Grand Theft vs. Petty Theft

Petty Theft. Grand theft is a more severe offense of stealing property, money or an item of higher monetary value and is considered a minor felony in many states. Petty theft is a less serious offense and is often considered a misdemeanor.

1. What is the difference between grand theft and petty theft?
2. What type of crime is grand theft?
3. How much do you have to steal for it to be considered grand theft?
4. What is grand theft in Canada?
5. What is an example of petty theft?
6. What dollar amount is petty theft?
7. What evidence is needed for theft?
8. What happens when you go to court for petty theft?
9. How can I prove someone stole cash from me?
10. What happens if someone presses charges on you for theft?
11. How much is bail for grand theft?
12. What is the sentence for theft?

What is the difference between grand theft and petty theft?

What is the difference between grand theft and petty theft under California law? Petty theft is when someone unlawfully takes less than $950 of cash or goods from someone else. When the stolen property is worth $950 or more, it becomes grand theft.

What type of crime is grand theft?

Grand theft under California Penal Code Section 487(a) is defined as the illegal or unlawful taking of another person's property which is valued in excess of $950. This crime can be charged as either a felony or a misdemeanor.

How much do you have to steal for it to be considered grand theft?

Laws in many states consider a theft to be grand theft when: The property taken is worth more than a minimum amount, perhaps $500-$1,000 or more. Property is taken directly from a person, but by means other than force or fear. (If force or fear were used, the crime would be robbery.)

What is grand theft in Canada?

In Canada, there are two categories regarding theft: Over $5,000 and theft under $5,000. If the theft is over $5,000, it is considered more serious and is an indictable offence that could put you in prison for up to 10 years. ...

What is an example of petty theft?

The most common example of petty theft is where a person steals from a business or a retail store by placing the merchandise in a pocket or purse. However, many other acts can be classified as petty theft. It doesn't necessarily have to involve the actual lifting of property.

What dollar amount is petty theft?

California law defines petty theft as the theft of any property with a value of $950 or less. Petty theft generally is a misdemeanor offense.

What evidence is needed for theft?

Intent. In virtually every criminal case, the prosecution must prove that the defendant had a particular intent. Theft, for example, requires that the defendant intend to take an item and not return it. The intent to achieve a certain outcome makes it a “specific intent” crime.

What happens when you go to court for petty theft?

Petty theft is a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or up to a $1,000.00 fine. Your first appearance will be your arraignment. ... summary probation, a fine, restitution to the victim, community service, and theft classes. At times, the offer will go down if you plead not guilty at the arraignment.

How can I prove someone stole cash from me?

If someone has stolen money and you want him held criminally responsible – and hopefully return the money – you normally need to contact the police to file a complaint. This includes filling out a police report and presenting the evidence that you have.

What happens if someone presses charges on you for theft?

Once theft charges have been filed against you, you will be summoned to appear in court. ... If you fail to appear in court at the designated date and time, a warrant could be issued for your arrest. For serious charges (felonies), an arrest warrant can be issued when the charges are filed.

How much is bail for grand theft?

The bail amount for grand theft, if value exceeds $950, or with qualifying prior conviction(s) if value does not exceed $950, is $20,000. How much is bail for grand theft, if amount of theft is over $50,000 (PC 487(a)(b))? The bail amount for grand theft, if amount of theft is over $50,000, is $45,000.

What is the sentence for theft?

Misdemeanor grand theft carries a basic punishment of 3 years of informal probation, up to six months in jail, a $1000 fine, or both. Felony grand theft can be punished by16 months, 2 or 3 years in state prison. Theft charges are often based on weak evidence that must be vigorous challenged.