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Theft Lawyer North Hollywood, CA. Being arrested for theft is just the beginning . If you're facing theft allegations, the system can move against you extremely fast. Without help, it's easy to find yourself in a spot where you feel hopeless.

Even when all hope seems lost, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our lawyers have what it takes to guard your freedom against the prosecution. With a North Hollywood, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team building your defense, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.

Talk to an attorney today at (800) 755-5174 or connect with us online for a free, confidential consultation. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.

How a North Hollywood, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

Theft crime accusations are always a big deal, regardless of whether or not you're innocent. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to figure out a complicated legal system and make it more likely that you'll face the following:

1. Prison Sentence: Jail time is a common consequence for theft in North Hollywood, CA.
2. Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
3. Loss of Employmnet: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
4. Stained Reputation: You can face unfair and unjust labels that get in the way of your moving on with your life.
5. And more.

If you want to avoid all of this, you need a distinguished North Hollywood, 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 North Hollywood, CA Theft Defense Attorneys

Picking the right North Hollywood, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what you get when you call us — and why it matters for your theft 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 know common weak points and how to attack the prosecution's case.
• Extensive Court Relationships — With over 50 years of combined courtroom experience, we have built up relationships with the North Hollywood, CA prosecutors and judges, which we will use when securing plea deals.
• Defenses Built for Trial — We prepare every case as if it's going to trial. Even if your case doesn't end up in trial, this gives us more leverage for negotiations.
• 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.
• Excellent Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
• Available 24/7 — We know that arrests don't happen on a schedule. You can reach a theft crimes attorney any time of day or night — because waiting until Monday morning can cost you critical opportunities.
• Totally Private — You can trust us with everything about your case. We won't judge — we're just here to build the strongest case possible.

Theft Charges We Defend in North Hollywood, CA

Click any charge below to jump directly to a full explanation of the law, penalties, and more.

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 North Hollywood, CA

Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. If you're looking for a theft crimes lawyer in North Hollywood, CA, don't wait: Reach out right away 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 North Hollywood, 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 distinguishing factor is the amount that was supposedly taken: For values $950 and under, the charges will normally be petty theft, while any more will typically be grand theft.

Defending petty theft charges is usually easier because the potential penalties are less severe (it's normally charged as a misdemeanor). However, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. Whichever type of charge you're facing, a skillful theft crimes lawyer can help you minimize penalties.

Below, we've written a table to summarize the differences between petty theft and grand theft:

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, the majority of shoplifting cases are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that repeat offenders, organized retail theft, or amounts over $950 can still result in felony charges. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local North Hollywood, CA theft crimes lawyer can help protect you from the worst consequences.

Organized retail theft (multiple defendants or repeat offenses coordinated to steal from retailers) has been a target of recent California laws, and is prosecuted harshly in North Hollywood, CA.

Shoplifting Possible 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

Potential defenses include: Lack of intent to steal, mistake of fact, entrapment by loss prevention, unlawful search and seizure, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666

Don't underestimate a petty theft charge — it can become a felony under Penal Code § 666 if charged as a petty theft with a prior. North Hollywood, CA prosecutors can use this law against you to turn even a small-time theft allegation into a wobbler — meaning that you could be facing years in prison.

To charge PC § 666, the state must establish: (1) the suspect committed petty theft; and (2) the suspect has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. Defendants with certain prior serious or violent felonies, prior sex offense registration requirements, or prior burglary convictions under PC § 459 remain fully exposed to felony enhancement even for minor shoplifting incidents.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Applicable Priors: Previous theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions

Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in North Hollywood, CA

We will fight against all sorts of vehicle theft crimes in North Hollywood, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a law of its own. Grand theft auto comes from a section of the state's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.

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. If the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're more likely to face charges of joyriding. While either joyriding or grand theft auto can be 'wobbler' offenses, in North Hollywood, CA, grand theft auto is normally charged as a felony, while joyriding is normally a misdemeanor.

