Petty Theft vs. Grand Theft

Sample law:

Petty Theft – Usually charged as a misdemeanor for first time offenses, Petty Theft is the act of stealing goods valued at less than $400. The punishments for Petty Theft can range from fines of up to $400 and/or imprisonment in County jail for up to 6 months. Two or more offenses of Petty Theft may be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the value of the goods stolen and the time that has lapsed since the previous Petty Theft charge. Convictions for repeated Petty Theft offenders may include state prison sentences of up to 16 months. Petty Theft that involves stolen goods valued at under $50 may, in some cases, be reduced to an infraction and a criminal record avoided.

· Grand Theft – Charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, Grand Theft occurs when the value of the merchandise stolen is greater than $400. Grand Theft includes automobiles and other large-ticket items. Grand Theft is usually punishable by up to one year in County jail or a maximum sentence of 16 months in state prison.