Los Angeles Theft Crimes Defense Attorney

Criminal Defense Attorney Jonathon Perliss
Written By
Jonathon Perliss

Theft Crimes

Facing a theft charge in Los Angeles is a serious matter with real consequences. A conviction can mean jail time, steep fines, restitution, probation, and a criminal record that can harm your job prospects and housing options. We know an accusation of this nature can cause a lot of anxiety, but you don’t have to face it alone. Co-founder and lead attorney, Jonathon Perliss, can provide the representation and advocacy you need at this uncertain time.

At Perliss Law Firm, we offer free and confidential consultations in English and Mandarin so that you can receive clear and honest advice from the start. Our experienced attorney Jonathon Perliss provides personalized attention and strategic representation to navigate the complexities of the legal system effectively.

With extensive experience in Los Angeles County courts, Jonathon Perliss understands how local judges and prosecutors handle theft cases, giving you an important advantage from day one.

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Our Simple Process

1
A telephone
CONTACT US
2
A document
FREE CONSULTATION
3
A magnifying glass
CASE INVESTIGATION
4
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RESULTS

What Is Considered Theft in Los Angeles?

Criminal record with a gavel next to it

California Penal Code defines theft broadly to include taking someone else’s property without consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.

Common theft-related charges in Los Angeles include:

Petty Theft (Penal Code §484 & §488):

Taking property valued at $950 or less.

Grand Theft (Penal Code §487)

Taking someone else’s property through force or fear.

Shoplifting (Penal Code §459.5):

Entering a store during business hours, intending to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Burglary (Penal Code §459)

Entering a building or structure with the intent to commit theft or any felony.

Robbery (Penal Code §211)

Taking property directly from someone through force or fear.

Embezzlement (Penal Code §503)

Arson, mayhem, sexual assault, brandishing a firearm, resisting arrest, and more.

Receiving Stolen Property (Penal Code §496)

Buying, receiving, or concealing property you know was stolen.

Understanding your charge(s) can help you craft the best defense possible and protect your future. At Perliss Law Firm, you will receive personal attention from day one when you schedule a free consultation with Jonathon Perliss. He will listen to your story, explain your options, and begin building a solid argument for your freedom.

Potential Penalties for Theft Convictions

The penalties for theft crimes in Los Angeles can be severe and life‑changing. They depend on the value of the property, the nature of the theft, and your criminal history. Even a first offense can bring lasting consequences.

Typical penalties include:

Fines and restitution to victims, which can create long‑term financial strain

Fines and restitution to victims, which can create long‑term financial strain

Probation with conditions such as community service, counseling, or theft education programs

Loss of professional licenses or immigration consequences for non‑citizens, affecting future opportunities

Some theft offenses are charged as misdemeanors while others are felonies, and factors like prior convictions or aggravating circumstances can dramatically increase punishment. Early intervention from a skilled defense attorney can make a real difference by negotiating reduced charges, seeking diversion programs, or challenging the prosecution’s evidence.

At Perliss Law Firm, we understand how frightening it is to face these penalties. Our team carefully reviews every detail of your case and explains the possible outcomes in plain language.

Then, Attorney Jonathon Perliss works proactively to protect your freedom, finances, and future.With so much at stake, you need a knowledgeable attorney who will advocate aggressively on your behalf.

Defense Strategies Against Theft Charges

Building a strong defense requires a detailed examination of the facts, the circumstances, and the prosecution’s evidence. An experienced attorney will look for weaknesses in the case and present evidence that negates key elements of the offense.

Key defense approaches include:

Lack of Intent

Showing you did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of their property.

Mistaken Identity

Proving you were not the person who committed the theft.

Ownership or Right of Possession

Demonstrating you believed the property was yours or you had permission to take it.

Consent

Showing the owner consented to your actions.

Insufficient Evidence

Challenging unreliable witness testimony or flawed security footage.

Illegal Search or Seizure

Suppressing evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights.

By tailoring these strategies to the specific facts of your case, a skilled defense attorney can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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A Legacy of Amazing Results

CONSPIRACY & BANK ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
The Santa Monica branch of a major bank was robbed at gunpoint. My client worked at the bank and was charged with setting up the crime, meeting with the accomplice and teaching him how, when and where to do the robbery, and giving him the gun. My client was facing over fifteen years in prison.
DRUNK DRIVING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was prosecuted for driving with a blood-alcohol level above the legal limit. The defense maintained the police did not comply with their regulations when they administered the breath test without waiting the requisite fifteen minutes after initial detention.
KIDNAPPING-ROBBERY
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was arrested while sitting in a van wearing a ski mask. There were two women tied up in the back of the van. Jewelry from the women's house was found in my client's pocket and a gun was found underneath his seat.
MURDER
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.
PETTY THEFT/SHOPLIFTING
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client exited a large department store carrying a bag of stolen merchandise. He was detained by security five feet outside the store, but still inside the larger shopping mall. He claimed he panicked when he realized that his small children were missing, and he went searching for them. The children were found inside the Mall's pet shop. The prosecutor argued that my client planned the incident.
SPOUSAL ABUSE
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client, a police officer, was accused of pummeling his wife with his fists. The wife immediately went to the local police department to report the crime and gave a lengthy videotaped statement. My client claimed that the wife was very angry at him for what she believed was his cheating on her and she fabricated the crime.
PROSTITUTION
Not Guilty, Jury Trial
My client was charged with agreeing to a sex act with an undercover police officer. The defense was that the officer exaggerated the conversation and the client never agreed to the act.
GRAND THEFT
HUNG JURY, DISMISSED
My client was charged with first-degree murder after witnesses allegedly saw him shoot the victim. There was evidence that the victim and my client had an argument earlier that day. The defense was mistaken identity. He was facing life in prison.