If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. In the same vein as receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Simply owning or keeping the car or truck is enough for a conviction.

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has relationships with the local courts and can argue for reduced charges in many cases. Call today to start defending your rights.

Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)

Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. The law doesn't even specify if the vehicle needs to be working — stealing a nearly worthless broken down car would still qualify as grand theft.

The critical element prosecutors must prove is that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. If you intended to return it, the charge is more likely joyriding (see below).

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in North Hollywood, 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 — sometimes called "joyriding" broadly — is often charged alongside or instead of grand theft auto. Unlike grand theft auto, this statute does not require intent to permanently deprive the owner. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.

This charge is popular in North Hollywood, 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. Even though it's not normally as bad as grand theft auto, it can still be charged as a felony. To protect your freedom, you need an experienced North Hollywood, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.

In North Hollywood, CA, joyriding is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor, making it significantly less severe than grand theft auto. However, you can still face felony charges. This mostly applies to individuals with a criminal history, but not always.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

All vehicle theft crime charges are a big deal, but carjacking in particular is a major one. The key element of carjacking is how the vehicle was allegedly stolen — if force or fear was used, the North Hollywood, CA prosecutor is likely going to pick carjacking over another offense. Due to the violent nature of the crime, carjacking is always a felony and is often ineligible for probation.

The impacts of a carjacking conviction are far-reaching, as they include a "strike" on your record. This increases the penalty for future criminal convictions.

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 have or are storing a car that you knew or should have known was stolen, you can be charged under PC § 496d — even if you had no role in the original theft.

We see this charge often in cases where someone borrowed or bought a car without having access to its full history. The state must prove you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can argue that you didn't.

Possible 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 North Hollywood, CA

White collar crimes in North Hollywood, CA, vary widely in context and action, but they all share one thing in common: taking advantage of one's position within an organization to benefit oneself, illegally.

Most white collar crimes center around taking or hiding money in some way. Embezzlement is a good example of this: For this alleged crime, someone would legally be in charge of a person's or organization's money, but would take from it for personal use. 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 not directly). Forgery can be as simple as signing another person's signature without permission, and identity theft is the taking of someone's personal information. In both forgery and identity theft cases, you don't need to have stolen someone else's money to be found guilty.

Embezzlement, Identity Theft, Bribery & More

It's easy to think that white collar accusations aren't taken as seriously as violent crimes in North Hollywood, CA, but you'd be wrong. The punishments can be dire — incarceration, financial penalties, professional license revocation, and permanent stains on your reputation. These cases require attorneys with deep financial and legal sophistication.

White Collar Crimes — Synopsis

The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. What unites these offenses is the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal benefit. It's common for white collar crime cases in North Hollywood, CA, to require specialized experts on both the prosecution and defensive sides.

White collar cases are often investigated for months or even years before charges are filed. If the police have reached out to you for questioning, don't talk to them alone. An attorney is essential as soon as you find out you're under investigation. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement occurs when someone who has been entrusted with property fraudulently converts that property for their own use. The key element is the pre-existing legal access — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

Common contexts: An accountant siphoning company funds; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; a financial advisor moving client funds to personal accounts; 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: Repay alleged victims, professional consequences

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 commonly consists of 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 law aims at transactions over $5,000 conducted with knowledge that the money was obtained through criminal activity. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, carrying sentences up to 20 years.

Possible 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

Bribery involves 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 targets multiple forms of bribery — that of government officials, judges, lawmakers, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what form of bribery you've been accused of, a North Hollywood, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to protect you from the prosecution.

What if they didn't accept the bribe? Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it can be charged in North Hollywood, CA. Even an attempt to bribe can result in criminal charges, regardless of whether the other party accepts.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
• Public Officials: Permanent ineligibility for 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. California's forgery statute is broad and covers bills, money orders, contracts, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, 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. Just the plan to commit fraud, in addition to the act of creating or using the false document, is enough for a conviction.

