The Difference Between Petty Theft and Grand Theft – Answered by a San Diego Theft Lawyer

Many people are unaware of the scale of theft charges and the difference between petty theft and grand theft. These differences can be helpful when discerning which type of theft charge is applicable to the situation you are dealing with, what defenses may be applicable, and what consequences you may be facing. The main distinctions specifically pertain to the amount of property that has been allegedly stolen and the type of penalty associated with the crime. If you are facing charges of theft, it is important you are educated on the type of charge and you have armed yourself with an experienced attorney who will stand by your side and fight avidly for your defense.

What is Petty Theft in California

According to California Penal Code §§484 and 488, the main difference between petty theft and grand theft is that petty theft applies to a lesser amount of stolen property. If the amount of stolen property’s value is less than $950 total, the alleged perpetrator will be charged with petty theft. This charge is generally categorized as a misdemeanor, which is a lesser offense than a felony. Considering petty theft is categorized as a misdemeanor rather than a felony, it also carries less serious penalties than grand theft. For example, if convicted of petty theft a perpetrator could be facing probation, up to six 6 months in county jail, and/or a fine of up to $1,000. The California Penal Code also states that petty theft involves property that was not taken directly from the owner, such as from the person’s clothing, body, or a container held or carried by the person. This type of criteria is usually applicable during a mugging or robbery, which is a different classification of theft.

What is Felony Theft in California

On the greater scale of theft is felony theft as it involves stolen property greater than $950 in total value and could result in greater penalties or punishment. These charges are usually seen as Commercial Burglary, Vehicle Theft, Theft From Person, or Fraud. There are factors that can automatically result in a charge of felony theft as well, regardless of the value of the item(s) stolen. For instance, if the perpetrator used a gun or has stolen a vehicle, they will automatically be charged with a felony rather than petty theft. Most felony theft charges are unique in the sense that it can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. If charged as a misdemeanor, a perpetrator could be facing up to one (1) year in county jail, however if charged as a felony they could be facing probation and jail for up to one (1) year, or  16 months, two (2) years, or three (3) years in state prison.

Contact Experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer – Ashby C. Sorensen Today 

If you have been charged with a theft related crime, you need to act quickly and obtain the legal representation you can trust to safeguard your legal rights. The sooner you can work on your defense and retain an experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer, the more confident you can be when facing your charges. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation or ask Attorney Ashby Sorensen any questions you may have about your charges.

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The Role of a San Diego Defense Lawyer – Discussed by Ashby Sorensen

A defense lawyer role is to simply defend those who have been accused of crimes. Their job is to protect your legal rights, especially if you are not guilty of the charges you are facing. The only thing standing between you and the legal system, is your defense lawyer; therefore, so much of your life’s quality and freedom lies in their hands. A valuable defense lawyer wears many hats and plays many significant roles when it comes to defending someone accused of a crime. Not only are they a lawyer or counselor, but they are also an advisory and a coach. Their job is to adequately assess all of the circumstances and facts of the matter, advise a defendant of his or her options, counsel them based on their opinions as to the most feasible and best outcome, and coach them through the grueling process of a trial, if necessary.

Protect Against Unwarranted Charges

Oftentimes, defendants may be facing unwarranted criminal charges and on the road to receiving punishments they do not deserve. A defense lawyer’s role is to combat unwarranted charges and effectively investigate as to what actually happened. Whether a police officer made a well-intentioned mistake, or there were outright fabrications in statements or obtaining warrants, a defense lawyer can unearth holes in the prosecution’s story. A defense attorney’s role is to force the prosecution to prove their side of the story is true in order to keep individuals from serving time or penalties they do not deserve.

Reduce “Over” Charges

Many people accused of crimes are faced with “over” charges, meaning the prosecution is seeking much higher penalties than are warranted for the facts of what was allegedly committed. Another role of a defense attorney is to reduce “over” charges and ensure the scales of justice are evenly and fairly balanced. For example, this can happen if the prosecution seeks a felony conviction rather than a more appropriately applicable misdemeanor classification.

Sentencing Statement by Defense Lawyer

After a verdict has been reached, the court will allow both the prosecuting attorney and the defense attorney to make a sentencing statement. The prosecution will most likely proffer statements that will heighten and intensify the aggravating elements of the case in the hopes of receiving the maximum sentence. The defense lawyer’s role is to combat these allegations and respond with defenses/counterarguments to reduce the requested sentence.  These statements are incredibly important to the outcome of your case and the ultimate status of your freedom.

