Theft Lawyer Calabasas, CA. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they're facing criminal charges. You might even be facing multiple theft charges at once. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.
Even when all hope seems lost, there is an option who will fight for you: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our team of legal experts has the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team defending your freedom, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.
Talk to a theft crimes lawyer now at (800) 755-5174 or send us a message about your case for a private review of your case at no cost. Waiting too long to reach out can cost you everything.
Why You Need a Leading Calabasas, CA, Theft Defense Lawyer
You should never take theft allegations lightly, no matter what the specifics are. On your own, you're stuck trying to decipher a complex legal code and increase your risk of the following penalties:
- Prison Sentence: Most theft charges in Calabasas, CA, carry a potential jail sentence of six months or more.
- Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
- Loss of Employmnet: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
- Stained Reputation: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
- And more.
If you want to avoid all of this, you need a distinguished Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is ready to help. Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
Top Qualities of Our Calabasas, CA Theft Defense Attorneys
Picking the right Calabasas, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what you get when you call us — and the difference it will make for your case:
- A Team Of Former Prosecutors & Judges — We know exactly how the state builds a theft case because some of our attorneys have done it themselves. We use that inside knowledge to dismantle the prosecution's strategy.
- Extensive Court Relationships — With more than five decades of total legal experience, the state knows how hard we will fight for our clients and we know how to make use of our relationships to earn better deals for our clients.
- Prepared to Fight Your Case at Trial — No matter what the charge is, we prepare as if for a trial. This posture often produces better plea negotiations and dismissals — because the prosecution knows we're not bluffing.
- Record Expungement Services — We don't leave you behind after the verdict. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
- Terrific Reputation – well-respected amongst both clients and peers.
- Always Availalbe — We know that arrests don't happen on a schedule. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
- Completely Confidential — Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client privilege. Speak freely — we need the full story to build the strongest possible defense for you.
Every Theft Charge We Defend in Calabasas, CA
Click any charge below to navigate directly to a full breakdown of the law, consequences, and additional information.
Attempted Burglary | Attempted Robbery | Bribery | Burglary (Residential) | Burglary of a Vehicle | Carjacking | Commercial Burglary | Credit Card Fraud | Elder Financial Abuse | Embezzlement | Extortion | Forgery | Fraud / False Pretenses | Grand Theft | Grand Theft Auto | Grand Theft of a Firearm | Health Care Fraud | Home Health Fraud | Home Invasion Burglary | Hospice Fraud | Identity Theft | Insurance Fraud | Joyriding | Looting | Medicare Fraud | Money Laundering | Perjury | Petty Theft | Petty Theft with a Prior | Possession of Stolen Vehicle | Receiving Stolen Property | Robbery | Shoplifting (PC 459.5) | Theft from an Elder | Trespassing | Vandalism | Vehicle Theft | Welfare Fraud | White Collar Crimes
Theft Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, act fast: contact us now for a free, confidential consultation.
We cover all of the following types of charges and more:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
While there are many different theft case types in Calabasas, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property without their consent. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: For anything $950 or less, the charges will generally be petty theft, while higher values will normally be grand theft.
Fighting petty theft allegations is usually easier because the potential penalties are less severe (it's normally charged as a misdemeanor). On the other hand, defending grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. In either case, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.
Here's a breakdown of what distinguishes petty and grand theft:
| Criminal Charge | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Value Taken | $950 or Less | More than $950 |
| Charge Type? | Ordinarilly Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor or Felony |
| Misdemeanor Penalties | Up to six months in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines | Up to one year in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines |
| Felony Penalties | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines |
Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5
Proposition 47 was passed in 2014, defining and setting penalties for shoplifting. Prior to 2014, it was actually considered a form of burglary, instead of a distinct crime. A person commits shoplifting when they go into an open store in order to steal $950 or less worth of goods.
Before Prop 47, what we now call "shoplifting" was prosecuted as burglary — a felony. Since Proposition 47, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. That said, you could still face felony charges in some circumstances, such as if you have certain previous convictions on your record. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer can help protect you from the worst consequences.
Organized retail theft (either a crime ring or repeated instances of shoplifting) has been a target of recent California laws, and is prosecuted harshly in Calabasas, CA.