Possible 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

You can face identity theft allegations in North Hollywood, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

Crucially: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Simply obtaining and using someone else's information without authorization is enough to trigger criminal charges under state law. Because of this, you need to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the details of your situation.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in North Hollywood, CA, and increasingly involve federal charges when conducted online, across state lines, or at scale.

Potential 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 North Hollywood, CA

Fraud is a frequent white collar crime charge in North Hollywood, CA, and can be divided into smaller categories of its own. Generally speaking, a person who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is the most ordinary version of fraud.

Insurance fraud is a popular type of fraud in North Hollywood, CA, wherein someone lies on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, a person who intentionally burns down their house then tells the insurance company that it was an accident is guilty of 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 the card is counterfeit or expired, but you allegedly try to use it anyways, you can face these charges.

Because fraud cases can vary so much from each other, having a theft crimes lawyer with experience in all these areas is essential.

Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

You could face accusations of fraud in North Hollywood, CA, for a wide variety of actions — in most cases, it's a small, individual action, but there have been massive systems of fraud as well. Because the evidence can be very complex and there can be a large amount of it, you need an expert theft crimes lawyer who can effectively navigate all of the intricacies.

Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532

Theft by false pretenses — the foundational fraud offense — occurs when one person intentionally deceives another through false statements or misrepresentations, who then freely gives up something of value based on the false information. As opposed to forceful or unknowing theft, theft by false prestenses involves the alleged victim deliberately parting with their goods because of the deception.

Common examples: Lying about being a contest winner; pretending to be a tech support assistant; pitching investments based on false information; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.

If you're facing theft by false pretenses charges, it could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The level 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

Lying to an insurance company to receive a payout or other benefit is insurance fraud. Insurance fraud charges are always a big deal, and are often felonies in North Hollywood, CA. An expert theft crimes lawyer will defend your freedom and consider multiple defenses to help you find the best outcome possible

Frequent examples include: Staging or exaggerating auto accidents; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; inflating repair cost claims; arson for insurance proceeds; workers' compensation fraud; health insurance billing fraud.

Potential Penalties:

• Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
• Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
• Additional: Career and job restrictions/penalties

Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j

You can face credit card fraud charges in North Hollywood, CA, for a variety of actions done with a credit or debit card. You could be accused of using another individual's card without consent, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or illegally acquiring 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 online. You're more likely to face harsh penalties from the federal charges, increasing the importance of having a leading theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of both state and national law.

Potential 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: Claiming income is less than it actually is; misrepresenting household composition; using another person's EBT card; falsely claiming a dependent child; not reporting new circumstances that would end benefits eligibility.

These crimes often have special investigation teams that target alleged offenders. If convicted, you could be looking at years in prison and serious financial consequences. A local North Hollywood, 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: Lose your right to receive benefits in the future

Hospice Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550

Hospice fraud occurs when a hospice provider bills Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurers for services that were not rendered, were medically unnecessary, or were provided to patients who did not actually qualify for hospice care. To legally receiveMedicare hospice benefits, the person being treated 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.

Common schemes include: enrolling patients who do not meet the terminal illness threshold; billing for higher levels of care than were actually provided; "recycling" patients by discharging and re-enrolling them to reset billing cycles; paying illegal kickbacks to nursing facilities or physicians for patient referrals; and falsifying medical records to manufacture eligibility. North Hollywood, CA, and Southern California have been identified by federal investigators as high-risk regions for hospice fraud, and the Department of Justice and HHS Office of Inspector General have conducted coordinated multi-agency enforcement actions targeting hospice agencies operating in this area.

Critical Note: Even if you have a plan for the criminal charges, don't let your guard down — it's very likely that you'll face a civil lawsuit in conjunction with the criminal charges. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. These investigations can go on for extended periods of time without your knowledge, until the state is ready to file charges.

