Theft Lawyer Santa Fe Springs, CA. Accusations. Arrests. Criminal charges. Theft accusations in particular can be scary, because they are often layered with multiple charges. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.
Even when you're up against the toughest battle of your life, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our team of legal experts has what it takes to guard your freedom against the prosecution. With a Santa Fe Springs, 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.
Connect with an attorney now at (800) 755-5174 or connect with us online for a private review of your case at no cost. It's easy to get started, and acting fast can mean everything.
How a Santa Fe Springs, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You
Theft crime accusations are always a big deal, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to navigate a complex legal code and make it more likely that you'll face the following:
- Prison Sentence: Santa Fe Springs, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
- Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
- Loss of Employmnet: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
- Reputational Damage: Even if you make it past everything else, the reputation as a "criminal" can stick with you.
- And more.
A Santa Fe Springs, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. You need the Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
What Sets the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Apart
Working with our expert Santa Fe Springs, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what you get when you call us — and how it will impact your case:
- A Team Of Former Prosecutors & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We use that inside knowledge to dismantle the prosecution's strategy.
- Extensive Court Relationships — Decades of practice in Santa Fe Springs, CA, courts means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures — and we leverage that for better outcomes for every client.
- Defenses Built for Trial — Misdemeanor or felony, we build your defense to be trial-ready. This posture often produces better plea negotiations and dismissals — because the prosecution knows we're not bluffing.
- 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.
- Terrific Reputation – well-respected amongst both clients and peers.
- 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 — Attorney-client privilege protects you, whatever you tell us about your case. You can tell us everything, and we will respect your story while crafting your defense.
Theft Charges We Will Fight in Santa Fe Springs, CA
Use the links below to jump directly to a full breakdown of the law, consequences, 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
Major Santa Fe Springs, CA, Theft Crimes We Defend Against
With over 50 years of combined legal experience, we have what it takes to protect your rights. If you're looking for a theft crimes lawyer in Santa Fe Springs, CA, don't wait: Reach out now for a free, confidential consultation.
Below are some of the main theft crime accusations we fight against in Santa Fe Springs, CA:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
California breaks down most theft crimes into two categories: Petty theft and grand theft. At a basic level, these are almost the same act: taking someone else's money or items without permission. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: If it was $950 or less, the classification will ordinarily be petty theft, while higher values will typically be grand theft.
Fighting petty theft allegations often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. On the other hand, defending grand theft charges normally is a greater challenge, because it is more likely to be 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:
| Criminal Charge | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Value Taken | $950 or Less | More than $950 |
| Charge Type? | Often Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor or Felony |
| Misdemeanor Penalties | Up to six months in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines | Up to one year in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines |
| Felony Penalties | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines |
Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5
Shoplifting used to be a type of commercial burglary, rather than its own offense. This changed after California passed Proposition 47 in 2014. A person commits shoplifting when they go into an open store in order to steal $950 or less worth of goods.
While it's still technically possible for shoplifting charges to be felonies, this is not as common as when it was considered a form of burglary. Since Proposition 47, the majority of shoplifting cases are misdemeanors. That said, felony charges can still be applied in certain situations, like an organized shoplifting ring. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Santa Fe Springs, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
Organized retail theft (multiple defendants or repeat offenses coordinated to steal from retailers) is increasingly prosecuted aggressively by Santa Fe Springs, CA, prosecutors following recent state legislation.
Shoplifting Possible Penalties:
- Jail Sentence: Up to 6 months
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
- Other: Probation, banned from store
Defense options include: Theft was unintentional, innocence, 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. This is one of the most common mechanisms used in Santa Fe Springs, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.
To charge PC § 666, the prosecution must establish: (1) the accused is guilty of petty theft; and (2) the accused has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — especially if the sentence included incarceration. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Applicable Priors: Previous theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions
Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Santa Fe Springs, CA
There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Santa Fe Springs, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not its own charge. Grand theft auto is a smaller part 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.
Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're probably going to face charges of joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in Santa Fe Springs, CA, because they're likely to be charged as misdemeanors, versus grand theft auto felonies.
If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. Similar to receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Simply owning or having the car or truck can result in these charges.
When you work with us, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of each offense type, how to fight against them, and what deals are realistic. Reach out today to start making your case.
Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)
Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — 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 Santa Fe Springs, 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. This law is relevant any time someone allegedly drives a vehicle without permission.
Grand theft auto is a more serious offense, but is also harder for prosecutors to secure convictions for. Because of this, they often use § 10851 instead.
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. It may not sound like a big deal to borrow a car without permission and bring it back, but a joyriding conviction can be a felony in Santa Fe Springs, CA, making it critical to get an expert vehicle theft crimes lawyer to defend you.
In most circumstances, Santa Fe Springs, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. That said, you could face felony charges if you have a criminal record, or the prosecutor thought the action was particularly bad.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Key Distinction | Intent to return | Intent to keep permanently |
| Typical Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215
All vehicle theft crime charges are a big deal, but carjacking in particular is a major one. If you allegedly used force or threats to take someone's car directly from them, you can be charged with carjacking. 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.
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
It may be hard to believe, but you can face vehicle theft related charges without committing theft. If you are in possession of a automobile when you knew or should have know it was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.
This charge can sneak up on you, especially if you ever have purchased a vehicle outside of formal sales channels. The prosecution must prove you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — a skillful vehicle theft crimes lawyer may use a strategy that raises doubts as to your knowledge.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in Santa Fe Springs, CA
White collar crimes in Santa Fe Springs, CA, vary widely in context and action, but all of them have one thing in common: abuse of an organization for personal gain.
Most white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is the theft of money someone was supposed to manage for others, like an investment banker taking from a client's account. Money laundering is taking money that was otherwise gotten illegally and trying to disguise it as something that was earned legally. Meanwhile, bribery doesn't just involve taking money, but instead consists of one person giving another money in exchange for some sort of benefit.
Not all white-collar crimes are centered around the exchange of money, though (at least at first glance). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.
Forgery, Money Laundering, Bribery & More
Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — incarceration, financial penalties, professional license revocation, and long-lasting stains on your reputation. To protect yourself against these consequences, it's critical to have a theft crimes lawyer with local experience and expertise in your corner.
White Collar Crimes — Overview
There isn't a set list of "white collar crimes," but they do tend to have some qualities in common, particularly that they are non-violent and are related to one's workplace. What unites these offenses is the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal benefit. It's common for white collar crime cases in Santa Fe Springs, CA, to require specialized experts on both the prosecution and defensive sides.
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. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.
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 — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.
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; A cashier voiding out a transaction but keeping the money; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.
Potential 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, loss of professional licenses
Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10
Money laundering is the process of making illegally obtained money appear to have come from a legitimate source. It usually involves three steps: placement (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).
California's money laundering statute is set to combat financial actions over $5,000 conducted with knowledge that the money was obtained through criminal activity. Federal money laundering charges (18 U.S.C. § 1956) can also apply, which tends to have much harsher penalties.
Potential Penalties (State):
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Fines: Up to $250,000 or double the laundered amount
- Federal Add-On: Up to 20 years federal prison
Bribery — California Penal Code § 67–68 / § 92
You can face bribery charges for offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in order to affect the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — elected officials, judges, lawmakers, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever form of bribery you've been accused of, a Santa Fe Springs, CA, theft crimes lawyer is critical to advise you on how to address these charges.
What if they didn't accept the bribe? Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it can be charged in Santa Fe Springs, 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
You can be charged with forgery in Santa Fe Springs, CA, if you allegedly changed or made a fake document to trick someone into giving you money or other valuables. State law is broad and covers checks, receipts, contracts, deeds, power of attorney documents, court orders, notary public symbols, lottery tickets, 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. Just the plan to commit fraud, in addition to the act of creating or using the forged item, is sufficient to be convicted.
