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Theft Lawyer Pico Rivera, CA. When you are charged with a crime in Pico Rivera, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Theft charges in particular can be complex because of the wide variety of them. It might look like all hope is lost.

Even when it feels like there is no hope, there is an option who will fight for you: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our lawyers have extensive experience defending clients against all manner of theft crime charges. With a Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team on your side, you're going to get honest advice on how to get the best outcome possible.

Discuss your case with a theft crimes attorney right away at (800) 755-5174 or connect with us online for a private review of your case at no cost. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.

How a Pico Rivera, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

You should never take theft allegations lightly, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to navigate a complex legal code and increase your risk of the following penalties:

1. Prison Sentence: Most theft charges in Pico Rivera, CA, carry a potential jail sentence of six months or more.
2. Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
3. Career Setbacks: Having a criminal record can negatively affect your future career goals.
4. Reputational Damage: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
5. And more.

A Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley . Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:

Top Qualities of Our Pico Rivera, CA Theft Defense Attorneys

Working with our expert Pico Rivera, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what set us apart — and why it matters for your theft case:

• A Team Of Former Prosecutors & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We know what weaknesses to exploit.
• Longstanding Court Relationships — With over 50 years of combined courtroom experience, we have built up relationships with the Pico Rivera, 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 — Even after the fact, we're still here to help. We offer record clearing and expungement services to help you move on and protect your future career and opportunities.
• Stellar Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
• Always Availalbe — Arrests happen at all hours. So do we. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
• Totally 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 Pico Rivera, CA

Use the links below to navigate directly to a full breakdown of the law, penalties, and how we defend it.

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 Cases We Fight in Pico Rivera, CA

Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. Should you need a theft crimes lawyer in Pico Rivera, CA, act fast: contact us now for a free consult to go over your charges.

Our lawyers can help you fight all of the following allegations:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

While there are many different theft case types in Pico Rivera, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. You can face these charges for taking someone's possessions without permission. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: For anything $950 or less, the classification will generally be petty theft, while higher values will generally be grand theft.

Defending petty theft charges often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. However, defending grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. In either case, the right theft crimes lawyer will improve your chances of reaching a positive outcome.

Here's a breakdown of what distinguishes petty 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. Shoplifting is defined as entering a business during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

Before Prop 47, what we now call "shoplifting" was prosecuted as burglary — a felony. Today, 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. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Pico Rivera, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and avoid making mistakes that could have major consequences.

Organized retail theft (either a crime ring or repeated instances of shoplifting) is an elevated form of shoplifting that has been a recent focus in California, and is often charged as a felony.

Shoplifting Possible Penalties:

• Jail Time: Up to 6 months
• Fines: Up to $1,000
• Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
• Other: Probation, banned from store

Potential defenses consist of: Theft was unintentional, mistake of fact, 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

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. Not every prior offense in Pico Rivera, CA, qualifies for these enhancement, but if you have any prior convictions on your record, it's critical to work with an expert theft lawyer to defend you.

If you're facing petty theft with a prior allegations, the state must establish: (1) the suspect performed petty theft; and (2) the accused has previously been found guilty for certain crimes, mostly theft related — especially if the sentence included incarceration. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. While most of the applicable prior convictions are theft related, they also include some sexual and violent crimes.

Possible Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in Pico Rivera, CA

There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Pico Rivera, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's actually not its own charge. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection 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. If the defendant did intend to return it, they're more likely to be charged with joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in Pico Rivera, 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. In the same vein as receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Even just owning or keeping the car or truck can get you arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle.

When you work with us, 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. Reach out today to start defending your rights.

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

Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — all automobile thefts fall under the umbrella of "grand theft" in the state. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.

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).

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Pico Rivera, CA)
• Felony Prison Sentence: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail Sentence: 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. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.

This is one of the most broadly written vehicle theft statutes in California, and prosecutors use it frequently because it's easier to prove than grand theft auto.

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding charges focus on intent. If you allegedly drove a car without permission, but brought it back afterwards, that would be joyriding. But if you did the same thing and planned to keep the vehicle, that would be grand theft. 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 Pico Rivera, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.

In Pico Rivera, CA, joyriding is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor, making it significantly less severe than grand theft auto. That said, 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. It is defined as taking a motor vehicle from another person through force or fear — essentially a robbery of a car. Because this action involves violence, 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.

