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Westminster Theft Lawyer

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Westminster Theft Lawyer

Petty theft and shoplifting are the most commonly prosecuted crimes in California, even for a small town like Westminster. In today’s hectic society, with all its hustle and bustle, it’s not uncommon for someone to walk out of a store and forget to pay for something, or accidentally place an item in their pocket. However, even such a momentary lapse in judgment can get you in trouble. A reputable Orange County criminal defense attorney like Ms. Johnson-Norris can help. In order for something to be considered petty theft in Westminster, as well as in California, there are certain elements that must be present. One of those elements is that the value of the item taken must be at nine hundred fifty dollars or less. If the value of the item(s) stolen is more than nine hundred fifty dollars, then the crime would be considered grand theft as opposed to petty theft.

Sometimes money is tight, and you’re just trying to help your family; so you might be inclined to do some things that you normally wouldn’t even consider. Maybe you find yourself acting on impulse, and later regretting your action; but when you have an experienced Westminster theft defense attorney like our criminal defense lawyer on your side, you can keep your peace of mind. She can keep you from going to jail, or being treated like a criminal.

Some possible defenses that could be used when charged with petty theft include that you did not have the intentions of stealing the item. For example, say you were someone incredibly busy or preoccupied with another task, when you accidentally placed an item you had not paid for inside of your coat pocket. Right as you were leaving the store, the alarms went off and they had you convicted for petty theft. Because you did not actually intend to steal anything that is a potential defense that could be used. Another defense that could be used for theft would be that you had the permission of the rightful owner of the property taken to take it.

An attorney with a proven track record like Orange County theft defense lawyer Ms. Johnson-Norris knows that California provides many pretrial diversion programs for those accused of first-time petty theft or shoplifting crimes as an alternative to prosecution. Those who are eligible for diversion will generally have to fulfill certain requirements, such as paying a fine, community service and restitution. Upon successful completion of your agreement with the District Attorney, Ms. Johnson-Norris will make sure you face minimal penalties for petty theft.

If diversion is not an option, she can negotiate a plea bargain, or defend your case at trial if that’s what works best for your case. Plea bargains typically involve pleading guilty in exchange for lesser charges, or receiving a reduced sentence. Call the Johnson Criminal Law Group at (949) 622-5522 now, and get the attention your case deserves. She has earned a reputation in the Westminster community as an outstanding advocate for her clients.

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Criminal Defense Case Results

Mr. R was charged with embezzling close to $100,000 as a utility salesperson using a scheme to steal customers’ identities. Client avoided any jail time and received probation.

Mr. P was charged with embezzling equipment from John Wayne Airport while working as a contractor. Our office negotiated a civil compromise, resulting in the dismissal of felony charges and sealing his arrest record.

Mr. W. was charged with eight counts, including domestic violence, child endangerment, and criminal threats. Our office negotiated an offer of one year in therapy and then a dismissal of all charges.

Mr. H. was found by police passed out in his vehicle with drugs out in the open. Our office was successful in obtaining a diversion out of the criminal justice system and ultimately a dismissal.

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Refreshing & Life-Changing Experience

Lauren Johnson-Norris changed my life and my family’s in September 2014. I was a troubled young girl with some convictions on my record from my early adult life. I have grown older and changed my life but my past kept rearing its ugly head. I started researching expungement and found Ms. Johnson-Norris, and I am so glad I did. She treated me like a person and as I told her about myself she really engaged in my situation and I felt I was not some number to her but a real person. She expunged two felonies I had. One of them the courts did not want to expunge, but Ms. Johnson-Norris would not take no for an answer and fought for me! She always kept me posted on what was going on. I believe God led me to her. She is very talented and knows what she is doing. She is extremely professional and is not only after your money. She has a heart under her tough Lawyer position that she does so well. She cleared my record and gave me hope for my future, my husband’s and my son! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND HER. If you had a rough past and are trying to change your life. Go see Ms. Johnson-Norris; she knows what she is doing.

A.M., a criminal client

I want to thank Ms. Johnson-Norris, especially, for all her help during this difficult time. When we could not see the end of the tunnel, she helped us and guided us through the exit. Thank her not only for her professional help but for her emotional and sympathetic support. God bless her.

Parent of a juvenile crime client

I really appreciate everything she has done for me; I cannot thank her enough! Ms. Johnson-Norris did an absolutely thorough job by answering any and all questions that I had. She called me with updates and preferences on how I should be handling the case, which made the whole process very reassuring. The staff was very up to date with all of the follow-up information that was involved with my case that was also extremely beneficial. Ms. Johnson-Norris had a very reassuring aspect about her that made it very easy to let her handle the case. If anything were to go wrong with anyone I am associated with, she will be the lawyer of choice. I really appreciate everything that she has done for me, I can not thank her enough!

Mr. D., a criminal defense client

Ms. Johnson-Norris was recommended to me by many sources. She was the perfect fit, financially and professionally. I did what she told me to do to get the best possible resolution and it definitely paid off. I would recommend Lauren Johnson-Norris to anyone and am truly grateful for her services. She gave me peace of mind in some bad times. Thanks, Ms. Johnson-Norris!

A client charged with an alcohol-related misdemeanor

Thank you so much for all your help with our case. It was a pleasure meeting you and I appreciate all you’ve done for my family. You are the best attorney that we could have and we are so grateful that we met you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

A juvenile delinquency client’s parent

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Criminal Defense FaQ

What immediate steps will you take to protect my rights?

We provide immediate crisis command by reviewing the allegations against you and intervening with law enforcement to prevent further exposure. From the moment you retain the Firm, we act as your shield, managing all communications and executing a decisive strategy to protect your liberty and reputation.

We prioritize discretion and exposure management. We understand that a public allegation can be as damaging as a conviction; therefore, our strategy focuses on minimizing the visibility of your case while challenging the prosecution’s narrative to preserve your standing in the community.

We begin by meticulously reviewing the allegations to determine if the conduct even constitutes a crime under the law. We then scrutinize the prosecution’s evidence against the highest standard — proof beyond a reasonable doubt. By analyzing the “who, what, when, where, and how,” we identify the natural questions a jury will have, allowing us to build an expert strategy that derails the prosecutor’s narrative.

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Yes, our firm offers comprehensive legal services in Orange County with a unique focus on “crossover” cases where criminal and juvenile law intersect. Johnson Criminal Law Group provides the specialized expertise necessary to navigate investigations that threaten parental rights and family stability.

When you partner with Johnson Criminal Law Group, you receive 24/7 responsiveness and a clear, strategic plan designed to resolve your legal emergency decisively. We balance aggressive defense strategies with genuine human connection, ensuring you are treated with the respect and transparency you deserve during a crisis

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