Shoplifting Potential Penalties:
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 6 months
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
- Other: Probation, banned from store
Defense options include: Lack of intent to steal, wrong identity, entrapment by loss prevention, Fourth Amendment violations during detention, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.
Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666
Petty theft charges are usually misdemeanors, but not always. Because of Penal Code § 666, a petty theft with a prior can be charged as a felony. This is one of the most common mechanisms used in Calabasas, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.
To charge PC § 666, the Calabasas, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the defendant engaged in petty theft; and (2) the suspect has previously been found guilty for certain crimes, mostly theft related — especially if the sentence included incarceration. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Qualifying Priors: Prior theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions
Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
We will fight against all sorts of vehicle theft crimes in Calabasas, CA. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's technically not its own charge. Grand theft auto comes from a section of the state's 'grand theft' law, which states that anyone who steals an automobile (regardless of its value) can be charged with grand theft.
If the prosecution is stating that someone took the vehicle and was planning to keep it for themselves, not return it, they're likely going to face grand theft auto charges. On the other hand, if they were only doing to drive it briefly and then bring it back, they're more likely to face charges of joyriding. While either joyriding or grand theft auto can be 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in Calabasas, CA, since the prosecution is more likely to assign that as a misdemeanor.
If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. As a parallel to the charge of receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Just owning or keeping the vehicle can result in these charges.
When you work with us, you'll get a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Reach out today to start making your case.
Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)
Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — it is a subcategory of grand theft that applies specifically to the theft of any motor vehicle, regardless of its value. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.
Grand theft auto charges often hinge on your intentions during the alleged theft — if you were going to bring it back, then it wasn't technically a theft, it was joyriding.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Calabasas, CA)
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Vehicle Code § 10851 is commonly charged with or in place of grand theft auto. It covers situations where the alleged offender both did and didn't intend to return the vehicle. If you deprive someone of their vehicle with any intentions, this law applies.
This charge is popular in Calabasas, CA, courts as either a plea deal or as its own charge.
Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. Despite the casual name, this is a serious criminal offense that is treated as a wobbler in California — it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.
In most circumstances, Calabasas, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. However, you can still face felony charges. This mostly applies to individuals with a criminal history, but not always.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Main Difference | Return the vehicle afterwards | Keep the vehicle forever |
| Usual Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215
All vehicle theft crime charges are a big deal, but carjacking in particular is a major one. If you allegedly used force or threats to take someone's car directly from them, you can be charged with carjacking. Because of the violent element, carjacking is always a felony and is not eligible for probation in many circumstances.
A carjacking conviction will also add a "strike" to your criminal record, which can increase future prison sentences.
Potential Penalties:
- Prison: 3, 5, or 9 years in state prison
- Enhancements: Additional years for weapon use or injury
- Three Strikes: Yes — counts as a strike offense
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Possession of a Stolen Vehicle — California Penal Code § 496d
It may be hard to believe, but you can face vehicle theft related charges without committing theft. If you are in possession of a vehicle when you knew or should have know it was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.
We see this charge often in cases where someone borrowed or bought a car without having access to its full history. The prosecution must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — a skillful vehicle theft crimes lawyer may use a strategy that raises doubts as to your knowledge.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
White collar crimes in Calabasas, CA, can look very different from each other, but they all share one thing in common: abuse of an organization for personal gain.
Many white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is the theft of money someone was supposed to manage for others, like an investment banker taking from a client's account. Money laundering can be done by an individual or an operation, and involves attempts to disguise illegal money as money that was legally earned. Meanwhile, bribery doesn't just involve taking money, but instead consists of one person giving another money in exchange for some sort of benefit.
Not all white-collar crimes are centered around the exchange of money, though (at least at first glance). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft involves stealing another person's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.
Forgery, Identity Theft, Bribery & More
Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — prison sentences, massive fines, major career setbacks, and permanent reputational damage. If you want to fight back against these consequences, you need a financial theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of California white collar crime law.
White Collar Crimes — Synopsis
Individual "white collar crimes" can look very different from each other. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. Calabasas, CA, because of its proximity to major financial and entertainment centers, sees some of California's most complex white collar prosecutions.