Possible 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

In Pico Rivera, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you have a automobile when you knew or should have know it was stolen, you can be charged under PC § 496d — even if you had no role in the original theft.

This charge frequently catches people who buy vehicles through informal channels, accept a vehicle as a gift, or borrow a car without fully investigating its ownership history. The state must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can argue that you didn't.

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 Defend in Pico Rivera, CA

White collar crimes in Pico Rivera, CA, can look very different from each other, but they all have one thing in common: misusing professional power for financial gain.

Many white collar crimes center around taking or hiding money in some way. Embezzlement is when one person steals money that they were in charge of, but was not their own. 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 occurs when someone gives another person a gift in order to receive a favor, in a way that violates laws or regulations.

Not all white-collar crimes are centered around the exchange of money, though (at least at face value). Forgery can be as simple as signing another person's signature without permission, and identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.

Embezzlement, Identity Theft, Bribery & More

Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — incarceration, massive fines, professional license revocation, and permanent stains on your reputation. These cases require attorneys with deep financial and legal sophistication.

White Collar Crimes — Overview

The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. These charges will include the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal benefit. Pico Rivera, 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. If you believe you are under investigation — or have received a subpoena, a target letter, or a visit from federal agents — call us immediately. In some cases, we can intervene early and prevent charges from even being filed.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement is different from other forms of theft. For an embezzlement charge, the alleged offender would have lawful access to the property, just not for personal use. The main feature is the pre-existing legal access — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

Hypothetical examples: An accountant siphoning company funds; a bookkeeper writing unauthorized checks to themselves; 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: Financial recompensation, employment restrictions

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 is made up of three stages: placement (bringing the illegally-obtained money into the economy), layering (the dirty money is moved multiple times within the financial system to make it hard to follow), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).

California's money laundering law specifically targets transactions over $5,000 that involved illegally obtained funds, so long as the person involved knew they were illegal. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, which tends to have much harsher penalties.

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 order to affect the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — elected officials, judges, legislators, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what position you're in, a Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer is critical to protect you from the prosecution.

Important: Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it can be charged in Pico Rivera, 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 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. California's forgery statute is broad and covers bills, receipts, stock certificates, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, warrants, notary public symbols, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.

Critical point: The forgery charges are independent of any related fraud charges, so anyone can be charged even if they didn't use the forged item. The intent to defraud, in addition to the creation or use of the forged item, is sufficient 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

In Pico Rivera, 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 — to perform a restricted activity, such as obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.

Crucially: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply obtaining and using another individual's information without authorization is enough to violate California statute § 530.5. Because of this, you need to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the particular of your situation.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Pico Rivera, CA, and increasingly result in 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 Defend in Pico Rivera, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in Pico Rivera, CA. Generally speaking, someone who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation 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 a specific variation where a person allegedly lies to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. For example, if someone were to hide their valuable property and claim it was stollen, that person commits insurance fraud.

This is not unlike 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 common form 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.

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

Types of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

You could face accusations of fraud in Pico Rivera, 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. These cases are often document-heavy and require a theft crimes lawyer who understands both the law and financial evidence.

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

Many "fraud" charges in Pico Rivera fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when a person intentionally deceives another through false statements or misrepresentations, who then freely gives up something of value based on the false information. 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: 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.

The charge level (misdemeanor vs. felony) depends on the value of the property obtained through fraud, using the same $950 threshold as petty/grand theft.

Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550

You can face insurance fraud charges for making untruthful statements in reports to your insurance agency, so that they will provide you with a benefit you are not supposed to receive. If you're facing insurance fraud charges in Pico Rivera, CA, it's possible that you'll go to prison for several years if convicted. A leading theft crimes lawyer will defend your freedom and negotiation with the prosecutor to help you find the best outcome possible

Frequent examples include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; inflating repair cost claims; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; fabricating injuries; double billing for a health service.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

Credit card fraud charges in Pico Rivera, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. Charges can occur if someone is caught using someone else's card without consent, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or fraudulently acquiring or selling card account information.

Note on federal charges: You are likely to face both federal and state charges, particularly when accounts are used across state lines or the internet is involved. 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.

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: Claiming income is less than it actually is; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; Trading or selling food stamps; 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. Your leading Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and boost your chances of a positive outcome.