The Benefits of Hiring a Local Defense Attorney

Criminal records being sealed

When you face theft charges in Los Angeles, working with a local attorney offers significant advantages.

A lawyer based in your community understands the nuances of nearby courts, has established relationships with key players, and can respond immediately to critical developments in your case.

Local Courtroom Experience

Familiarity with Los Angeles County court procedures ensures your case moves efficiently.

Established Relationships

Strong connections with local prosecutors, judges, and court staff can facilitate productive negotiations.

Rapid Case Response

Proximity allows your attorney to address time‑sensitive matters quickly.

In‑Person Accessibility

Face‑to‑face meetings for strategy sessions and updates build trust.

Community Insight

Understanding local jury pools and sentencing trends helps tailor a defense that resonates with decision‑makers.

By choosing a Los Angeles defense lawyer, you gain an advocate who knows your legal rights and is committed to securing the best possible outcome for you.

How Perliss Law Firm Can Defend You
Lawyers shaking hands

Perliss Law Firm offers a comprehensive defense designed to protect your rights and minimize the impact of theft charges. From the moment you contact us, we move quickly to understand your situation, preserve evidence, and develop a strategy tailored to your case. 

We are dedicated to providing clients with experienced and compassionate legal representation. When you choose Perliss, you choose:

1
Free, Confidential Consultation

Discuss your case in English or Mandarin at no cost.

2
Thorough Investigation

We gather witness statements, video evidence, and records to contradict the prosecution’s theory.

3
Aggressive Pretrial Motion Practice

We file timely motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence and challenge procedural errors.

4
Skilled Negotiation

We leverage our knowledge of local prosecutors and judges to pursue plea agreements, diversion programs, or probationary sentences.

5
Client-Centered Approach

Your rights, freedom, and future are our top priorities. We keep you informed at every stage of the process.

6
Ongoing Client Support

We keep you updated at every stage and provide the guidance you need to navigate the legal process.

With Perliss Law Firm by your side, you can pursue every option to reduce the impact of theft accusations on your personal and professional life.

Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Los Angeles
What is the difference between petty theft and grand theft?

Petty theft involves property valued at $950 or less, while grand theft involves property valued over $950. Grand theft carries more severe penalties, including possible felony charges.

Can I avoid jail time if charged with theft?

Depending on the circumstances and your criminal history, you may qualify for diversion programs, probation, or reduced charges. A strong defense can also highlight mitigating factors to lessen penalties.

How long will my theft case take to resolve?

Timelines vary based on the complexity of the evidence and court schedules. Many cases resolve in a few months, but cases involving extensive investigation or trial can take longer.

How much experience does Perliss Law Firm have with sex crime cases?

Evidence collected in violation of your constitutional rights can be excluded from your case. Suppression of key evidence may lead to reduced charges or dismissal.

How can Perliss Law Firm help me fight my theft charge?

We provide free consultations, investigate your case thoroughly, file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and prepare for trial when necessary. Our goal is to achieve the best possible result for you.

Contact Our Experienced Los Angeles Theft Defense Attorney
Lawyer working on paperwork with a gavel and lady justice next to him

If you’re facing theft charges in Los Angeles County or surrounding areas, act now to safeguard your future.

Perliss Law Firm offers free, confidential consultations in both English and Mandarin. As an experienced criminal defense lawyer, Jonathon Perliss knows the local courts, prosecutors, and judges, which allows him to respond quickly and build a strong defense for your case.

Contact Perliss Law Firm today
to review your case, explore your options, and start fighting for the best possible result.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
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Why Choose Us?

1
We are experts from both sides of the courtroom.
Former California Prosecutor Now Fighting For You.
2
Dedicated to the aggressive and zealous representation
Often able to achieve results that other lawyers cannot.
3
Generational trial law experience.
Trial lawyer of over 40 years.
4
Experienced lawyers and staff members
We have the means to help you with your criminal case, and keep you informed throughout the process.

Schedule a
Free Consultation

Office Hours - Mon-Fri: 9:30am to 5pm
Legal Disclaimer

The information you obtain at this site is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. The Perliss Law Firm team is licensed to practice law in California. We invite you to contact us, but please be aware that contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
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