In contrast to other crime categories (like DUIs, where police may cite you immediately at a checkpoint), state investigators can spend a long time building a case before you are formally accused. Call us now if you have any reason to believe the police are looking into you. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.
Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503
Embezzlement is when someone legally can use property for certain purposes, but uses it for different ones. The main feature is the pre-existing lawful access — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.
Frequent embezzlement scenarios: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; an employee skimming from cash registers; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.
Possible Penalties:
- Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- Large Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
- Additional: Financial recompensation, loss of professional licenses
Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10
Money laundering is the process of making illegally obtained money appear to have come from a legitimate source. It typically involves three steps: placement (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).
California's money laundering statute specifically targets transactions over $5,000 when the alleged offender was aware that the money was dirty. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, risking up to two decades of prison time.
Potential Penalties (State):
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Fines: Up to $250,000 or twice the amount laundered
- Federal Add-On: Up to 20 years federal prison
Bribery — California Penal Code § 67–68 / § 92
You can face bribery charges for offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — elected officials, judges, legislators, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever position you're in, a Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to protect you from the prosecution.
Important: Whether you offered or accepted a bribe, you can be charged in Calabasas, CA. Even if the potential recipient declines the bribe, you could still face charges just for attempting it.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
- Public Officials: Permanent disqualification from office
- Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)
Forgery — California Penal Code § 470
Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. State law is broad and covers checks, money orders, stock certificates, deeds, wills, court orders, prescriptions, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.
Critical point: You can be charged with forgery even if no one was actually defrauded. The intent to defraud, combined with the creation or use of the fake item, is enough to be convicted.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Identity Theft — California Penal Code § 530.5
In Calabasas, CA, identity theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal identifying information — name, Social Security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or other data — for any unlawful purpose, including obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.
Crucially: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply taking and using another person's information without authorization is enough to violate state law. This makes it critical to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the particular of your situation.
Calabasas, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and often involve federal charges if the internet was involved, or the supposed victim and alleged offender were in different states.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Per Victim: Charges can stack — one count per victim
- Federal: Up to 15–30 years (aggravated cases)
Fraud Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
Fraud is a frequent white collar crime charge in Calabasas, CA, and can be divided into smaller categories of its own. Broadly speaking, a person who commits theft by lying about something so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.
Insurance fraud is one of the most common types of fraud. It involves lying to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. As an example, if someone were to hide their valuable property and claim it was stollen, that person can be charged with insurance fraud.
A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where someone takes advantage of government assistance programs by providing false information to them. An example of this would be claiming a child as a dependent to receive financial support, when the child has in fact moved out.
Another popular variation is credit card fraud. This one is a little different because instead of representing someone about themselves, for credit card fraud, normally a person is lying about the credit card they are using. If you allegedly took a credit card and used it without permission, you can face credit card fraud charges.
When you're on your own, trying to figure out what fraud charges you're facing can feel impossible. With a leading Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer, you have someone who can help you navigate through the complexity.
Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception
You could face accusations of fraud in Calabasas, CA, for a wide variety of actions — from simple misrepresentations to elaborate financial schemes. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to have experience not only with the state law, but also following financial trails.
Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532
Many "fraud" charges in Calabasas fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when a person lies to someone else, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. Theft by false pretenses is distinct because the supposed victim intentionally parts with their valuables, as opposed to robbery, where they are taken by force.
Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; pitching investments based on false information; lying about the condition of goods sold.
Because the amount defrauded can vary, so does the penalty. It depends on the how much was stolen — if the total value was more than $950, you are likely looking at grand theft (and possible felony) charges.
Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550
Insurance fraud involves knowingly making a false or misleading statement to an insurance company to obtain benefits, payments, or compensation you are not entitled to receive. Insurance fraud charges are always a big deal, and are often felonies in Calabasas, CA. An experienced theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and analyze all the evidence to help you find the best outcome possible
Typical forms include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; inflating repair cost claims; arson for insurance proceeds; fabricating injuries; double billing for a health service.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
- Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
- Additional: Loss of professional licenses
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
Credit card fraud charges in Calabasas, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. This includes using another individual's card without permission, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or illegally obtaining or selling card account information.