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 charges vary in scope, but all consist of attempts to defraud the government's Medicare program in one form or another. Because Medicare is a federal program, these charges are almost exclusively prosecuted at the federal level — typically by the U.S. Attorney's Office with support from the FBI, HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains an active presence in North Hollywood, CA.

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. Because Medicare billing data is centrally maintained, federal agents can identify statistical anomalies and billing patterns across thousands of claims — meaning investigations often begin long before a provider is aware they are being scrutinized.

Critical Note: 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. Both the person paying and the person receiving a kickback can face prosecution.

Possible 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: Ineligibility for all federal health care programs

Health Care Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550

Health care fraud, under United States federal law, is when an individual lies to either their insurance agency or the government to receive some kind of benefit related to health care. These allegations apply in broader situations than Medicare, including when a non-governmental insurance agency is involved.

Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California's statute specifically addresses 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. Health care fraud cases in North Hollywood, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Physicians, billing companies, office workers, and clerical staff have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.

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 is a subcategory of Medicare and Medicaid fraud that specifically targets the fraudulent billing for in-home health services — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. In order to be eligible for Medicare benefits, a patient must be homebound and require specialized care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.

Common schemes include: billing for visits to patients who are not homebound and do not qualify; billing for services that were never provided; falsifying physician orders and certifications to manufacture eligibility; paying illegal kickbacks to recruiters, physicians, or patient cappers for referrals; and billing therapy services at inflated frequency levels unsupported by clinical documentation. Home health fraud charges in North Hollywood, 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 — and a Stark Law violation does not require proof of intent.

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 Defend in North Hollywood, CA

Violent crime charges and theft charges often go hand in hand in North Hollywood, CA. One common example is robbery. Robbery occurs when one person threatens or attacks someone in order to take something from them. Versus burglary, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. 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 relies more on threats than actual violence to commit a 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 threatened to attack their manager unless they were given a favorable schedule, that person could be accused of extortion.

Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft

Many theft crimes we outlined above do not involve violence. For charges that do, though, it's common to see much harsher sentencing. Beyond the felony charges themselves, you could also be up against a strike on your record. Your North Hollywood, 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. Robbery is always a felony and always a strike offense.

Your robbery charge in North Hollywood, CA, could either be first-degree or second-degree. These are differentiated based on the location and the alleged victim. First-degree robbery is charged in cases where the alleged robbery occurred in someone's dwelling place, against the passenger or driver of a taxi/rideshare vehicle, or while the supposed victim was at an ATM.

Possible 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

Extortion occurs when someone threatens another person — with violence, property damage, accusation of a crime, or exposure of damaging information — in order to obtain money, property, or an official act. The threat does not have to be of physical violence; threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information is sufficient.

Common examples: Threatening to falsely accuse someone of theft unless the property is given up; threatening to damage someone's storefront unless they pay "protection money;" threatening to deny someone a rightful certification unless special favors are given.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Burglary Charges We Defend in North Hollywood, CA

Burglary charges in North Hollywood, CA, are distinct from theft, but often go hand-in-hand. California defines burglary as entering a location without permission in order to steal something or commit another crime. In most cases, this is a structure, like a retail store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly broke a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would be considered burglary of a vehicle.

Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, these cases can often hinge on if you were allowed to be in the location or not.

Burglary Related Charges

Shoplifting is closely related to commercial burglary. In fact, before 2014, what you think of as shoplifting would be classified as burglary under California law. But as we discussed above a new law Proposition 47 (officially the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act), a ballot initiative passed by California voters on November 4, 2014 that distinguishes shoplifting as specifically attempting to steal merchandise from a business during regular business hours. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in North Hollywood, CA (except in extreme cases).

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 common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in North Hollywood, CA, heightening your need for an experienced theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.