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 Santa Fe Springs, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, including obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.
Crucially: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Simply taking and using someone's information without a legal reason is enough to warrant a crime under state law. This makes it critical to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the specifics of your situation.
Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Santa Fe Springs, CA, and increasingly result in federal charges for more serious, widespread, or online cases.
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 Santa Fe Springs, CA
Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Santa Fe Springs, CA, and it has several subcategories. Generally speaking, someone who commits theft by lying about something in order to get another person to give away 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 Santa Fe Springs, CA, wherein someone 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.
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 form is credit card fraud. This type of fraud involves dishonesty about the credit card and/or how it was acquired. Maybe it's stolen, expired, or fake, but the bottom line is that the card was not supposed to be used in this way.
An expert theft crimes lawyer in Santa Fe Springs, CA, can help you navigate the differences between all of these fraud charges, and try to find a deal that gives you the best outcome possible.
Types of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception
There are many types of fraud allegations in Santa Fe Springs, CA — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. 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
Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in Santa Fe Springs. These allegations are used when one person lies to someone else, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. The key element is that the victim willingly hands over the property as a result of being deceived.
Common examples: Lying about being a contest winner; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; creating fake invoices; 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. The Santa Fe Springs, CA, prosecution takes insurance fraud extremely seriously, and the state has a dedicated Insurance Fraud Division that actively investigates these cases. A leading theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and consider multiple defenses to help you find the best outcome possible
Typical examples include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing false theft reports; exaggerating property damage; arson for insurance proceeds; workers' compensation fraud; double billing for a health service.
Potential Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
- Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
- Additional: Loss of professional licenses
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
In Santa Fe Springs, CA, credit card fraud covers a wide range of conduct involving fraudulent use of credit or debit cards. You could be accused of using another individual's card without authorization, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or fraudulently taking or selling card account information.
What to know about federal charges: It's common in California credit card fraud cases for there to also be federal charges, particularly when cards are used across state lines or online. Your theft crimes lawyer needs to have experience fighting fraud charges in both state and federal court.
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: Failing to report income; misrepresenting household composition; 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. A local Santa Fe Springs, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and greatly improve your case's outlook.
Possible 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: Loss of future benefit eligibility
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 recipient must have a projected lifespan of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course — it's common for the prosecution to allege that the patient's condition did not meet this criteria in these cases.
This type of fraud is more often alleged towards providers over patients. Because healthcare professionals have more access to control billing and provide diagnoses, they are at higher risk of being accused of hospice fraud. Santa Fe Springs, 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.
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)
- 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 have particularly far-reaching consequences. 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 Santa Fe Springs, CA.
Medicare fraud convictions are particularly bad because they can prevent you from ever receiving Medicare or Medi-Cal benefits in the future. This is on top of other consequences, like the loss of professional licensing. The federal prosecutor is supported by an equally strong federal team of investigators, who can conduct their job very quietly. If you find out that you're under investigation for Medicare fraud, it's urgent that you contact your Santa Fe Springs, CA theft lawyer immediately.
Warning: It's possible to be accused of Medicare fraud even when all forms of medical care were honest and legitimate. This can occur if a provider offers money to someone in exchange for accessing Medicare-sponsored services through that provider. You can be accused of breaking this law whether you gave or received the money.
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: Mandatory exclusion from 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. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.
You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California law specifically targets situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. These are some of the most complicated cases to defend in Santa Fe Springs, CA, as they often involve extensive medical records and expert testimony/analysis. Healthcare providers, billing companies, office workers, and clerks have all found themselves accused of health care fraud in the past.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
- State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
- Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
- Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences
Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Home health fraud, like other health care fraud types, also consists of making false statements to an insurance or government health care entity. The difference is that it describes specific types of healthcare services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. In order to be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, a patient must be homebound and require skilled 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. Home health fraud charges in Santa Fe Springs, 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.
