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Theft Lawyer South San Diego, CA. Being arrested for theft is just the beginning . It's easy to feel lost when you're up against theft charges. It might look like all hope is lost.

Even when you're up against the toughest battle of your life, don't give up yet. You have a team who will defend your freedom: 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 South San Diego, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team building your defense, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.

Talk to a lawyer right away at (800) 755-5174 or send us a message about your case for a private review of your case at no cost. Waiting too long to reach out can cost you everything.

Why You Need a Leading South San Diego, CA, Theft Defense Lawyer

Theft crime accusations are always a big deal, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. On your own, you're stuck trying to navigate a complicated legal code and increase your risk of the following penalties:

1. Jail Sentence: Most theft charges in South San Diego, CA, carry a potential jail sentence of six months or more.
2. Financial Penalties: On top of paying back the value of whatever was stolen, fines can give you a serious financial burden.
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 South San Diego, 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:

Why You Should Hire Our South San Diego, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

Picking the right South San Diego, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what you get when you call us — and why it matters for your theft case:

• 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 — Decades of practice in South San Diego, 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 — We prepare every case as if it's going to trial. Even if your case doesn't end up in trial, this gives us more leverage for negotiations.
• Record Expungement Services — We don't leave you behind after the verdict. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
• Excellent Reputation – We are renowned professionally and by clients.
• Available 24/7 — Our team is available whenever you need us most. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
• Totally Private — You can trust us with everything about your case. We won't judge — we're just here to build the strongest case possible.

Theft Charges We Will Fight in South San Diego, CA

Click any charge below to navigate directly to a full explanation of the law, penalties, and additional information.

Attempted Burglary | Attempted Robbery | Bribery | Burglary (Residential) | Burglary of a Vehicle | Carjacking | Commercial Burglary | Credit Card Fraud | Elder Financial Abuse | Embezzlement | Extortion | Forgery | Fraud / False Pretenses | Grand Theft | Grand Theft Auto | Grand Theft of a Firearm | Health Care Fraud | Home Health Fraud | Home Invasion Burglary | Hospice Fraud | Identity Theft | Insurance Fraud | Joyriding | Looting | Medicare Fraud | Money Laundering | Perjury | Petty Theft | Petty Theft with a Prior | Possession of Stolen Vehicle | Receiving Stolen Property | Robbery | Shoplifting (PC 459.5) | Theft from an Elder | Trespassing | Vandalism | Vehicle Theft | Welfare Fraud | White Collar Crimes

Major South San Diego, CA, Theft Crimes We Defend Against

Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in South San Diego, CA, act fast: Reach out right away for a free, confidential consultation.

Below are some of the main theft crime accusations we fight against in South San Diego, CA:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

In South San Diego, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property without permission. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: If it was $950 or less, the charges will generally be petty theft, while any more will normally be grand theft.

Fighting petty theft allegations is typically more straightforward, as they are often (but not always) charged as misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. Whichever type of charge you're facing, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.

Here's a breakdown of what distinguishes petty and grand theft:

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

Proposition 47 was passed in 2014, defining and setting penalties for shoplifting. Prior to 2014, it was actually considered a form of burglary, instead of a distinct crime. A person commits shoplifting when they go into an open store in order to steal $950 or less worth of goods.

In the past, because shoplifting fell under burglary, it was more likely to be charged as a felony. Since 2014, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that you could still face felony charges in some circumstances, such as if you have certain previous convictions on your record. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local South San Diego, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and avoid making mistakes that could have major consequences.

Organized retail theft (multiple defendants or repeat offenses coordinated to steal from retailers) is increasingly prosecuted aggressively by South San Diego, CA, prosecutors following recent state legislation.

Shoplifting Potential 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 are: Lack of intent to steal, innocence, entrapment by loss prevention, Fourth Amendment violations during detention, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666

Petty theft charges are usually misdemeanors, but not always. Because of Penal Code § 666, a petty theft with a prior can be charged as a felony. South San Diego, CA prosecutors can use this law against you to turn even a small-time theft allegation into a wobbler — meaning that you could be facing years in prison.