Lastly, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in North Hollywood, CA. How does this happen? 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

California burglary law is broader than most people realize — 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

In California, first-degree burglary, sometimes called residential burglary, involves going to someone's dwelling place while planning to commit a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. The intent at the moment of entry is what matters.

This charge is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and North Hollywood, 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

Possible Penalties:

• Prison Term: 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

Second-degree burglary is someones called "commercial burglary" because it also involves entering a location with the intent to steal or commit a felony, but as opposed to first-degree burglary, the location is non-residential. This charge is considered a wobbler and could be either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Commercial burglary is closely related to shoplifting, and used to be the same offense. However, the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014 distinguished the two, and it's possible your theft crimes lawyer will use this to advantage in your case.

Potential 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

Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. 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.

Key distinction: Stealing from an unlocked vehicle does not qualify for a burglary charge. This is still against the law, but for it to be burglary, the vehicle must have been protected.

Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211

If you're accused of breaking into a home and threatening or hurting the people inside, that would fall under home invasion charges. North Hollywood, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. It's even more important to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer than usual in these cases.

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 defense attorneys that can give you top-quality service, and you need them now.

Potential 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

While not theft charges in and of themselves, vandalism, trespassing, perjury, and receiving stolen property charges are closely associated and often charged together. You need a North Hollywood, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

This charge applies to some people who are indirectly involved in a theft. 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. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items at a great deal, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not make you guilty.

Potential 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 charges are about more than just graffiti; if North Hollywood, CA, you can be accused of vandalism for damaging someone else's property. This relates to theft if you allegedly caused property damage in the process of stealing something (for example, kicking in the door).

Vandalism can either be a misdemeanor or a felony in California: For damage under $400, it's a misdemeanor, while for anything over, it's a felony.

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
• Additional: Graffiti cleanup, community service

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.

On its own, trespassing is usually 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

Perjury is making a false statement under oath, knowing it is false, in a legal proceeding or official document. While not a theft crime per se, perjury frequently arises in theft cases — for example, making false statements to police, lying in a court declaration, or providing false testimony at trial.

Do not make this mistake: Speaking to the police at all is a risk, and it's even worse if you lie to them. By keeping a theft crimes lawyer on hand, you can avoid perjury charges and build a strong defense.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison

Specialized & Enhanced Charges

Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes

Sometimes, two very similar theft offenses can receive very different charges. This can hinge on details such as what was allegedly stolen and/or who the alleged victim was.

Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)

Under California Penal Code § 487(d)(2), theft of a firearm is always grand theft — regardless of the weapon's monetary value. Due to this stealing even a low-value firearm will end up with a felony charge. Grand theft of a firearm is considered a serious felony and can count as a strike under California's Three Strikes law.

To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more important to have an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.

Possible 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

Vulnerable adults, notably people 65 and older, are given extra protection in the California legal system. Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) occurs when someone takes, conceals, appropriates, obtains, or retains money or property from an elder by undue influence, fraud, or other wrongful conduct.

This offense is aggressively prosecuted in North Hollywood, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. In addition to the legal penalties, you could also face a civil suit, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.

Common scenarios: Caregiver overcharging for services; family member doesn't provide an agreed upon level of care; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; fraudulent investment schemes targeting retirees.

Possible 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

During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. While theft and burglary are the root charges behind the action, looting increases the penalties significantly.

In North Hollywood, CA — a city prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and civil unrest events — looting charges have been prosecuted with particular vigor. 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

Under California law, you can be charged with a crime even if the theft, burglary, or robbery was never completed. An attempt requires: (1) the specific intent to commit the crime, and (2) a tangible step is taken towards breaking the law — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.

Most of the time, the punishment for an attempt is half of what it would have been, if it were completed. So while residential burglary carries a prison sentence of 2, 4, or 6 years, attempted residential burglary would only carry a sentence of 1, 2, or 3 years. 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.

For any of the charges above, or more, when you reach out to the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in North Hollywood, CA, who has the training and experience needed to find a path forward. Together, we will fight for the best outcomes possible in your case.

