Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Re: Petty theft?

Since your question jumps to the verdict stage before the procedure for determining guilt has taken place it appears as though you believe you will be found guilty, or you feel you are guilty, or you told the Police you stole the ipod and confessed to the crime of petty theft. Before you jump to sentencing I suggest you ask yourself some basic questions, such as: Did you steel the ipod? if you bought it then, did you know the ipod was stolen when you purchased it? Also, Did the Police question you about it and if they did were your parents or guardian present when you were questioned? Did you confess to the Police that you stole the ipod? Did you confess to the Police that you purchased the ipod and knew it was stolen? Did you confess to a crime that you did not commit? If you confessed to buying or receiving stolen property then why aren't you also being charged with receiving stolen property?

You need to speak with an attorney before jumping to the verdict stage of the process and I suggest you speak with one as soon as possible. If you are a minor then you must take your parents or guardian with you when you speak with an attorney. I suggest you talk with your parents or guardian and then all you see an attorney. Generally initial consultations are not expensive and some attorneys do not charge for them at all. It is important you explain your specific circumstances to the attorney so they can make an evaluation of your case and what options are available to you. If you can not afford an attorney tell the Judge and the court will appoint you a public defender. Then you and your parents or guardian need to talk with the Public defender so they can properly evaluate your case.

Theft crimes are divided into two degrees: Grand theft and Petty theft. Grand theft occurs when the value of the property is $400.00 or more. Petty theft is considered all other thefts that are not grand theft. Depending on your age the court could charge you as an adult or as a minor. If charged as an adult you could face up to a one thousand dollar fine ($1,000.00) fine and incarceration in the county jail for up to a maximum of 6 months. However that generally does not occur especially on a first offense. If you are charged as a minor the sentence can be determined by the Judge's discretion and it would generally be less than what an adult faces.

Talk to your parents or your guardian and see an attorney immediately and find out your specific situation under your circumstances and stop wasting time on the internet. You need an attorney. Good luck!