What to know about federal charges: You are likely to face both federal and state charges, especially when cards are used across state lines or the internet is involved. Federal penalties are significantly more severe, and our team of theft crime lawyers has experience handling both state and federal fraud cases.
Possible Penalties (State):
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Federal Prison: Up to 15 years (federal charges)
Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980
A person commits welfare fraud if they lie about or misrepresent themselves in order to get access to benefits from the government, such as food stamps or medical benefits.
Common examples: Failing to report income; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; Trading or selling food stamps; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.
Penalties for welfare fraud, if convicted, can result in fines, prison time, and required repayment of the value taken. A premier Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer can help show issues in the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $950 (typically): Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- Repayment: Full restitution to the government
Additional: Loss of future benefit eligibility
Hospice Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Hospice fraud accusations in Calabasas, CA, are very serious. They are often applied to healthcare practitioners who create fake requests for payment or prescribe unneeded treatments related to hospice. To qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must have a projected lifespan of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course — many hospice fraud cases are the result of these predictions being inaccurate.
This type of fraud is more often alleged towards providers over patients. Because healthcare professionals have more access to control billing and provide diagnoses, they are at higher risk of being accused of hospice fraud. These accusations are particularly dangerous because they are often charged in federal court in Calabasas, CA, meaning you're up against very difficult odds.
Important Note: Hospice fraud investigations frequently involve parallel criminal and civil proceedings. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. Providers are often unaware that an investigation is underway until a search warrant is executed.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus $13,000–$27,000 per false claim
- State Charges: Up to 5 years (CA Penal Code § 550)
- Additional: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal programs; license revocation
Medicare Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Medicare fraud allegations go beyond that of a typical theft. As the name would suggest, these are accusations that someone took undeserved benefits from the government's Medicare program. And as if regular theft crime allegations weren't bad enough, Medicare fraud is often tried at the federal level. If you want to protect your freedom, you'll need an expert Calabasas, CA theft lawyer who has your back.
While both providers and receivers of care can be convicted of medicare fraud, it's most often providers who are accused. This is especially devastating because of its career impact: you can lose your license and be excluded from working in a healthcare program. The federal prosecutor is supported by an equally strong federal team of investigators, who can conduct their job very quietly. If you find out that you're under investigation for Medicare fraud, it's urgent that you contact your Calabasas, CA theft lawyer immediately.
Warning: It's possible to be accused of Medicare fraud even when all forms of medical care were honest and legitimate. This can occur if a provider offers money to someone in exchange for accessing Medicare-sponsored services through that provider. You can be accused of breaking this law whether you gave or received the money.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (up to 20 if serious bodily injury results)
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus civil monetary penalties per claim
- Additional: Mandatory exclusion from all federal health care programs
Health Care Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.
You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California law specifically targets false or misleading statements made in connection with insurance claims, including the submission of multiple claims for a single loss and the preparation of false medical reports. Without an expert Calabasas, CA theft lawyer, you could be stuck trying to sift through mountains of medical billing records and other specialized evidence on your own. Doctors, billing organizations, office managers, and support staff have all found themselves accused of health care fraud in the past.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
- State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
- Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
- Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences
Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Home health fraud, like other health care fraud types, also consists of making false statements to an insurance or government health care entity. The difference is that it describes specific types of healthcare services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. In order to be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, a patient must be homebound and require specialized care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.
One example would be a patient who lied about being homebound in order to receive special benefits. A counterexample would be a home service provider who submitted claims to Medicare for services that were never provided. Home health fraud charges in Calabasas, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.
Critical Note: The Physician Self-Referral Law (Stark Law, 42 U.S.C. § 1395nn) prohibits physicians from referring Medicare patients to home health entities in which they have a financial interest. Outside of the criminal case, you can face fines, need to pay restitution, and be excluded from Medicare — to make matters worse, you can be convicted of violating this law even if you unintentionally broke it.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus penalties per false claim
- Administrative: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal; agency decertification
Violent Theft Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in Calabasas, CA. This can be the case when you're accused of robbery. Robbery occurs when one person threatens or attacks someone in order to take something from them. This is in contrast to burglary, the alleged theft occurred away from the alleged victim. Carjacking can be compared to grand theft auto in the same way.