Facing Theft Allegations? These Are Your Next Steps

You need to take these accusations seriously. You're up against the North Hollywood, CA, prosecutor's office, you could be facing major legal consequences, and a conviction could derail your life. Trying to handle it yourself, it can seem impossible.

But you have an ally. When you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you get premier California legal representation on your case. When you work with us, you will get a North Hollywood, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. Here are the steps we recommend taking:

1. Comply With the Police

While it's reasonable to feel angry about being arrested, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Refusing to comply can only get you into more trouble.

2. Stay Calm and Don't Talk

You may be questioned by the police – invoke your right to remain silent. In fact, don't even talk on the ride to the station. Your answers can later be used as evidence in the case, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

3. Reach Out to a North Hollywood, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away

In California, you will be given the opportunity to make three completed phone calls after being arrested. One of these should be to your theft crimes lawyer. 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

Before you can leave the jail, you'll probably have to go through a bail hearing. Our firm's 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. Work With Your Lawyer to Build Your Defense

With the right attorney by your side, it's time to create a strategy to fight the charges. A skilled theft crimes lawyer in North Hollywood, CA, will listen to your story, negotiate with the state, and fight for charges to be dismissed whenever possible.

Theft Lawyer Defensive Strategies

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy must be adapted to the specific details, circumstances, and accusations. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in North Hollywood, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

If you've been accused of stealing, you should discuss intent as a possible defense with your theft lawyer. Your mindset is key to this defense. Unintentionally taking another person's goods does not qualify as theft, generally. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.

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. Similar defenses include: mistake of fact (the accused took the wrong item believing it to be their own); 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 principle: You don't have to prove your intentions, but you may have to defend them against the prosecution. It's on the state to show that you did have the intent to commit theft at the time of the alleged crime. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. May defenses against stealing allegations will incorporate intent to some degree, especially in cases involving family disagreements, where sometimes people can forget about who the formal owner of a piece of property is and unintentionally misuse it.

Defense Application:

• Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
• 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

The state needs to follow rules when building its case. One critically important one is the 4th Amendment, which stops authorities from performing illegal searches and seizures. In theft and burglary cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If the authorities violated constitutional requirements, the evidence can be thrown out and the state may be unable to proceed.

Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; 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 go beyond the limits of a legally obtained warrant. In North Hollywood, 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.

When evidence is suppressed under the exclusionary rule, prosecutors often cannot proceed with charges at all. Even partial suppression — in cases where a subset of the evidence against the defendant is suppressed — can be the difference between a conviction and acquittal. Suppression motions are fully litigated in North Hollywood, CA, courts, and are a standard component of aggressive defense in all property crime cases.

Suppression Scenarios:

• Warrantless Home Entry: Except in special circumstances, if evidence was taken from your home without a warrant, it can be thrown out
• 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 North Hollywood, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can stem from personal disagreements, misidentification by witnesses, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. You can't rely on your innocence to get you out of trouble — you need a North Hollywood, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

False accusations in North Hollywood, CA, often aren't the result of malice, but of a witness making an error. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, the high intensity of the circumstances can lead to witnesses not remembering details clearly — particularly across racial lines, under poor lighting conditions, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. Studies consistently show that witness confidence does not correlate with accuracy. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in North Hollywood, 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; challenging the reliability of the identification procedure used by law enforcement (photo arrays, live lineups, show-ups); exposing bias or motive on the part alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.

If you are falsely accused: Stay away from witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without an 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 — For receiving stolen property and possession of a stolen vehicle, the North Hollywood, CA, prosecutor must prove you knew the property was stolen. If you're facing an applicable charge, we will raise doubt as to your knowledge that the goods were stolen and explain how you could come to possess them without realizing.

Consent / Permission — Theft requires that property be taken without the owner's consent. If you had permission to be in a location or to take an item — even if that permission was informal or later disputed — this is a complete defense to theft and burglary charges.