To activate this sentencing enhancement, the South San Diego, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the defendant engaged in petty theft; and (2) the defendant has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.

Possible Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in South San Diego, CA

We will fight against all sorts of vehicle theft crimes in South San Diego, CA. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's technically 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. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're probably going to be charged with joyriding. While either joyriding or grand theft auto can be 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in South San Diego, 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. In the same vein as receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Simply owning or keeping the car or truck can result in these charges.

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll get a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Contact us today to start making your case.

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

If you allegedly stole a car, you might expect to face grand theft auto charges. However, grand theft auto does not have its own statute in California — it is a subcategory of grand theft that applies specifically to the theft of any motor vehicle, regardless of its value. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.

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 South San Diego, 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. This is because § 10851 applies whether or not the alleged offender was going to return the automobile. 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 is a similar charge to grand theft auto, with one key difference: The alleged offender was going to give the car back. Despite the casual name, this is a serious criminal offense that is treated as a wobbler in California — it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

In most circumstances, South San Diego, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. 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

If you had to pick the worst vehicle theft crime to be charged with, carjacking would be a leading contender. 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 often has a mandatory prison sentence, as probation is not an option.

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 South San Diego, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you are in possession of 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.

We see this charge often in cases where someone borrowed or bought a car without having access to its full history. The prosecution must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — and that's often where your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can challenge the case.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year

White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in South San Diego, CA

White collar crimes in South San Diego, CA, can look very different from each other, but each of them have a common trait: abuse of an organization for personal gain.

Many white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is the theft of money someone was supposed to manage for others, like an investment banker taking from a client's account. Money laundering an attempt to hide illegal money as legal income. For example, if someone made money from a drug deal, then pretended to have another person pay them for a job, that would be money laundering. 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 transactional in nature, though (at least at first glance). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft is the taking of another person's personal information. You can face either of these charges without having taken money from the alleged victim.

Embezzlement, Identity Theft, Bribery & More

White collar crimes carry severe consequences even without physical violence — years in prison, massive fines, professional license revocation, and long-lasting reputational damage. 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. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal benefit. These cases are some of the most complicated in South San Diego, CA, and normally require highly experienced representation to defend.

White collar cases are often investigated for months or even years before charges are filed. If you believe you are under investigation — or have received a subpoena, a target letter, or a visit from federal agents — call us immediately. Pre-charge representation can sometimes prevent an indictment entirely.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

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

Hypothetical examples: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; an employee skimming from cash registers; a charity collector taking cash donations while leaving other types alone.

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: Full restitution, professional consequences

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering is the process of making illegally obtained money appear to have come from a legitimate source. It typically consists of three stages: placement (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (investing the funds into something legal, or using another method to extract them into seemingly-legitimate assets).

California's money laundering statute is set to combat transactions 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, carrying sentences up to 20 years.

Potential Penalties (State):

• Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Fines: Up to $250,000 or twice the amount laundered
• Federal Add-On: Up to 20 years federal prison

Bribery — California Penal Code § 67–68 / § 92

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of government officials, judges, lawmakers, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever form of bribery you've been accused of, a South San Diego, CA, theft crimes lawyer is important to advise you on how to address these charges.

Important: Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it can be charged in South San Diego, CA. Attempted bribery charges are even possible, if one person tries to bribe another, and the second person refuses it.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
• Public Officials: Permanent ineligibility for office
• Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. California's forgery statute is broad and covers bills, money orders, contracts, deeds, power of attorney documents, warrants, prescriptions, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.

What if I didn't use the forged document? 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 act of creating or using the fake item, is sufficient to be convicted.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year

Identity Theft — California Penal Code § 530.5

You can face identity theft allegations in South San Diego, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission for any unlawful purpose, such as obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.

