Property crimes can be very delicate, particularly if they relate to alleged thefts from an organization by which you are employed. Furthermore, convictions relating to theft can seriously impact the way people around you perceive you, both on a personal and professional level. Friends and family may be unwilling to trust you in their homes while employers may be reluctant to give you access to aspects of their business.
However, such charges are all too common in California. A simple mistake, being in the wrong place at the wrong time, or even absent-mindedly picking up the wrong bag can get you into trouble. Imagine you usually wear a blue coat, but one day you go out without it, yet are so used to carrying it you pick up someone else’s blue coat through force of habit. Later that day you may be apprehended for theft.
Fortunately, you are innocent unless you can be proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. This means that with the right defense you may still be able to avoid conviction and preserve your good name. An attorney may also be able to help you with ensuring that your side of the story is heard by the court.
It is a lot to take in when faced with the threat of conviction, yet you do not need to face it alone. Our page on property crimes has more detailed information on the sort of charges you might face and the steps you can take to protect yourself from conviction.