There is another way violence and theft crimes can overlap, though: when an initially nonviolent theft collides with a person. Home invasion charges can start out as regular burglary, with the alleged offender not intending to commit violence, but that changes when they run into another person.
Extortion is a unique form of theft. If someone says they will hurt another person unless the alleged victim gives them money, that is extortion. This doesn't always need to include physical violence, but it can consist of any form of harm to the victim, including emotional or reputational. For example, if a person would commit extortion if she saw a man commit a crime, and threatened to turn him in if he didn't pay her.
Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft
When theft involves force, fear, or coercion, the penalties increase dramatically. These charges are always felonies and often carry strike designations. Your Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer should be someone who knows how to fight violent crime charges as well — at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience successfully defending against both.
Robbery — California Penal Code § 211
Robbery is a violent form of theft that involves either threatening or assaulting someone in order to take their belongings. All robbery charges in California are felonies.
California distinguishes between first-degree robbery (committed against someone in an inhabited structure, a taxi/rideshare driver, or while using an ATM) and second-degree robbery (all other cases). First-degree robbery carries significantly higher penalties.
Potential Penalties:
- 1st Degree Prison: 3, 4, or 6 years
- 2nd Degree Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Weapon Use: +3 to 10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony
Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518
A person can be convicted of extortion if they coerce someone using threats, rather than force. The goal of extortion is normally to acquire some sort of benefit, either financial or through an action of the victim. Not every extortion case involves threats of violence; several involve threats to harm someone's reputation instead.
Common examples: Threatening to falsely accuse someone of theft unless the property is given up; threatening to release private photos unless money is provided; threatening to harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Burglary Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA
Burglary is often charged along with theft in Calabasas, CA. California defines burglary as entering a location without permission in order to steal something or commit another crime. Ordinarily, this is a building, like a convenience store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly broke a car window to steal a wallet sitting on the seat, that would be considered burglary of a vehicle.
No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, defenses to burglary charges can hinge on whether or not you had permission to be in the structure, and what your intentions were while you were there.
Burglary Related Charges
Shoplifting also involves the theft of items from a store, similar to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. But after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. Today, shoplifting is no longer a subset of burglary offenses in Calabasas, CA, and faces more lenient penalties if convicted.
Another related charge is vandalism. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by breaking a window to in the process of a theft. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Calabasas, CA, making it all the more important to get an expert theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.
Lastly, there is a theft charge you can be accused of in Calabasas, CA, even if you didn't steal something. How can this be? Receiving stolen property charges. This applies when someone supposedly buys, hides, or receives something that they know was taken unlawfully from another person.
Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges
Calabasas, CA burglary charges can be wildly different from one another, and may not even involve theft — you can be charged with burglary for entering a wide range of structures with the intent to commit a crime inside, even if you never actually steal anything.
Residential Burglary (First Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence while planning to commit a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. Your motivation for entering the location is the key to burglary charges.
This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and Calabasas, CA courts treat it extremely harshly because it involves violation of someone's home. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle
Potential Penalties:
- Prison Sentence: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony strike
- Probation: Generally not an option for first-degree
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Commercial Burglary (Second Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
Although less serious than first-degree burglary, second-degree burglary (AKA commercial burglary) charges are still not to be taken lightly. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Your theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA will need to be acutely aware of the difference between shoplifting and commercial burglary — this could be key in getting your charges reduced, if possible.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Charge Type: Wobbler
Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459
Vehicle burglary is similar to residential or commercial burglary — it also involves unlawfully entering a location, but in this case, that location is a vehicle. A typical example of this would be an alleged offender breaking into a car to steal a backpack or wallet within. The details of this charge are different from case to case, because burglary of a vehicle could either be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.
Important note: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, but the burglary enhancement requires that the vehicle was secured in some way.
Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211
A home invasion occurs when someone commits burglary of a residential structure while the occupants are present, often involving threats or violence. This is treated as one of the gravest offenses in the California penal code, and prosecutors pursue maximum penalties. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.
While it's possible to be charged with home invasion on its own, it's rare — more often, they'll be accompanied with additional theft and/or violence charges. If you are up against home invasion charges, you need the most experienced criminal defense team available, and you need them now.
