Charges rejected
Felony domestic violence arrest. The prosecutor declined to file charges at the arraignment.
2022Home / Theft & Shoplifting Defense · Los Angeles
Theft and shoplifting defense lawyer in Los Angeles.
A theft charge can follow you into every job application. For many first-time cases, the goal is to avoid a conviction altogether through diversion or dismissal, and the earlier we start, the better the options.
Common theft charges
- Shoplifting and petty theft, generally misdemeanors when the value is $950 or less.
- Grand theft (over $950), which can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony.
- Employee theft and embezzlement.
- Receiving stolen property and fraud-related theft.
Under recent changes to California law, people with prior theft convictions can face felony charges even for lower-value thefts, and values from separate incidents can sometimes be added together.
Avoiding a conviction
For many first-time misdemeanor theft cases, judges can grant diversion: you complete conditions such as a class or community service, and the case is dismissed. Other cases can be reduced or dismissed based on problems with the evidence, such as video that does not show what the report claims, or a lack of intent.
The store's demand letter
Retailers often send a separate civil demand letter asking for money. That letter is not part of the criminal case, and paying it does not make the charges go away. Talk to a lawyer before responding.
Free 20-minute consultation: (310) 415-9499. We speak English and Farsi.
Case results
Recent results.
Selected outcomes from the firm’s closed matters.
Dismissed
Firearm discharge case dismissed after the client completed diversion. No conviction.
2023Dismissed
Criminal case against a commercial property owner and its company over a cannabis tenant. Dismissed as to both.
2022Dismissed
Property owner charged with building-permit violations tied to a tenant's dispensary. Case dismissed.
2025Funds returned
Cash seized in a raid aimed at a neighbor was returned to the client, who was never charged.
2023Results depend on the facts of each case. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Client details are withheld for privacy.
Common questions
Questions clients ask first.
General information about California law, not legal advice for your situation.
Is shoplifting a felony in California?
Usually not. Shoplifting $950 or less is generally a misdemeanor, but prior theft convictions or higher values can lead to felony charges.
Can a theft charge be dismissed?
Often, yes, especially for first-time cases through diversion, or when the evidence is weak.
Do I have to pay the store's civil demand letter?
It is a separate civil claim and does not resolve the criminal case. Get advice before paying or responding.
Client reviews
5.0 stars on Google from 46 clients.
Very grateful to Mr. Manavi for representing me against a insurance company that was trying to deny me equitable payment in the repair of my childhood home after a negligent plumber. Mr. Manavi advocated fiercely, expertly, and strategically to secure a favorable outcome.
Saman had great attention to detail when it came to my case. … Not only was he accurate in the timeline I provided for my case but he was very clear in communicating his strategy and made me feel very comfortable with my case.
He was always available when I needed him and kept me informed throughout the entire process. He explained things clearly, but was also very understanding and easy to talk to, which made a stressful situation feel a lot more manageable.
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