Get Help From an Aggressive Defense Lawyer in San Diego – Ashby C. Sorensen Today

A defense lawyer has many important roles in defending an individual facing criminal charges. Through every step of the process, their job is to stand beside you and vigorously represent your legal rights. Defense Lawyer San Diego Ashby Sorensen has represented numerous clients and achieved ideal outcomes, and he is ready to defend your case too. Have confidence knowing you have a qualified defense lawyer fighting to protect your legal rights and ensuring your freedom. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation. 

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Ashby C. Sorensen is Experienced San Diego Drug Lawyer

Are you looking for a San Diego Drug Lawyer? Having successfully defended over many clients, The Law Office of Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen has one of the highest success rates for criminal defence lawyers in San Diego.

Being charged with a criminal offence can have life-altering consequences that can have an impact on your freedom, your reputation and your ability to earn a living. If you have been charged with a criminal offence, you need experienced legal representation fighting to protect your rights. An effective criminal defence can mean the difference between a prison sentence and a reduced or dismissed charge.

The Law Office of Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen understands that everything is at stake when a person is facing drug criminal charges. There can be no compromise in a defence or a drug lawyer when everything is on the line. That is why Ashby C. Sorensen strives to provide the best defence the law will afford for his clients. No matter how serious or minor the criminal charge may be, Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen will ensure you receive the best defence the law will afford.

Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen has over Many years of experience and expertise, day in and day out, defending people just like you. Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen has handled almost every type of Drug offence, from minor charges to more serious and complex charges. He has represented thousands of individuals from all walks of life.

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Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego

During legal troubles, Criminal Defense Lawyer San Diego can be your true friend in resolving felonies. Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen is a leading attorney who zealously defends his clients and has a successful record of dealing with legal cases. Whether you are charged with DUI, fraud or looking for bail hearings, he would escort and defend you in the wide range of legal matters. For him, no case is too tough to handle.

At Criminal Defense Attorney San Diego, we deeply analyze our client's cases and then, recommend a viable solution that always fits your pocket. Mr. Ashby C. Sorensen will personally look after the progress of your legal hearings and are available round the clock for a quick assistance, any time you need.

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Find the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer in San Diego

Criminal defence lawyer in San Diego, California. Ashby C. Sorensen is a criminal lawyer practicing in San Diego.He represents those facing criminal charges or requiring legal advice on criminal law related matters. Having an experienced criminal lawyer on your side is the best defence. It is the only way to help you achieve the best possible results when facing criminal charges.   

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Aggressive Representation from an Experienced Defense Attorney in San Diego

Facing criminal charges can be a long, rigorous and very stressful process. From beginning to end, there are confusions, frustrations, nuances and legal issues that can and will arise. Criminal charges should be taken very seriously, whether it is your first charge or you have been charged before.

California has unique laws and caveats that can make or break your case, and such, it is important to have a Defense Attorney in San Diego by your side each step along the way to ensure you are being fairly and properly represented. San Diego Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen knows the criminal system inside and out, and as such, can best advise you on your options and the outcomes that will favor your needs. No one wants to be in this position, but if you have found yourself facing charges, now is the time to be proactive and take action to protect your legal rights.

How a Defense Attorney Can Help During Each Stage of Your Criminal Case

There are many stages and steps throughout the process of criminal charges and you will want to be sure you are properly advised and professionally guided throughout them all. As your San Diego Defense Attorney, Ashby Sorensen will gather and discuss your initial arrest reports or investigation with you during your free consultation in order to assess your matter.  We will diligently examine what allegedly happened and what did not happen so we can accurately get more information, as we know police reports may not always provide sufficient detail.

Our firm will go to work gathering relevant evidence, talking to witnesses and digging deeper into details that could help your case. It may be beneficial to hire a private investigator to help us prove or disprove all necessary facts in your case. Defense Attorney Sorensen will also tactfully and strategically evaluate all evidence and testimonies gathered throughout the process and compile the most strong and fair case to protect your legal rights. We know there are many sides to every story and not all arrest reports or allegations tell them all, so we want to hear from you and help you maintain your freedom and reputation.

Aggressive Defense Attorney Representation, at a Fair Price

We don’t believe in high prices that the average person cannot afford. Our firm strives to help any person needing a defense attorney in san diego get the representation they need at a price they can afford. Our free consultation shows that we gladly share our time to see how we can help you and assess what our firm can do for you.

Protect Your Legal Rights - Contact Seasoned San Diego Defense Attorney Ashby C. Sorensen

Do not take any risks hiring an attorney who may not be qualified or know criminal law inside and out. Your freedom and your rights are at stake and our firm is here to help protect them both. Help us help you protect your legal rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation.