Possible Penalties:
- Burglary Base: 2, 4, or 6 years
- Robbery Add-On: Additional 2–5 years
- Weapon Enhancement: Additional 3–10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — multiple strikes possible
Property & Other Offenses
Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing
These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. Your Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer will need to balance all of the allegations and form a narrative to defeat them.
Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496
While theft-related, receiving stolen property cases are their own challenge. Buying, selling, or disguising something that was stolen can lead to these charges.
Receiving stolen property charges can fall apart if you can prove you weren't aware that the item was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items that are cheaply listed, without receipts, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594
Vandalism is the malicious defacement, damage, or destruction of another person's property. It is often charged alongside burglary when, for example, a window is broken to gain entry to a home or vehicle. It also applies to graffiti, which is one of the most commonly prosecuted forms of vandalism in Calabasas, CA.
While many theft charges become felonies if more than $950 is stolen, a vandalism charge can become a felony if just $400 or more worth of damage is done.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
- Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
- Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
- Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service
Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602
Trespassing is another property crime, though it doesn't involve stealing (directly). Trespassing is when one person goes onto someone else's property when they aren't supposed to be, and/or refuses to exit. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.
Without compounding charges, trespassing is ordinarilly charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, when combined with other charges (particularly burglary), the trespassing element can be used to establish elements of more serious offenses. Defenses often hinge on whether permission was given or reasonably believed to exist.
Perjury — California Penal Code § 118
Intentionally providing false information to the authorities can result in a perjury charge. While this is not a theft crime per se, it's frequently charged in conjunction with them. This is because it's common for alleged offenders to be dishonest about information that could make them look guilty, not realizing that misleading the police can actually make things worse in the end.
Do not make this mistake: You don't want to dig a deeper hole for yourself — if you're in a situation where you don't want to give an honest answer, just stay silent and ask for your theft crimes lawyer to help you out.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
Specialized & Enhanced Charges
Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes
These charges often carry enhanced penalties beyond standard theft offenses, and require attorneys with specific knowledge of the statutes involved.
Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)
California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. Due to this stealing even a low-value firearm will end up with a felony charge. On top of that, a grand theft of a firearm felony can count for a strike on your criminal record if convicted.
To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The combination of state and federal exposure makes this one of the most legally complex theft charges you can face. And it's even more essential to work with an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.
Potential Penalties:
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Strike: Serious felony — potential strike offense
- Federal: Additional federal charges possible
Theft from an Elder / Financial Elder Abuse — Welfare & Institutions Code § 15610.30
If the alleged victim was 65 or older, you might be up against elevated penalties. You can be accused of financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) if you were allegedly in a position of trust for an older adult, and took advantage of their money.
The prosecution in Calabasas, CA, does not take these charges lightly and usually pursues harsh penalties. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. People convicted of financial elder abuse often also have to repay the alleged victim, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.
Common scenarios: Caregiver taking money from a client's account; family member using power of attorney to take money; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.
Potential Penalties:
- Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
- Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
- Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
- Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court
Looting — California Penal Code § 463
Looting charges arise when theft or burglary occurs during a state of emergency, local emergency, evacuation order, or major disaster. California Penal Code § 463 treats looting as an aggravated form of the underlying theft or burglary offense, with mandatory enhanced penalties.
These charges are often looked upon very negatively in Calabasas, CA. The state will often pursue looting charges beyond what it would have for ordinary burglary or theft offenses. These acts are viewed as particularly heinous, and penalties can be severe. If you allegedly broke into a business building during a wildfire and took some of its merchandise, you could face looting allegations.
Potential Penalties (Enhanced):
- Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
- Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
- Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
- Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods
Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery
Even if the supposed burglary or robbery failed, attempted theft charges will still apply. An attempt requires: (1) the specific intent to commit the crime, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — regardless of whether it was successful or not.
Under most circumstances, in California, if you are convicted of attempting a crime you will be given half the sentence of the underlying offense. So attempted robbery carries half the prison exposure of robbery. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.
Attempted burglary and attempted robbery are still strike offenses in California. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.
Regardless of what charge you're facing, when you reach out to our firm, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, who has the training and experience needed to find a path forward. Together, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.