Important factor: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Just taking and using another individual's information without a legal reason is enough to warrant a crime under California statute § 530.5. Because of this, you need to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the particular of your case.

South San Diego, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and often involve 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 Fight in South San Diego, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in South San Diego, CA. Broadly speaking, someone who commits theft by acting dishonestly 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 one of the most common types of fraud. It involves lying on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, after a car accident, a person who lies about how much damage was caused to get a bigger payout is guilty of insurance fraud.

A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where someone takes advantage of government assistance programs by providing false information to them. An example of this would be claiming a child as a dependent to receive financial support, when the child has in fact moved out.

Another common form is credit card fraud. This type of fraud involves dishonesty about the credit card and/or how it was acquired. If the card is counterfeit or expired, but you allegedly try to use it anyways, you can face these charges.

When you're on your own, trying to figure out what fraud charges you're facing can feel impossible. With a leading South San Diego, CA theft crimes lawyer, you have someone who can help you navigate through the complexity.

Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

You could face accusations of fraud in South San Diego, CA, for a wide variety of actions — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. Because the evidence can be very complex and there can be a large amount of it, you need an expert theft crimes lawyer who can effectively navigate all of the intricacies.

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

Theft by false pretenses — the foundational fraud offense — occurs when one person tricks another person through disonest means, 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; pitching investments based on false information; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.

If you're facing theft by false pretenses charges, it could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The level depends on the how much was stolen — if the total value was more than $950, you are likely looking at grand theft (and possible felony) charges.

Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550

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. Insurance fraud charges are always a big deal, and are often felonies in South San Diego, CA. A leading theft crimes lawyer will defend your freedom and explore all avenues to help you find the best outcome possible

Common forms include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing false theft reports; inflating repair cost claims; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; fabricating injuries; double billing for a health service.

Possible Penalties:

• Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
• Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
• Additional: License revocation for professionals

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

In South San Diego, 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 permission, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or fraudulently acquiring or selling card account information.

Regarding federal charges: Credit card fraud frequently triggers federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1029 in addition to state charges, particularly when cards 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; misrepresenting household composition; using another person's EBT card; falsely claiming a dependent child; not reporting new circumstances that would end benefits eligibility.

Welfare fraud investigations are conducted by county district attorney welfare fraud units and can result in both criminal charges and demands for repayment of all benefits received. Your premier South San Diego, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.

Potential Penalties:

• Under $950 (typically): Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• Repayment: Full restitution to the government

Additional: Loss of future benefit eligibility

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

Hospice fraud accusations in South San Diego, 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 legally receiveMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must have a projected lifespan of six months or less if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — it's common for the prosecution to allege that the patient's condition did not meet this criteria in these cases.

While highly unfortunate, hospice fraud allegations can arise from misunderstandings on the part of the patient's family. Grieving family members can erroneously blame health care professionals who were dedicated to helping their patients. These accusations are particularly dangerous because they are often charged in federal court in South San Diego, CA, meaning you're up against very difficult odds.

Critical Note: Even if you have a plan for the criminal charges, don't let your guard down — it's very likely that you'll face a civil lawsuit in conjunction with the criminal charges. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. Providers are often unaware that an investigation is underway until a search warrant is executed.

Potential Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
• Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus $13,000–$27,000 per false claim
• State Charges: Up to 5 years (CA Penal Code § 550)
• Extra: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal programs; license revocation

Medicare Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b

Medicare fraud allegations go beyond that of a typical theft. As the name would suggest, these are accusations that someone took undeserved benefits from the government's Medicare program. In South San Diego, CA, Medicare fraud charges are normally conducted in federal court, rather than by the local prosecutor. You need a theft lawyer who operates at a high level to protect you from these charges.