Potential Penalties:

• Under $950 (usually): 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 accusations in Pico Rivera, 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 terminal prognosis of six months or less to live if nothing drastic changes in their health condition — a threshold that fraudulent providers routinely falsify.

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. These accusations are particularly dangerous because they are often charged in federal court in Pico Rivera, CA, meaning you're up against very difficult odds.

Warning: If you've been accused of hospice fraud in criminal court, you can expect a civil suit to follow. 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)
• Extra: 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. 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 Pico Rivera, 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. Medicare fraud investigations are especially tricky to detect, because they often involve datasets rather than on-the-ground investigators. This means that the first warning sign that you're being investigated can come too late to clear things up.

Critical Note: The United States also has a law (the Anti-Kickback Statute – 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) which makes it a form of Medicare fraud to offer payment for Medicare-related referrals. 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: Loss of eligibility for 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.

Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California's statute specifically addresses situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. Without an expert Pico Rivera, 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 companies, office managers, and clerks have all faced prosecution depending on their level of involvement.

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, at a fundamental level, it involves the same alleged act (lying in order to receive health care benefits). This one in particular is related to in-home health services — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. To qualify for Medicare benefits, the care recipient must be homebound and require specialized care. Home health fraud exploits this framework in a variety of ways.

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. Southern California has historically been one of the country's highest-risk regions for home health fraud, and federal task forces have conducted simultaneous multi-agency takedowns targeting dozens of home health agencies in Pico Rivera, CA. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Warning: There are special restrictions placed on doctors to prevent home health fraud. For example, the United States' Stark Law makes it illegal for a doctor to send a patient to a home health services provider that the physician financially benefits from. Outside of the criminal case, you can face fines, need to pay restitution, and be excluded from Medicare — even if you broke the law accidentally.

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 Pico Rivera, CA

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be facing both theft charges and violent crime charges in Pico Rivera, CA. This can occur if you're charged with 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.

However, some thefts which did not start out violent can end up involving violence. Home invasion charges can take place when a person allegedly breaks into a location to commit a burglary, but finds people inside and threatens them with violence.

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 the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. As an 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. You're almost guaranteed to be facing felony charges. It's essential to get a theft crimes lawyer in Pico Rivera, CA to protect your freedom.

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. Being convicted of robbery will likely result in a prison sentence as well as a strike.

Your robbery charge in Pico Rivera, 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

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. While extortion does always involve a threat of some kind, it doesn't need to be personal violence, like with robbery. In many cases, it is instead property damage, or to publicly humiliate someone.

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.

Potential Penalties:

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

Burglary Charges We Fight in Pico Rivera, CA

Burglary is often charged along with theft in Pico Rivera, CA. California defines burglary as entering a location without permission in order to steal something or break a different law. In most cases, this is a structure, like a retail store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you supposedly broke a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.

No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Due to this, these cases can often hinge on if you were allowed to be in the location or not.

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. However, 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. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in Pico Rivera, 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 Pico Rivera, CA, heightening your need for an expert theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.

Finally, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in Pico Rivera, CA. What can lead to this? 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

People commonly think of burglary as entering someone's house to commit theft, but that's not how Pico Rivera, CA law works — these charges apply when someone tresspasses on a property while planning to break the law, though it doesn't have to be a theft law specifically.

Residential Burglary (First Degree) — California Penal Code § 459

In California, first-degree burglary, sometimes called residential burglary, involves going to someone's dwelling place with the intent 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 the key to burglary charges.

Residential burglary is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and Pico Rivera, 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: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony strike
• Probation: Generally not available for first-degree
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Commercial Burglary (Second Degree) — California Penal Code § 459

Second-degree burglary covers entering any non-residential structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony — stores, offices, warehouses, garages, and other commercial buildings. This charge is considered a wobbler and could be either a misdemeanor or a felony.

Your theft crimes lawyer in Pico Rivera, 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.

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. This could be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on how the Pico Rivera, CA prosecutor interprets the circumstances.

Important note: Stealing from an unlocked vehicle does 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

If you're accused of breaking into a home and threatening or hurting the people inside, that would fall under home invasion charges. Pico Rivera, 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.

As with other burglary charges, home invasion burglary charges don't tend to exist in a vacuum — you're likely also facing other theft or violent crimes charges. If you are facing home invasion charges, you need a law firm with a track record of success, and you need them right away.