Facing Theft Allegations? These Are Your Next Steps
You need to take these accusations seriously. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, the alleged victim is accusing you, and you need to defend your reputation as well as your innocence. Without help, the odds can seem insurmountable.
But you have an ally. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. With one of our Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyers on your case, you'll get honest, personalized legal advice on how to achieve the best outcome possible. To get started, use the five steps below to protect your freedom and avoid common pitfalls:
1. Comply With the Police
Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. Be polite and respectful during the process. Fighting back can only make things worse.
2. Keep Calm and Don't Talk
There's a chance you'll be interviewed or interrogated – don't talk. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be charged with perjury.
3. Reach Out to a Calabasas, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP
In California, people who have been arrested are given three phone calls. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. When you hire an attorney early on, you're increasing your opportunities for a favorable deal or case dismissal. We are available at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
4. Secure Bail for Release
Your lawyer can help argue for your release at a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will argue against the prosecution for your release. Your rights and freedom matter, no matter what you've been accused of.
5. Cooperate With Your Attorney to Create a Defense Strategy
Finally, you work with your attorney to craft a strong defense. A skilled theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, will hear your side of the story, negotiate for deals with the state, and fight for a dismissal whenever possible.
Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges
As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy needs to be tailored to the specific details, circumstances, and allegations. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Calabasas, CA.
Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases
One of the most powerful defenses in any theft case is the absence of criminal intent. In Calabasas, CA, intent to commit theft specifically requires someone to plan to permanently take someone else's property away. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.
A related defense is the "claim of right" defense, where someone states that they believed they were allowed to take the property. This applies as long as they honestly believed they were allowed to, even if they were incorrect. If a defendant sincerely believed the property was theirs, owed to them as payment, or that they had permission to take it, this can negate the required criminal intent. The belief does not have to be correct; it only has to be genuine. Additional intent-based defenses include: mistake of fact (the defendant took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).
Key point: This is a major hurdle for the prosecution in any theft case. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. It is often the strongest available defense, especially in cases involving disagreements regarding property ownership, where one person honestly believed they had a right to use property when they didn't.
Defense Application:
- Grand Theft: Charges may not apply if there was no intention to keep the allegedly stolen item
- Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
- Fraud / False Pretenses: Can apply when the defendant didn't know that what they were saying was false
- Receiving Stolen Property: Challenges knowledge that property was stolen
Illegal Search & Seizure in Theft/Burglary Cases
If police searched your car, home, or person without a valid warrant or legal justification, you may have been the victim of an illegal search and/or seizure. In theft and burglary cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If searches broke the law, the evidence can be suppressed and the state may need to drop charges.
Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: searches conducted without either a warrant or just cause; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause leading to an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that exceeded the scope of a valid warrant. In Calabasas, CA, your defense attorney can file a motion to throw out any evidence the prosecution acquired through improper means — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.
If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. Even partial suppression — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can substantially change the outcome. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Calabasas, CA, courts, and are a standard component of aggressive defense in all property crime cases.
Suppression Scenarios:
- Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
- Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, permission, or a recognized exception such as probable cause
- Digital Evidence / Cell Phones: Require a warrant under Riley v. California (2014)
- Fruit of the Poisonous Tree: Evidence derived from an illegal search may also be excluded
False Accusation / Misidentification
The Calabasas, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can come from personal disagreements, cases of mistaken identity, mistaken assumptions about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Even if you're innocent, you're still at risk of going to prison for something you didn't do — without a strong defensive strategy, you're gambling with your freedom.
False accusations in Calabasas, CA, often aren't the result of malice, but of a witness making an error. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — most notably across racial lines, in scenarios of poor visibility, or when things moved too fast. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Calabasas, CA, court.
Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: providing evidence that proves the accused could not have been present because they were in another location; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; attacking the character of alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and highlighting inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.
If you are falsely accused: Do not confront witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without your theft attorney present. Statements made to investigators — even truthful ones — can be mischaracterized, taken out of context, or used in unexpected ways. Before speaking to the police, call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley. We're here to protect your rights and defend your innocence.
Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the Calabasas, CA, prosecutor must prove you knew the property was stolen. We will challenge whether or not you had this knowledge — it's common for people to make purchases without being aware of how the seller got the item.