Important: 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. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — to make matters worse, you can be convicted of violating this law even if you unintentionally broke it.
Possible 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 Santa Fe Springs, CA
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be facing both theft charges and violent crime charges in Santa Fe Springs, 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. Versus burglary, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. Carjacking is to grand theft auto what robbery is to burglary.
However, some thefts which did not start out violent can end up involving violence. 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. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. This doesn't always need to include physical violence, but the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. For example, if one person had a compromising photo of another and threatened to release it if not given money, that would be extortion.
Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft
If you allegedly threatened or attacked someone in the course of committing theft, your case is even more serious. Beyond the felony charges themselves, you could also be up against a strike on your record. It's essential to get a theft crimes lawyer in Santa Fe Springs, CA to protect your freedom.
Robbery — California Penal Code § 211
Robbery is taking property from another person directly, using force or fear. This is the key distinction from burglary — the victim must be present. Robbery is always a felony and always a strike offense.
Your robbery charge in Santa Fe Springs, 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.
Potential Penalties:
- 1st Degree Prison: 3, 4, or 6 years
- 2nd Degree Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Weapon Use: +3 to 10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony
Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518
A person can be convicted of extortion if they coerce someone using threats, rather than force. The goal of extortion is normally to acquire some sort of benefit, either financial or through an action of the victim. The threat does not have to be of physical violence; threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information is sufficient.
Common examples: Threatening to report someone for a crime unless paid; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Burglary Charges We Defend in Santa Fe Springs, CA
Burglary is often charged along with theft in Santa Fe Springs, CA. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft or commit another crime. In most cases, this is a building, like a retail store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly broke a car window to steal a wallet sitting on the seat, that would be considered burglary of a vehicle.
No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, what you were allegedly planning to do in a location can be just as important as how you got access to it.
Burglary Related Charges
Shoplifting is closely related to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. However, that all changed with the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, which made shoplifting a separate crime, applicable when the alleged offender was attempting theft from a store while it is open for operations. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. Today, shoplifting is no longer a subset of burglary offenses in Santa Fe Springs, CA, and faces more lenient penalties if convicted.
Another related charge is vandalism. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by breaking a window to in the process of a theft. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Santa Fe Springs, CA, making it all the more important to get a top quality theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.
Lastly, there is a theft charge you can be accused of in Santa Fe Springs, CA, even if you didn't steal something. How can this be? Receiving stolen property charges. If you allegedly buy or take something that you know is stolen, or help the person who stole it hide the property, you can face these charges.
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
First-degree burglary involves entering an inhabited dwelling — someone's home, apartment, or any place where people live — for the purpose of committing a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. The reason that you went there is the key to burglary charges.
Residential burglary is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and Santa Fe Springs, 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 available 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. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Since Proposition 47, entering a store during business hours to steal $950 or less is shoplifting (PC 459.5), not commercial burglary. But entering after hours, or with intent to steal more than $950, is still prosecuted as commercial burglary.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Charge Type: Wobbler
Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459
Vehicle burglary is similar to residential or commercial burglary — it also involves unlawfully entering a location, but in this case, that location is a vehicle. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.
Common misconception: The vehicle must be locked for a burglary charge to apply. This would still likely be prosecuted as theft, but for it to be burglary, the vehicle must have been protected.
Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211
A home invasion occurs when someone commits burglary of a residential structure while the occupants are present, often involving threats or violence. This is treated as one of the gravest offenses in the California penal code, and prosecutors pursue maximum penalties. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.
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 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 & Related Offenses
Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing
These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. You need a Santa Fe Springs, 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
While theft-related, receiving stolen property cases are their own challenge. Under PC § 496, if you buy, receive, conceal, sell, or help conceal property that you know is stolen, you can be convicted — even if you had no role in the original theft.
