Theft Attorney in San Bernardino

Newman & Allen Defends Your Future After A Theft Charge

A theft accusation can put your freedom, your job, and your reputation at risk. If you are facing this situation in or around San Bernardino, you are probably worried about what comes next and how this will affect the rest of your life. You may also be unsure where to turn for clear answers.

Newman & Allen is a Rancho Cucamonga criminal defense firm that represents people accused of theft and related property offenses in the San Bernardino area. We have been defending clients in California courts since 1996, and our team includes former prosecutors who know how the state builds and negotiates these cases. We use that perspective to help our clients make informed decisions at every step.

Secure your defense before the prosecution builds its case. Contact a theft attorney in San Bernardino at Newman & Allen by calling (909) 328-6101 or reaching out online for a consultation. Put our former prosecutors and +40 years of combined experience to work for you.

Understanding Theft Crime Laws in California

California theft laws are divided primarily by the value of the property taken and the method used to take it. In 2026, the distinction between petty and grand theft remains the $950 threshold, but new aggregation rules mean multiple small incidents can now be combined into a single serious charge.

• Petty Theft (PC 484 & 488): Theft of property, services, or money valued at $950 or less. Typically a misdemeanor, it carries a maximum of six months in jail.
• Grand Theft (PC 487): Theft of property worth more than $950, or the theft of any firearm or automobile. This is a "wobbler," meaning it can be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.
• Shoplifting (PC 459.5): Entering a commercial business during business hours with the intent to steal property worth $950 or less. Under 2026 laws, officers can now arrest you for shoplifting based on probable cause even if they didn't witness the act.
• Petty Theft with a Prior (PC 666): If you have specific prior theft-related convictions, a new petty theft charge can be elevated to a felony, even if the value is under the $950 limit.
• Organized Retail Theft (PC 490.4): Acting in concert with others to steal merchandise for resale. This is a high-priority charge for San Bernardino prosecutors and carries enhanced penalties under recent legislative updates.

Certain factors can increase the stakes in a theft or larceny case. A prior record can lead to harsher treatment, and allegations involving high-value items, vulnerable victims, or organized activity may draw closer attention from the San Bernardino County District Attorney.

We take time to explain how the law applies to your specific situation, including whether your charge is a misdemeanor or felony and what sentencing ranges might look like. By understanding the legal landscape, you can participate fully in decisions about negotiations, motions, and any potential trial.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of Theft Convictions in San Bernardino

The direct penalties for theft in California vary by the degree of the offense, but the secondary consequences are often what impact our clients most.

• Misdemeanor Penalties: Up to one year in county jail, fines up to $1,000, and mandatory restitution to the victim.
• Felony Penalties: For Grand Theft or Organized Retail Theft, you may face 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years in county jail (under realignment) and fines up to $10,000.
• Professional Impact: Convictions for theft are viewed as "crimes of moral turpitude." This can lead to the revocation of professional licenses (nursing, real estate, law) and disqualification from many government jobs.
• Immigration Consequences: For non-citizens, a theft conviction can be categorized as an aggravated felony or a crime involving moral turpitude, leading to mandatory deportation or denial of citizenship.
• Restraining Orders: Courts can now issue "retail theft restraining orders" that ban you from entering certain establishments for up to two years.

Why San Bernardino Clients Choose Our Theft Defense

At Newman & Allen, we bring decades of criminal defense experience to every theft case we handle. Since 1996, our firm has represented people accused of offenses ranging from shoplifting to serious felony theft and burglary. Over those years, we have seen how quickly a misunderstanding, a moment of poor judgment, or inaccurate statements can turn into a criminal charge that threatens someone’s future.

Our team includes attorneys who previously worked as prosecutors in Southern California. They understand how the San Bernardino County District Attorney evaluates theft cases, what evidence they look for, and how they tend to approach plea offers. We draw on that insight when we analyze the evidence, identify weaknesses in the government’s case, and look for opportunities to negotiate reductions or alternative resolutions.

