Theft charges are very serious and are considered crimes of ‘moral turpitude.’ Crimes of moral turpitude are crimes that may cause problems with immigration and naturalization or obtaining a job that requires a security clearance. They may cause you to fail a background check, lose your job, fail an interview and cause serious immigration problems for you and your family.
Although most individuals believe that the sanctions for a first time petty theft don’t require the assistance of an attorney, not getting the attorney’s advice on the future consequences of such a conviction can be serious.
Incarceration in theft cases can vary significantly between county to county and even courthouse to courthouse. For example, pleading guilty to a first time petty theft in one Orange County court can mean a class, DNA swab and fine, versus a different courthouse requiring jail. Obviously an experienced attorney is a must in these situations.
Sometimes a difference in one (1) day in jail may change the effect of the charge. You need an aggressive and experienced attorney who knows and understands the consequences of such a serious charge.
The Law Offices of Errol Cook will aggressively defend you.