While both providers and receivers of care can be convicted of medicare fraud, it's most often providers who are accused. This is especially devastating because of its career impact: you can lose your license and be excluded from working in a healthcare program. Because Medicare billing data is centrally maintained, federal agents can identify statistical anomalies and billing patterns across thousands of claims — meaning investigations often begin long before a provider is aware they are being scrutinized.

Warning: 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: Mandatory exclusion from all federal health care programs

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

Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. These allegations apply in broader situations than Medicare, including when a non-governmental insurance agency is involved.

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. Without an expert South San Diego, 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 workers, and support staff have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.

Possible Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
• If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
• State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
• Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
• Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences

Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b

Home health fraud is a subcategory of Medicare and Medicaid fraud that specifically targets the fraudulent billing for in-home health services — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. To qualify for Medicare benefits, the person receiving care must be homebound and require special care. Home health fraud exploits this framework in a variety of ways.

One example would be a patient who lied about being homebound in order to receive special benefits. A counterexample would be a home service provider who submitted claims to Medicare for services that were never provided. Home health fraud charges in South San Diego, 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 United States' Stark Law makes it a crime for a doctor to refer a medicare patient to a home health company, if the doctor makes money from that company. Outside of the criminal case, you can face fines, need to pay restitution, and be excluded from Medicare — and a Stark Law violation does not require proof of intent.

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 South San Diego, CA

There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in South San Diego, CA. This can occur if you're charged with robbery. A person commits robbery when they take something directly from another person by force. As opposed to burglary, the alleged theft occurred away from the alleged victim. Carjacking can be compared to grand theft auto in the same way.

That said, sometimes what started out as a burglary can end up with violent crime charges. 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. 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. 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

If you allegedly threatened or attacked someone in the course of committing theft, your case is even more serious. These charges are always felonies and often carry strike designations. Your South San Diego, CA theft crimes lawyer should be someone who knows how to fight violent crime charges as well — at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience successfully defending against both.

Robbery — California Penal Code § 211

Robbery is 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.

The state of California divides robbery charges into two degrees:

• First-Degree Robbery: This is charged when the alleged offense took place:
  1. In someone's house, vehicle, or other building,
  2. In a taxi, or
  3. While the alleged victim was using an ATM
• Second-Degree Robbery: This is charged in any other circumstances

The penalties are usually worse for first-degree robbery.

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 to immigration authorities unless paid; threatening to release private photos unless money is provided; threatening to harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.

Potential Penalties:

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

Burglary Charges We Fight in South San Diego, CA

Burglary is often charged along with theft in South San Diego, CA. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft 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 smashed a car window to steal a wallet sitting on the seat, that would fall under 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, 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. But after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. The differences in charges had a major impact for several offenses and penalties. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in South San Diego, CA (except in extreme cases).

Vandalism also shares many qualities with burglary. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by breaking a window to in the process of a theft. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in South San Diego, CA, doubling the importance of working with an expert theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.

Lastly, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in South San Diego, CA. 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

South San Diego, CA burglary charges can be wildly different from one another, and may not even involve theft — 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. Your motivation for entering the location is the key to burglary charges.

This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and South San Diego, CA courts are likely to give you a long sentence. 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 eligible 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.

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. A typical example of this would be an alleged offender breaking into a car to steal a backpack or wallet within. The details of this charge are different from case to case, because burglary of a vehicle could either be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.

Key distinction: The vehicle must be locked for a burglary charge to apply. This is still against the law, but the burglary enhancement requires that the vehicle was secured in some way.

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

A home invasion occurs when someone commits burglary of a residential structure while the occupants are present, often involving threats or violence. This is treated as one of the gravest offenses in the California penal code, and prosecutors pursue maximum penalties. It's even more important to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer than usual in these cases.

Home invasion burglary frequently brings multiple charges simultaneously — first-degree burglary, robbery, assault, and potentially kidnapping — all carrying their own prison terms, often served consecutively. If you are fighting 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

These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. You need a South San Diego, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

This charge applies to some people who are indirectly involved in a theft. 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.