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Criminal Defense Attorney San Diego

Whether you or a loved one are facing charges, or you need to bail someone out of jail, Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen is here to help. Our firm will give you and your loved ones the peace of mind you need during these traumatizing times. When faced with criminal charges, the last thing you need is to worry about whether or not you will be getting a fair trial, whether your attorney genuinely has your best interests in mind, or questioning the amount of experience and knowledge they have to get you the best possible outcome.

Protect Your Legal Rights

Our law firm fully understands the stresses you are facing, and the freedoms you could be losing. We believe in a hands-on, proactive approach, and treating every client with the respect and attention they deserve. We don’t wait for offers to come our way or for the first court date to take action. From day one we are advocating and taking steps to defend your rights and freedom. Our goal is to educate you on your options throughout the process, to adequately advise you and aggressively represent you every step of the way.  We strive to get you back home to your family and living a normal life as soon as possible.

Finding Flaws in the Prosecution’s Case

San Diego Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen’s job is to advocate on your behalf and essentially defend you as if he were in your shoes. This means looking through the police report line by line to ensure no detail is left overlooked or no mistake or flaw goes unnoticed. He will do whatever it takes to find every hole in the prosecution’s case against you and be sure the court is aware of it. His job is to ensure the prosecution’s case doesn’t hold up and the court hears an aggressive defense on your behalf. From start to finish, he will fight for you with that goal in mind.

Need a Second Criminal Defense Legal Opinion?

Perhaps you already have a criminal defense attorney san diego, but you are unsure if they are doing all they can for your case. You may be frustrated and unable to reach them and you want and need answers now. Our firm is happy to evaluate your case and advise you on whether or not your attorney is on the right track or you may have better options. Whether your case has been pending for awhile or you want reassurance that your attorney’s strategy is going to result in the best possible outcome for your charges, we are here to help. We have represented thousands of clients, gotten countless charges dropped and decreased punishments and sentencing. We look forward to doing the same for you and your matter.

Contact an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney in San Diego - Ashby C. Sorensen - Today

Facing criminal charges can be traumatizing, and our firm knows the stresses you are facing. Let Criminal Defense Attorney Ashby Sorensen ease your fears and give you confidence that your matter is being handled by an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the law and the system. Protect Your Legal Rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation.

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Why Both Guilty and Innocent People Need a Defense Lawyer in San Diego

Whether or not you are guilty or innocent, everyone who is facing criminal charges can benefit from hiring a qualified defense lawyer. Most innocent people think they can rely on the system and the court to hear their side and have the jury or judge believe them. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.  As such, you do not want to take the risk of being unprepared or unaware of how the system works, and end up losing your freedom as a result. On the other hand, if a person is guilty, they may also be unaware that a defense lawyer can help them battle their charges, help get a reduction, or even get their case dropped. An experienced defense lawyer san diego is more likely to know what constitutes a good “deal” or how to negotiate a lesser charge than the average person.

How a Defense Lawyer Combats the Prosecution

In a criminal case, the prosecutor is the attorney representing the state who is bringing these charges against you. When a police report is filed charging you with a crime, it is then given to the prosecutor’s office to decide whether or not to press charges against you. At this stage, an experienced defense attorney could discuss the charges with the prosecutor and state why this is not a legally sound case and should be thrown out of court. Also, if they police violated a person’s privacy while searching or questioning them, any evidence acquired may be inadmissible and not used if the case is taken to court.

If there is not enough evidence, then the case may never go to trial. And if there is evidence that is not very strong or convincing, it may not be worth the prosecutor’s time or expense to take the matter to trial. A Defense Lawyer’s job is to see to it that evidence that should be withheld is inadmissible and to weaken the strength of the case so it is ultimately dismissed. If the prosecutor decides to take the case to trial, the prosecution is in charge of representing the government and the charges against you, whereas your defense lawyer defends you, your freedom and your rights.

How a Defense Lawyer in San Diego Can Help Expunge Your Criminal Record

Not only are defense lawyers helpful before and during the criminal charges process, they can assist you after your trial and sentencing have concluded. Many people wish to have their criminal record “wiped” or expunged, but are not familiar with the process or how it works. An expungement allows for someone to petition the court to review their conviction in order to assess whether or not it qualifies for dismissal. A Defense Lawyer can help you work through that process and show you how to get certain guilty pleas withdrawn and clean up your record to help you get a job or restore your reputation.

Get Help From Aggressive San Diego Defense Lawyer Ashby C. Sorensen

Anyone faced with criminal charges can benefit from having a trusted legal advisor by their side. Every step of the way provides new opportunity for your case to get worse or to potentially get better. Rest assured knowing you have a qualified defense lawyer fighting to protect your legal rights from beginning to end. Call  (858) 999-6921 now for your free consultation. 