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.

Diversion Programs — For many first-time offenders, California offers diversion programs that can keep you out of prison by participating. This is often a favorable outcome for our clients that we will fight to secure.

Arguing the Value of Property — If you're up against grand theft charges, but the supposedly stolen property didn't reach the $950 value threshold, we will fight to have the charges reduced. We'll show the true value of the property and argue for lesser charges.

Theft Crime Expungement / Record Clearance — California Penal Code § 1203.4

A theft conviction does not have to define you for life. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, individuals who have successfully completed probation for a misdemeanor or felony theft conviction may petition the court to dismiss the charges and withdraw their guilty or no contest plea — a process commonly called an expungement. Before you can do so, you will likely have to have fit the following critera: successfully completed all terms of probation, including fines and restitution; not currently be charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for any other offense; and — as a more recent restriction — in many cases, must not have spent time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. Arguably, the best cases are those which were dismissed without any form of conviction. In these cases, instead of expunging the conviction, the arrest record can be sealed.

When you work with a theft lawyer to clear your record, you can look forward to the following perks: In particular, an expunged conviction generally does not need to be disclosed on private employment applications under state law. That said, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it does not restore firearm rights, doesn't prevent the conviction from impacting future cases, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) created expanded automatic record relief for many non-violent and non-serious felony convictions in California, allowing eligible individuals to obtain relief without filing a petition after completing their sentence and remaining crime-free for a specified period.

Important: Expungement under § 1203.4 does not seal the record from law enforcement, licensing boards, or subsequent criminal proceedings. If your goal is for the record to be totally inaccessible, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, a more comprehensive post-conviction strategy is required. When you work with an expert theft crimes lawyer, you'll be able to explore other options for protecting yourself.

Relief Options:

• PC § 1203.4: Charges dismissed after successful probation completion
• PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (available 1 year after the conviction)
• PC § 851.91: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
• SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
• Limitations: Still restricted from owning guns, and the police can still review these records

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Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in North Hollywood, CA

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in North Hollywood, California?


The primary distinction is the value of the property allegedly taken. Property valued at $950 or less results in petty theft charges (usually a misdemeanor). 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?


Frequently, yes. For probation sentences, expungement is often offered conditionally upon your completion. This will protect your record, prevent most of the public from being able to access it, and help you get a clean start. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.

What happens if I'm charged with shoplifting for the first time in North Hollywood, 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 make a major difference and help you with avoiding a conviction and protecting your record.

I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?


Receiving stolen property (PC § 496) requires that you knew — or had good reason to know — the property was stolen. If you honestly didn't know and didn't have a reason to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. However, circumstances like an unusually low price or no documentation of ownership can erode your case, which is why an attorney is essential.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in North Hollywood, CA?


Extremely. In North Hollywood, CA, grand theft auto is almost always prosecuted as a felony, which means potential prison time (up to three years), fines up to $10,000, and a felony record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have a criminal record, you could be up against increased sentences. Call one of our attorneys as soon as possible at (800) 755-5174.

What is a "wobbler" offense in California?


A wobbler is an offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor's discretion. Several theft-related offenses — such as grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we take these charges seriously and will argue for misdemeanor options.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


It depends, but it is not always the case. North Hollywood, 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. Call our firm to review what options are available to you.

Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?


Unfortunately, yes. In California, the actions you take after unlawfully entering a location don't determine a burglary charge. Instead, the state defines burglary as going into a building in order to steal something or break a felony law. Whether you stole something or not is irrelevant — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. Because of this, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is central to burglary defense.

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Need a Theft Defense Attorney in North Hollywood, CA? Contact Our Team Now.

Without a theft crimes lawyer, it's easy to make mistakes that put you at a disadvantage. Our attorneys are ready to defend you — whenver you need help. Contact us now for a free, confidential case review.

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