If you’ve been accused of theft in California, you know that the ramifications can be serious. Depending on the value of the items you have allegedly stolen, you could be looking at significant time in jail. A criminal conviction can also have an impact on your personal life, your reputation in the community, your employment opportunities and much more.
As such, you likely want to consider all of your defense options. Exactly what you decide to do will depend on the unique circumstances of your case, but let’s look at some of the options you may have.
4 options to consider
Below are just four of the theft defenses you may want to use:
- You had the owner’s consent: You claim that they told you that you could take the items or financial assets, even though they deny it.
- Entrapment: The authorities conspired to convince you to commit the theft, which you would not have committed otherwise, just so that they could arrest you for the crime.
- Claim of ownership: You claim that the item is actually yours and has been all along, so it is not theft because you should have rightful possession.
- Intoxication: You had no intent to steal the money or other assets, but you were intoxicated or impaired. This is especially useful if it is involuntary intoxication, such as if someone spiked your drink without your knowledge and then you accidentally took someone else’s wallet.
Of course, there are many other options to consider. For instance, the police may have violated your rights while gathering evidence or making the arrest. It can help to have the guidance of an experienced law firm as you look into these options and craft your defense strategy.