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San Diego Lawyer Explains the Difference Between Domestic Violence, Spousal Abuse & Domestic Battery

In California, the definition of domestic violence is stated under the Penal Code as “abuse committed against an adult or a minor who is a spouse, former spouse, cohabitant, former cohabitant, or person with whom the suspect has had a child or is having or has had a dating or engagement relationship.”  Although most incidents of abuse are through physical violence, they can also be defined as emotional, economical or psychological abuse as well.

Many allegations of domestic violence may arise from a number of different circumstances, not all of which are true or warrant a charge of spousal abuse or domestic battery.  However, if you are found guilty, the penalties involved may be very serious and involve prison time or a loss of custody if you have children.  As such, it is important that you know your rights if you have been charged with domestic violence so you are aware of your options and how to best protect yourself.

What is Spousal Abuse?

Although spousal abuse is different than domestic violence and is codified in another section of the Penal Code, the two usually arise from the same set of events. Spousal abuse is defined in the code as “the infliction of bodily injury resulting in a traumatic condition against a current or former spouse, cohabitant or fiancé.” Oftentimes, circumstances surrounding spousal abuse involve the presence of drugs, alcohol or other factors, which can fuel arguments and cause reactions to arguments that are normally unreasonable.  The crime of Spousal Abuse is a felony and can result in up to four years in prison if found guilty, and up to seven years for repeat offenses.

What is Domestic Battery?

Domestic Battery is defined as battery (willful use of force or violence against another) against a former spouse, current spouse or cohabitant. Although this definition sounds very similar to spousal abuse and domestic violence, the three are not mutually exclusive, can result in different penalties and require different defense approaches. Many defendants charged with domestic violence believe that because the allegations are false the jury or judge will believe their side and they will be proven innocent. This is not always the case, as the court is often sympathetic to alleged victims of abuse or battery.  Therefore, a lawyer’s strategic yet careful approach is incredibly important.

Protect Your Legal Rights - Contact Qualified San Diego Domestic Violence Lawyer Ashby C. Sorensen

If you have been charged with domestic violence, spousal abuse or domestic battery, you need a domestic violence lawyer san diego who you can trust. It is imperative to have a seasoned attorney who has the experience and knowledge your case needs to ensure your legal rights are protected. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation or speak with attorney Ashby Sorensen today to learn more about your legal options.  

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San Diego Theft Lawyer Have Many Specialties

If you have been charged with a theft crime in San Diego, you probably have many questions and concerns regarding your case. Understandably, this can be a stressful and scary time considering the punishment you may be facing and how intricate theft law can be. It is important with these types of charges that you don't wait to take action in order to protect yourself and your legal rights.

Many people are not aware of the many types or levels of theft crimes that you can be charged with. Each come with varying elements and can result in varying punishments based on severity and circumstance. It is important that you educate yourself on the type of charge you are facing and also, hire a San Diego Theft Lawyer who is familiar with the penal code regarding these charges so they can fight vigorously for you at all stages of your case.

The following are types of theft you could be charged with, and brief qualifiers of each charge:

Shoplifting – entering a commercial establishment while it is open for business with the intent to steal items worth nine hundred fifty ($950) or less.
Robbery – Taking the personal property in the possession of another, from his or her possession with the use of force or fear.
Carjacking - felonious taking of a motor vehicle in the possession of another, from his or her person or immediate presence with intent to deprive of possession through force or fear.
Receiving Stolen Property – Knowingly buying, receiving, selling or concealing property that has been stolen from another person.
Petty Theft – Property valued at $950.00 or less, or property that is not taken from the person of another.
Grand Theft – Property valued at $950.00 or more, or property that was taken from the person of another, of an automobile or firearm.
Burglary – Entering the property of another with the intent to commit a felony.
Unlawful Taking or Driving of a Vehicle – driving or taking a vehicle without the consent of the owner with intent to deprive the owner of possession or ownership.
Identity Theft – Taking personal information and using it for an unlawful purpose.

If you are facing theft crime charges in California, a qualified San Diego Theft Lawyer with extensive knowledge of the relevant laws pertaining to your case, can be a huge asset to you. With deep knowledge of theft law comes the ability to provide a defense to your matter that can help you receive the best possible outcome for your case. Whether the result is dropping the charges completely, lessening the charges or decreasing possible punishment or jail time, your defense may be your only hope.

Contact Experienced San Diego Theft Lawyer – Ashby C. Sorensen Today

Being charged with a theft crime is nothing to take lightly. It is important that you arm yourself with an experienced san diego theft lawyer and protect your legal rights. Call (858) 999-6921 now to schedule your free consultation or ask Attorney Sorensen any questions you might have about your charges.

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