Consent / Permission — Consent regarding your use of the property is a strong defense in Calabasas, CA, theft cases. In cases where the alleged offender did take the object or enter the property, but had the right to do so, this can be a highly effective defense.
Constitutional Violations — We won't presume that all the evidence collected for your case is legitimate — we'll review everything and look for opportunities to have the evidence against you removed.
Sentencing Alternatives — For many first-time offenders, California offers sentencing alternatives that can keep you out of prison by participating. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.
Arguing the Value of Property — The difference between petty theft and grand theft — misdemeanor vs. felony — can hinge on the dollar value of what was allegedly stolen. You shouldn't face charges that are disproportionate to the alleged act.
Theft Crime Expungement / Record Clearance — California Penal Code § 1203.4
Whatever your past is, you have a future. And we want to help you make the most of it. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, as long as you've finished probation, you can ask for a guilty or no contest plea to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully completed all terms of probation, including fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — in a newly added requirement — in several cases, must not have served time in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).
If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. For those whose cases were dismissed without conviction, a separate petition under Penal Code § 851.91 may be available to seal the underlying arrest record entirely.
Here are some of the advantages of getting your theft conviction expunged: In particular, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. However, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it doesn't allow gun ownership, doesn't prevent the conviction from impacting future cases, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in Calabasas, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.
Critical Note: Even after typically California expungement proceedings under § 1203.4, your criminal record can still be seen by the police and certain other organizations. If your goal is the total removal of the record, to be able to legally own a gun again, or clearing a prior strike, you will need a different method of expungement. By talking to a theft conviction expungement attorney, you get help with exploring what other possibilities could help in your situation.
Relief Options:
- PC § 1203.4: Dismissal after successful probation completion
- PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (1 year post-conviction)
- PC § 851.91: Arrest record sealing where no conviction resulted
- SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
- Limitations: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases
Calabasas, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Calabasas, California?
The primary distinction is the value of the property allegedly taken. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. Anything over $950, guns, or vehicles all result in grand theft charges, which can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Grand theft charges will require elite legal representation in particular, though you will always need a theft crimes lawyer to defend you, regardless of the specifics.
Is it possible to expunge a theft conviction in California?
Often, yes. For probation sentences, expungement is often offered conditionally upon your completion. If you want to leave the past behind and move on with your life, this can be a major step forward. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.
What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Calabasas, CA?
First-time shoplifting charges in California are typically misdemeanors under Proposition 47 (for amounts under $950). Many first-time offenders are eligible for diversion programs that can result in a dismissal upon completing community service or a theft prevention course. Our theft crimes attorneys can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.
I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?
If the charge you are facing is one of receiving stolen property, as a part of securing a conviction the prosecution needs to prove that you knew (or should have known) that the property was stolen. If you honestly didn't know and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, that is a strong defense. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can lessen the strength of your defense, which is why an attorney is essential.
How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Calabasas, CA?
Extremely. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have any prior convictions, you may also face enhanced sentencing. Get in touch with one of our theft crimes lawyers immediately if you're facing this charge.
What is a "wobbler" offense in California?
The state of California defines several offenses as "wobblers," which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecuting attorney makes this call based on the circumstances of the alleged crime. A large portion of theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. One of the most important things a theft crimes attorney can do is push for misdemeanor treatment of wobbler charges, which dramatically reduces potential consequences.
Will I go to jail for a theft charge?
You can avoid jail in many cases, actually. Calabasas, CA courts have sentencing alternatives that will give you an alternative to incarceration, particularly for misdemeanors and first-time offenders. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. Your lawyer can make a major difference in this regard, and working with an experienced one is essential. Contact our firm to review what options exist in your case.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Yes. In California, you can be convicted of burglary for trespassing for the purposes of committing theft or a felony. Whether or not you committed theft doesn't matter — if prosecutors can prove you entered with criminal intent, you can be convicted of burglary even if you left empty-handed. Because of this, intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is critical to burglary defense.
Looking for a Calabasas, CA, Theft Lawyer? Call Right Away.
You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Calabasas, CA, legal system. Our firm is prepared to defend you — no matter when you need us. Contact us now for a free, confidential case review.
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