charges
We provide legal defense for individuals accused of various theft-related offenses, including:
- Petty Theft: The unlawful taking of property valued under a certain threshold (typically $950 in California), such as shoplifting or minor theft offenses.
- Grand Theft: Involves stolen property valued above the petty theft threshold, which can result in felony charges and more severe penalties.
- Shoplifting: Charges related to the unlawful removal or concealment of merchandise from a store with the intent to steal.
- Robbery: A serious felony charge involving the use of force, intimidation, or threats to take property from another person.
- Burglary: Unlawfully entering a home, business, or other structure with the intent to commit theft or another crime. First-degree burglary (residential) is considered a violent felony and carries severe penalties.
- Embezzlement: The misappropriation of money or property entrusted to someone in a position of trust, often in an employment or financial setting.
- Fraud & Identity Theft: Charges involving deception, forgery, credit card fraud, or other fraudulent activities that result in financial gain.
Building a Strong Defense Strategy
A theft or burglary charge does not automatically mean a conviction. Our firm meticulously analyzes the details of your case to develop a tailored defense strategy that challenges the prosecution’s arguments. Potential defenses may include:
- Lack of Intent: Theft crimes require intent to steal. If you mistakenly took an item or believed you had a legal right to possess it, we can argue that no crime was committed.
- Mistaken Identity: Many theft cases rely on surveillance footage or eyewitness testimony, which can be unreliable or mistaken. We work to expose any weaknesses in the identification process.
- Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement violated your Fourth Amendment rights during a search or arrest, we may be able to have evidence suppressed and charges reduced or dismissed.
- Coerced Confessions: If you were pressured into making a statement or denied access to legal counsel, we will challenge the admissibility of your confession in court.
- Insufficient Evidence: The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is weak or circumstantial evidence, we will aggressively challenge the case against you.
Protecting Your Rights & Future
A theft or burglary conviction can follow you for life, making it difficult to find employment, secure housing, or obtain professional licenses. At the Law Office of Hector J. Tamayo, we are dedicated to protecting your future by fighting for the best possible outcome in your case. We provide personalized attention, clear communication, and aggressive advocacy to ensure that your side of the story is heard.
If you or a loved one has been accused of theft, burglary, or any related offense, do not wait to seek legal representation. Contact the Law Office of Hector J. Tamayo today for a confidential consultation, and let us help you build a strong defense to safeguard your rights and your future.