Receiving stolen property charges can fall apart if you can prove you weren't aware that the item was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items at an unusually low price, without receipts, 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 is the malicious defacement, damage, or destruction of another person's property. It is often charged alongside burglary when, for example, a window is broken to gain entry to a home or vehicle. It also applies to graffiti, which is one of the most commonly prosecuted forms of vandalism in South San Diego, CA.

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

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
• Additional: Graffiti cleanup, community service

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. 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 ordinarilly charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, South San Diego, 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: Anything you say during an investigation or prosecution can be used to support a perjury charge if it's later shown to be false. This is why we always advise clients to say nothing without a theft crimes attorney present.

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. Firearm theft can have long-lasting implications, beyond most other theft offenses — this is because it counts as a strike on your record.

As if fighting the charges in your local South San Diego, 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 have an attorney that has wide resources and strong legal skills.

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). Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) is similar to embezzlement, in that it's possible the alleged offender had legitimate access to the property. If someone either misused the property or manipulated an elderly person to give it to them, that would violate this law.

This offense is aggressively prosecuted in South San Diego, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. In addition to the legal penalties, you could also face a civil suit, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.

Examples: Caregiver overcharging for services; family member using power of attorney to take money; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; impostor pretends to be a law enforcement official.

Potential Penalties:

• Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
• Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
• Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
• Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court

Looting — California Penal Code § 463

Looting charges arise when theft or burglary occurs during a state of emergency, local emergency, evacuation order, or major disaster. 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 South San Diego, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. During declared states of emergency, prosecutors seek the harshest available penalties, and courts are generally unsympathetic. 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) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.

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 while residential burglary carries a prison sentence of 2, 4, or 6 years, attempted residential burglary would only carry a sentence of 1, 2, or 3 years. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.

Even though they are not successful, attempted robbery and attempted burglary can still leave a strike on your criminal record. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.

Regardless of what charge you're facing, when you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you can speak with an expert theft crimes lawyer in South San Diego, 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

Being charged with theft can be intimidating. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, not everyone will believe your side of the story, and a conviction could derail your life. Without help, the odds can seem insurmountable.

But you're not alone. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. When you work with us, you will get a South San Diego, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. To get started, use the five steps below to protect your freedom and avoid common pitfalls:

1. Obey the Arresting Officer's Instructions

Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Fighting back can only lead to additional charges.

2. Act Calm and Don't Talk

It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – invoke your right to remain silent. In fact, don't even talk on the ride to the station. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be charged with perjury.

3. Reach Out to a South San Diego, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away

In California, after you are processed for arrest, you get three phone calls. 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. Your rights and freedom matter, no matter what you've been accused of.

5. Work With Your Lawyer to Create a Defense Strategy

This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in South San Diego, CA, will take the time to listen to you, negotiate for deals with the prosecution, and argue for a dismissal whenever possible.

How Our Theft Lawyers Fight Against These Charges

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy must be oriented to the specific details, proof, and accusations. If you're up against theft allegations in South San Diego, CA, here are some of the main defensive strategies your theft crimes lawyer should consider. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience with all of them.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

One of the most powerful defenses in any theft case is the absence of criminal intent. 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. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.

Claim of right is a related defense — if the accused didn't know that they were stealing a piece of property because they thought that they had permission to take it, they would lack the intent needed for a conviction. 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. More related defenses include: mistake of fact (the accused took the wrong item believing it to be their own); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).

Key principle: You don't have to prove your intentions, but you may have to defend them against the prosecution. It's on the state to show that you did have the intent to commit theft at the time of the alleged crime. This isn't merely a backup plan. It is often the strongest available defense, especially in cases involving property disputes, family conflicts, and many civil debt situations.

Using This Defense:

• Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
• Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
• Fraud / False Pretenses: Attacks the knowing misrepresentation element
• 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 many criminal cases, critical evidence — stolen property, alleged tools of the crime, communications, financial records — is frequently obtained through police searches. If the investigators didn't follow the rules, the evidence can be thrown out and the district attorney may need to drop charges.

Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause leading to an invalid search at the time of the arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that go beyond the limits of a legal warrant. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.

In some cases, this is all it takes to mount a successful defense against theft charges. Even partial suppression — in cases where a subset of the evidence against the defendant is suppressed — can make a big difference. Suppression motions are fully litigated in South San Diego, CA, courts, and are an essential tool for the defense when facing theft charges.

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

The South San Diego, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can stem from personal disagreements, misidentification by witnesses, mistaken assumptions about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. You can't rely on your innocence to get you out of trouble — 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 — particularly across racial lines, in scenarios of poor visibility, or when things moved too fast. 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 South San Diego, CA, court.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: establishing an alibi with corroborating witnesses, records, or surveillance footage; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; attacking the character of the accuser; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and highlighting inconsistencies between witness statements made at different points in time.

If you are facing false allegations: Stay away from witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without an 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 — If you merely were holding property that turned out to be stolen, the South San Diego, CA, prosecutor must prove you were aware that the property was obtained through theft. 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. 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.

Rights Violations — From Miranda rights violations to due process claims, we examine your case for every constitutional protection that may have been violated — and use those violations to suppress evidence, challenge the prosecution's case, or secure a dismissal.

Diversion Programs — Particularly for offenders without a record, California offers sentencing alternatives that can protect you from a conviction. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.

Contesting the Property Valuation — In many cases, your charges are determined by how much was allegedly taken. Lower amounts lead to lesser charges. We challenge inflated or unsupported property valuations, which can dramatically reduce the charges you face.

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, 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 have any pending criminal charges against you; and — as a more recent restriction — in several cases, must not have spent time in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).

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: In particular, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. However, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it doesn't allow gun ownership, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in South San Diego, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.

Critical Note: Expungement under § 1203.4 does not seal the record from law enforcement, licensing boards, or subsequent criminal proceedings. 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'll have to look into other ways to have your record sealed. Consulting with an experienced attorney before pursuing any post-conviction relief is strongly advisable.

Relief Options:

• PC § 1203.4: Dismissal 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: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases

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South San Diego, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in South San Diego, California?


What you are charged with is primarily determined by how much whatever was supposedly taken was worth. Anything $950 and under should be a petty theft charge, which is often a misdemeanor. Grand theft is usually the result of thefts over $950, but can also be triggered in special circumstances (such as if the supposedly stolen item was a gun or a car). Grand theft 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. If you want to leave the past behind and move on with your life, this can be a major step forward. Your theft crimes lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to explore this as an option for your case and walk you through the process if so.

What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in South San Diego, 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. Our theft crimes attorneys can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.

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


If the charge you are facing is one of receiving stolen property, as a part of securing a conviction the prosecution needs to prove that you knew (or should have known) that the property was stolen. If you sincerely weren't aware 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. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can be used against you, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in South San Diego, CA?


Extremely. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have a criminal record, you may also face enhanced sentencing. Call one of our attorneys right away if you're facing this charge.

What is a "wobbler" offense in California?


The state of California defines several offenses as "wobblers," which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecuting attorney makes this call based on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Several theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. One of the most important things a theft crimes attorney can do is push for misdemeanor treatment of wobbler charges, which dramatically reduces potential consequences.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


You can avoid jail in many cases, actually. Many theft cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail time through diversion programs, probation, community service, or fines. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. Your lawyer can make a major difference in this regard, and working with an experienced one is essential. Call our firm to review what options you have.

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


Yes. In California, you can be convicted of burglary for trespassing for the purposes of committing theft or a felony. Whether you actually took anything is irrelevant — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. As a result, intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is central to burglary defense.

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Fighting Theft Allegations in South San Diego, CA? Contact Us Right Away.

Every theft allegation is a big deal. Our firm is ready to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us now for a free, confidential case review.

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