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

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 Pico Rivera, 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

You don't have to steal something to face theft-related criminal charges. California law makes it illegal to hide, purchase, sell, or otherwise possess stolen property, regardless of whether or not you're the one who stole it.

These cases often hinge on your mental state — namely, whether or not you were (or should have been) 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 knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not prove that you were aware the items were stolen.

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 charges are about more than just graffiti; if Pico Rivera, 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).

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.

Possible 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

You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. In the context of theft crimes, trespassing charges frequently accompany burglary or other property offense charges — because burglary inherently involves unauthorized entry.

On its own, trespassing is most often charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, Pico Rivera, CA, prosecutors can also use it as a part of a case for more serious charges. 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.

Possible 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. This means 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.

As if fighting the charges in your local Pico Rivera, CA court weren't bad enough, you could also find yourself up against federal charges. When you're fighting in two courts, it becomes substantially more complicated to avoid a guilty plea. And it's even more essential to find an attorney who is able to protect you from even the toughest opponents.

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 Pico Rivera, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. 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 taking money from a client's account; family member exerting undue influence over an elder's finances; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.

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

Disasters can be a time of panic. If, during the confusion, someone attempts to get away with theft, they may face looting charges. While theft and burglary are the root charges behind the action, looting increases the penalties significantly.

In Pico Rivera, CA — a city prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and civil unrest events — looting charges have been prosecuted with particular vigor. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Pico Rivera while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. An example might be breaking into someone's home during a riot and grabbing valuables to run away with.

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) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) a direct, unequivocal act toward committing it — whatever the outcome was.

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.

California's Three Strikes law doesn't provide any leeway if someone attempted to commit a crime unsuccessfully — robbery attempts and burglary attempts are still strikes, whether or not they were successful. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.

For any of the charges above, or more, when you contact our firm, you can talk to an expert theft crimes lawyer in Pico Rivera, CA, who will listen to your side of the story and build a defense around that. As a team, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.

What to Do if You're Accused of Theft

You need to take these accusations seriously. You're up against the Pico Rivera, CA, prosecutor's office, you could be facing major legal consequences, and the collateral consequences could be devastating. Without help, it can seem impossible.

But you're not alone. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help. A Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team will guide you on how to navigate your case. If you're up against theft crime accusations, here are our recommendations:

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. Fighting back can only lead to additional charges.

2. Keep Calm and Stay Silent

There's a chance you'll be interviewed or interrogated – invoke your right to remain silent. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." 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 Pico Rivera, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP

In California, you will be given the opportunity to make three completed phone calls after being arrested. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. The sooner you hire an expert to help with your case, the better your chances are for a positive outcome. You can reach us at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Secure Bail for Release

In most cases, you'll need to go through a bail hearing. Our firm's theft crimes defense attorneys will argue against the prosecution for your release. You are innocent until proven guilty, and should enjoy your freedom while your case proceeds.

5. Work With Your Lawyer to Build Your Defense

This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. An expert theft crimes lawyer in Pico Rivera, CA, will listen to your story, negotiate for deals with the state, and argue for a dismissal wherever possible.

How Our Theft Lawyers Fight Against These Charges

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy must be adapted to the specific facts, proof, and accusations. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Pico Rivera, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

Lack of intent is a common criminal defense strategy, and is particularly applicable in theft cases. All theft offenses under California law require that the defendant acted with specific intent to steal — that is, to permanently deprive another person of their property. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.

The claim of right defense applies when a defendant genuinely believed — even mistakenly — that they had a legal right to the property they took. If you genuinely believed you had the right to take the property — even if that belief was mistaken — it negates the criminal intent required for a theft conviction. 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 (the defendant intended to return the property, which may reduce or eliminate a grand theft charge even if another theft offense still applies).

Key point: The prosecution bears the burden of proving criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt — the defendant does not have to prove innocence. This isn't merely a backup plan. It is often the strongest available defense, particularly in cases involving disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.

Using This Defense:

• 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 Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the California Constitution protect individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures. In many criminal cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If the investigators broke the law, the evidence can be thrown out and the prosecution 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 resulting from a warrant that was based on false information; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without appropriate legal authority; and searches that exceeded the limits of a legally obtained warrant. In Pico Rivera, CA, your defense attorney can file a motion to throw out any evidence the prosecution acquired through improper means — suppression of unlawfully abstained evidence motions can destroy the prosecution's argument, leading to dropped or dismissed charges.