The prosecution must prove you knew — or had reason to know — the property was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items at a great deal, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.
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 Santa Fe Springs, 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
Trespassing involves entering or remaining on another person's property without permission. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.
Without compounding charges, trespassing is normally 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. Fighting these charges is often a matter of whether or not the alleged offender did in fact have permission or the right to be there.
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: 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.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
Specialized & Enhanced Charges
Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes
These charges often carry enhanced penalties beyond standard theft offenses, and require attorneys with specific knowledge of the statutes involved.
Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)
Stealing a gun is extra serious in California — while the usual threshold for stealing something to be considered 'grand theft' is $950, there is no minimum value if the item stolen was a gun. Because of 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 combination of state and federal exposure makes this one of the most legally complex theft charges you can face. And it's even more critical to find 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
California law provides special enhanced protections for victims aged 65 or older (and dependent adults). You can be accused of financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) if you were allegedly in a position of trust for an older adult, and took advantage of their money.
This offense is aggressively prosecuted in Santa Fe Springs, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. Civil liability and restitution orders frequently accompany criminal proceedings, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.
Common scenarios: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member using power of attorney to take money; 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
During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. These cases are prosecuted especially hard under California Penal Code § 463, which increases the minimum penalties for many charges.
If the enhanced penalties weren't enough on their own, the Santa Fe Springs, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Santa Fe Springs while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. 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
Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Santa Fe Springs, CA. An attempt requires: (1) the desire to break the law, and (2) a direct, unequivocal act toward committing it — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.
The general rule is that attempted crimes are punished at half the sentence of the completed offense. So attempted robbery carries half the prison exposure of robbery. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.
Attempted burglary and attempted robbery are still strike offenses in California. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.
No matter what you've been accused of, when you reach out to us, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Santa Fe Springs, CA, who will help you break down and navigate the charges. As a team, 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. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, the alleged victim is accusing you, and a conviction could derail your life. When you're alone, it can seem impossible.
But you have an ally. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. A Santa Fe Springs, 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. Be polite and respectful during the process. Refusing to comply can only make things worse.
2. Act Calm and Don't Talk
There's a chance you'll be interviewed or interrogated – stay 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 you say something untruthful, you can be charged with perjury.
3. Reach Out to a Santa Fe Springs, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away
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
Before you can leave the jail, you'll probably have to go through a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will fight for your pre-trial release and lower bail requirements. We believe that protecting your freedom now is a part of protecting it for the long term.
5. Coordinate With Your Attorney to Create a Defense Strategy
This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. A skillful theft crimes lawyer in Santa Fe Springs, CA, will hear your side of the story, negotiate for deals with the prosecution, and argue for charges to be dismissed wherever possible.
Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges
Your case is unique — and your defense strategy needs to be oriented to the specific facts, proof, and accusations. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Santa Fe Springs, 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. In Santa Fe Springs, CA, intent to commit theft specifically requires someone to plan to permanently take someone else's property away. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.
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 a defendant sincerely believed the property was theirs, owed to them as payment, or that they had permission to take it, this can negate the required criminal intent. The belief does not have to be correct; it only has to be genuine. Additional intent-based defenses include: mistake of fact (the accused took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).
Key point: 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. This is a key part of nearly all theft defenses, especially in cases involving property disputes, family conflicts, and many civil debt situations.
Using This Defense:
- Grand Theft: Charges may not apply if there was no intention to keep the allegedly stolen item
- Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
- Fraud / False Pretenses: Can apply when the defendant didn't know that what they were saying was false
- Receiving Stolen Property: Challenges knowledge that property was stolen
Illegal Search & Seizure in Theft/Burglary Cases
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, critical evidence — stolen property, alleged tools of the crime, communications, financial records — is frequently obtained through police searches. If the investigators disobeyed regulations, the evidence can be suppressed and the district attorney may not be able to move forward with your case.
Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: searches conducted without either a warrant or just cause; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that go beyond the scope of a legally obtained warrant. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — suppression of unlawfully abstained evidence motions can destroy the prosecution's argument, leading to dropped or dismissed charges.
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 Santa Fe Springs, 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, valid consent, 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
Innocent people are charged with theft crimes more often than the public realizes. False accusations can result from personal disagreements, misidentification by witnesses, mistaken assumptions about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — aggressive and immediate defense is essential from the moment of accusation.
Eyewitness misidentification is one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions nationally. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, the high intensity of the circumstances can lead to witnesses not remembering details clearly — most notably across racial lines, if they didn't have a clear sightline, or when things moved too fast. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Santa Fe Springs, CA, court.
Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: providing evidence that proves the accused could not have been present because they were in another location; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; attacking the character of the person making the allegations; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and demonstrating inconsistencies between witness statements made at different points in time.
If you are innocent: Stay away from witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without your theft attorney present. It's easy to say something that seems innocuous but accidentally makes yourself look guilty. Whatever your circumstances, if you're facing theft charges, call our lawyers now for help.
Lack of Knowledge — For receiving stolen property and possession of a stolen vehicle, the Santa Fe Springs, CA, prosecutor must prove you were aware that the property was obtained through theft. 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 — Consent regarding your use of the property is a strong defense in Santa Fe Springs, CA, theft cases. 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 — Especially for offenders without a record, California offers diversion programs that can result in charges being dismissed after completing community service, restitution, or counseling. This is often a favorable outcome for our clients that we will fight to secure.
Contesting the Property Valuation — 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. You shouldn't face charges that are disproportionate to the alleged act.
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. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully done all that was asked of you as a part of probation, such as paying fines and restitution; not currently be charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for any other offense; and — following recent changes in the law — in many cases, must not have been incarcerated in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).
If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. 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. However, expungement does not seal a criminal record from all access — it does not restore firearm rights, 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) 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.
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 for the record to be totally inaccessible, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, you'll have to look into other ways to have your record sealed. 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: Charges dismissed after successful probation completion
- PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (available 1 year after the conviction)
- PC § 851.91: Arrest record sealing where no conviction resulted
- 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Santa Fe Springs, CA
Is there a difference between petty theft and grand theft in Santa Fe Springs, 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. 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.
Can a theft charge be expunged from my record in California?
Often, yes. California Penal Code § 1203.4 allows for expungement of misdemeanor and many felony theft convictions after successful completion of probation. If you want to leave the past behind and move on with your life, this can be a major step forward. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.
What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Santa Fe Springs, CA?
While this is still serious, you don't need to panic just yet — you will probably only face misdemeanor charges. Frequently, you can participate in a diversionary program instead of serving a jail sentence, and if you are successful, the charges will be dismissed. Our theft crimes attorneys can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and protecting your record.
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, that is a strong defense. This is a strategy we frequently lean on in receiving stolen property cases. That said, circumstances like an unusually low price or lack of receipts can lessen the strength of your defense, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.
How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Santa Fe Springs, CA?
Very serious. You can expect your grand theft auto case to be charged as a felony, with increased penalties. If you have a criminal record, you are at risk of harsher penalties. Get in touch with 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. A large portion of theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. One of the most important things a theft crimes attorney can do is push for misdemeanor treatment of wobbler charges, which dramatically reduces potential consequences.
Will I go to jail for a theft charge?
It depends, but it is not always the case. Many theft cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail time through diversion programs, probation, community service, or fines. While felony charges can be harder to avoid prison for, it is still possible in some cases. The specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Call our firm to review what options exist in your case.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether you stole something or not doesn't matter — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. This is why intent evidence — and challenging how it's proven — is critical to burglary defense.
Up Against Theft Charges in Santa Fe Springs, CA? Call Now.
Every theft allegation is a big deal. Our attorneys are prepared to defend you — no matter when you need us. You can call our attorneys today to start building your defense.
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