Petty Theft

• Whether a crime is determined as petty theft or grand theft is determined by the value of the goods stolen. Anything less than $950 in value is considered petty theft and is booked as a misdemeanor. First-time offenders are often charged with a maximum of one year in jail, restitution and approximately $200 in fines. But generally, first-time offenders are able to avoid jail completely. However, petty theft with a prior conviction can carry a felony charge.
  
  

Grand Theft

• Grand Theft is defined as "the unlawful taking of another's property valued above $950," according to California Penal Code 487. A person who commits grand theft may be charged with a felony that is punishable by a year in county jail or 16 months in state prison. In addition to jail time, a person guilty of grand theft is likely to face penalties such as fines, retribution, court-ordered counseling and probation.
  
  

Charges

• If a person is found guilty of theft in California, the jury must unanimously agree as to whether he committed grand theft or petty theft. If they can't unanimously agree that a person committed grand theft, but agree that a person committed a theft, he is convicted of petty theft under California law.
  
  

Forgery

• If forgery was involved with check stealing, there could be additional penalties. Forgery is clarified as intentionally defrauding someone by altering a written document. When it comes to forgery, the value and circumstances play a part in whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or a felony. However, if there is a prior conviction and a substantial value, it is charged as a felony.