We do not rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, we take time to learn how this accusation fits into your life, your work, your family responsibilities, and any prior record. That preparation allows us to present a well-rounded picture of you as a person, not just a police report. It can make a real difference when we are speaking with prosecutors or standing in front of a judge in San Bernardino County.

How We Defend Theft Allegations in San Bernardino

Once you contact us, our first priority is to listen to your side of the story in a confidential setting. We want to understand what led up to the arrest, how police and store security or other witnesses treated you, and what your goals are for the case. From there, we begin a careful review of the available information so we can identify both risks and opportunities.

Our San Bernardino theft attorneys typically examine police reports, witness statements, and any video or digital evidence that may exist. We look for inconsistencies, gaps in the timeline, or signs that important context was left out. 

We also pay close attention to how officers obtained statements and evidence. If there are constitutional concerns with a search, seizure, or interrogation, those issues can sometimes form the basis for challenging the prosecution’s case.

• Lack of Intent: Theft requires a specific intent to permanently deprive someone of their property. We investigate whether the situation involved distraction, a misunderstanding, medical issues, or an honest mistake rather than criminal intent.
• Mistaken Identity: Theft cases often rely on eyewitness observations or surveillance footage. We examine whether identification procedures were reliable and fair, and whether misidentification led to the wrong person being accused.
• Claim of Right / Ownership Dispute: In some cases, there is a genuine misunderstanding about ownership or permission. If you believed you had a lawful right to the property, that can undermine the prosecution’s case.
• Valuation Challenge: In grand theft cases, the value of the property is critical. We may use independent appraisers or other evidence to show the property was worth less than the felony threshold, potentially reducing the charge to a misdemeanor.
• Civil Compromise: For certain misdemeanor theft offenses, reimbursement to the alleged victim and agreement to a Civil Compromise can allow the court to dismiss the case entirely under qualifying statutes.
• Aggregation Defense: When prosecutors attempt to combine multiple incidents to reach a felony-level amount, we challenge whether the events were truly part of a single common scheme or plan.
• Mitigation & Diversion Strategies: When appropriate, we present broader life circumstances—such as financial stress, mental health concerns, or addiction—in support of reduced charges, diversion programs, or alternative resolutions that limit long-term damage to your record.

Throughout this process, communication is a priority. We explain what is happening in your case, what choices are available, and what the potential consequences of each option might be. Our attorneys draw on their experience as former prosecutors to advise you about how different proposals may be viewed by the court and the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s office.

What To Do After A Theft Arrest

What you do in the days after an arrest or citation can have a real impact on your case. Many people feel pressure to explain themselves to police, store security, employers, or friends, but speaking without legal guidance can create problems later. Taking a few careful steps now can help protect your rights and options.

It is generally wise to avoid discussing the details of the incident with law enforcement or anyone else until you have spoken with a defense lawyer. Even comments that seem harmless can be taken out of context or used to support a particular version of events. The same caution applies to social media. Posts, messages, and photos are often reviewed by investigators and may be misinterpreted.

The court will typically schedule an arraignment, often at the San Bernardino Justice Center or another courthouse within San Bernardino County, depending on where the incident allegedly took place. Missing this date can lead to a warrant, so it is important to keep track of any paperwork you receive and to attend all hearings on time. 

While the events are still fresh, consider writing down what you remember, including conversations, locations, and the names of any witnesses. Small details can become significant later, and a written record can be helpful when time has passed. If you contact us early, we can help you understand what to expect at each appearance.

Talk With Our San Bernardino Theft Defense Lawyers Today

If you are facing a theft or larceny accusation in the San Bernardino area, you do not have to navigate the process alone. At Newman & Allen, we bring years of criminal defense experience and the insight of former prosecutors to every case, and we focus on protecting the future you have worked hard to build.

When you contact us, you can expect a confidential conversation, clear explanations, and a plan tailored to your circumstances. There is no charge for your initial evaluation, and you are under no obligation to move forward if you decide we are not the right fit. If you are ready to speak with a theft attorney in San Bernardino who will take your situation seriously, reach out today.

Call (909) 328-6101 or reach out online to schedule your free, confidential evaluation with our defense team. Available 24/7.