Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Coupon Value in Grand Theft charge

Im being charged with Grand Theft by Embezzlement for taking 300 coupon sheets from a movie store I was working at. They are claiming over $20,000 in losses which I know is going to ruin any chance I have of getting a plea bargain that doesnt include jail time.

The exact wording on the coupon is as follows: top of the coupon states 'free game or movie rental' fine print is 'good on all movies and games. limit one coupon per membership account per visit. Valid at all hollywood video stores, with the exception of game crazy stores. Membership terms and conditions apply. Customer responsible for the applicable taxes and additional rental period charges. See store for details. Cash value 1/100 of a cent. This coupon must be relinquished at the time of redemption and may not be printed, reproduced, sold or transfered.

The ammount that they're claiming is the maximum ammount the coupon could be used for ($7) although the average person is going to get something for ($3). I dont know if theres any way to try and argue the value, but I would really appreciate it if anyone has any suggestions.

Thanks so much my court date is Tueday and I have a dieing fiance that I dont want to leave behind


Asked on 9/10/06, 5:16 am

3 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: Coupon Value in Grand Theft charge

The value they will use is the max value. Too bad about your fiance. Hope your lawyer is good. Oh, and this is only about the 10th time you have asked your question here on LawGuru.

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Answered on 9/10/06, 11:32 am
OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES OCEAN BEACH ASSOCIATES

Re: Coupon Value in Grand Theft charge

What is the evidence of guilt? Is the evidence excludable? What is your arrest record like? You're best chance of not getting jail time is retaining an attorney. Call me directly at 16192223504. 19 years experience in all major Califronia Counties.

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Answered on 9/10/06, 7:16 pm
Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

Re: Coupon Value in Grand Theft charge

The only worthwhile 'suggestion' is to get an experienced attorney, you're going to need one to minimize the chances of long jail time. There are no magic words or incantations anyone can tell you to say to make this go away. If people could defend themselves effectively, there wouldn't be attorneys. Recognize your problem and need for help, then get it. Feel free to contact me if interested in doing this right. If you can't afford private counsel, then apply for the public defender.

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Answered on 9/11/06, 2:17 pm


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