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 make a big difference. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Pico Rivera, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft 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: If illegally obtained evidence leads to future evidence that was legally obtained, it's possible that all of it can be thrown out

False Accusation / Misidentification

Whether because of malice or a simple mistake, sometimes innocent people get accused of theft in Pico Rivera, CA. False accusations can stem from personal disagreements, misidentification by witnesses, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. Even if you're innocent, you're still at risk of going to prison for something you didn't do — you need a Pico Rivera, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

Eyewitness misidentification is one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions nationally. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — particularly across racial lines, if they didn't have a clear sightline, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. Even if the witness is sure, they could be mistaken. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Pico Rivera, CA, court.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: showing that the defendant was elsewhere at the time of the crime; challenging the reliability of the identification procedure used by law enforcement (photo arrays, live lineups, show-ups); attacking the character of alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and challenging inconsistencies between different statements and testimony between witnesses.

If you are innocent: Do not confront witnesses, do not try to build your defense on your own, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without your theft defense lawyer present. It's easy to say something that seems innocuous but accidentally makes yourself look guilty. 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 Pico Rivera, CA, prosecutor must prove you knew the property was stolen. We challenge this element aggressively — many people unknowingly purchase stolen goods with no way to verify their origin.

Consent / Permission — Consent is the defining feature behind many theft charges; if you didn't have permission to use take an item, you could be found guilty. 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.

Rights 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 — In many cases with offenders with no prior offenses, California offers diversion programs that can result in charges being dismissed after completing community service, restitution, or counseling. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.

Contesting 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. We'll show the true value of the property and argue for lesser charges.

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. Before you can do so, you will likely have to have fit the following critera: successfully done all that was asked of you as a part 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 spent time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

In cases where probation was not granted, a petition under Penal Code § 1203.4a may provide relief after one year has elapsed since conviction. 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: Of note, job applications become a lot easier, as you won't have to mention your conviction. That said, the criminal record isn't entirely thrown away by expungement — it doesn't allow gun ownership, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) even automates part of the expungement process in some cases, if there haven't been any subsequent criminal cases.

Critical Note: While expungement under § 1203.4 offers many benefits, it doesn't make the record go away entirely; it can still be viewed by the police, licensing boards, and be used in future criminal cases. 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: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
• SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
• Limitations: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases

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Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Pico Rivera, CA

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Pico Rivera, California?


How much was allegedly stolen determines the specific theft charge. Anything $950 and under should be a petty theft charge, which is often a misdemeanor. Anything over $950, guns, or vehicles all result in grand theft charges, which can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Both require an attorney, but grand theft charges demand urgent and aggressive representation.

Does California allow me to expunge my record from a theft crime?


Often, yes. California law lets you expunge several types of theft convictions (including felonies) from your record after completing probation. Expungement removes the conviction from your public record and allows you to truthfully say you have not been convicted of that crime in most circumstances. Our firm offers full expungement services.

What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Pico Rivera, CA?


While this is still serious, you don't need to panic just yet — you will probably only face misdemeanor charges. Additionally, we can often secure alternative sentencing options which will keep you out of jail. An attorney 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?


In many cases, being unaware of stolen property's origins can make for a strong defense. If you honestly didn't know and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. That said, circumstances like an unusually low price or no documentation of ownership can lessen the strength of your defense, which is why an attorney is essential.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Pico Rivera, CA?


Very serious. In Pico Rivera, 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 any prior convictions, you are at risk of harsher penalties. Call us 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. Many theft-related offenses — such as 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?


Not necessarily. Pico Rivera, 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. The answer depends heavily on your specific charge, criminal history, and the quality of your legal representation. Contact our firm to understand what options exist in your case.

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


Unfortunately, yes. In California, you can be convicted of burglary for trespassing for the purposes of committing theft or a felony. Whether you actually took anything doesn't matter — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. Because of this, intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is central to burglary defense.

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Facing a Theft Charge in Pico Rivera, CA? Call Right Away.

There is no such thing as a minor theft accusation. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to defend you — whenver you need help. You can call our attorneys today to start building your defense.

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