Grand Theft
Grand Theft Attorney in Santa Ana
A grand theft charge can jeopardize your record, employment, and reputation. Whether the allegation involves money, property, or embezzlement-related accusations, the state must still prove intent — and that’s where a strong defense can make all the difference. At Glew & Kim, we act fast to challenge overblown claims, protect your rights, and seek dismissal or reduction before lasting damage is done.
Understanding Grand Theft in California
Under California Penal Code §487, grand theft occurs when the value of property taken exceeds $950, or when the item stolen falls under specific protected categories such as vehicles, firearms, or livestock. Unlike petty theft, grand theft may be filed as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the facts and your criminal history.
Common scenarios include:
Taking money or goods valued over $950.
“Employee theft” involving workplace funds or property.
Auto theft or unlawful vehicle use.
Theft by false pretense, trick, or deception.
Misunderstood business or contract disputes mistaken for theft.
Many cases begin as civil or employment disputes but escalate to criminal charges when intent is misinterpreted — often without complete evidence.
Penalties for Grand Theft
California treats grand theft as a “wobbler” offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony.
Typical penalties include:
Misdemeanor: Up to 1 year in county jail, restitution, and probation.
Felony: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in jail or state prison.
Enhanced penalties if firearms or vehicles are involved.
Fines and restitution orders to alleged victims.
Permanent record affecting employment and licensing.
We work to negotiate early resolutions, often securing reductions to petty theft or diversion alternatives to keep your record clean.
Our Approach to Grand Theft Defense
Theft cases are rarely as simple as prosecutors claim. We examine every angle to build a strong, fact-based defense:
Analyze property valuation — challenging inflated estimates that push a case into felony range.
Investigate ownership disputes — showing that items were borrowed, shared, or jointly owned.
Expose incomplete evidence — questioning witness credibility and documentation gaps.
Prove lack of intent — demonstrating misunderstanding, mistake, or rightful claim to property.
Negotiate restitution-based outcomes — focusing on resolution rather than punishment.
Our priority is preventing a permanent record and restoring your standing as quickly as possible.
What to Do If You’ve Been Accused of Grand Theft
If you’re under investigation or have been arrested:
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney.
Do collect receipts, records, or communications related to the incident.
Do not contact the alleged victim directly.
Do contact our office immediately to preserve your options.
Visit our Been Arrested? page for next steps or view our Case Results to see how we’ve defended theft allegations across Orange County.
Act Quickly to Protect Your Freedom
Grand theft allegations can escalate fast — but early legal action can stop the damage before it spreads. Our experienced theft defense attorneys in Santa Ana work strategically to protect your rights, reputation, and future. Call today for a free, confidential consultation.
