Theft Lawyer Whittier, CA. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they're facing criminal charges. Theft accusations in particular can be scary, because they are often layered with multiple charges. It might look like all hope is lost.
Even when you can't figure out what to do on your own, there is an option who will fight for you: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our lawyers have what it takes to guard your freedom against the prosecution. With a Whittier, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team defending your freedom, you'll have someone by your side from day one until you get justice.
Speak with a theft crimes lawyer now at (800) 755-5174 or use our contact form for a private review of your case at no cost. It's easy to get started, and acting fast can mean everything.
How a Whittier, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You
Theft charges need to be treated seriously, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to navigate a complicated legal system and increase your risk of the following penalties:
- Jail Sentence: Most theft charges in Whittier, CA, carry a potential jail sentence of six months or more.
- Fines: You can lose hundreds or thousands of dollars in addition to paying recompense to the alleged victim.
- Career Setbacks: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
- Damaged Character: You can face unfair and unjust labels that get in the way of your moving on with your life.
- And more.
A Whittier, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is ready to help. Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
Top Qualities of Our Whittier, CA Theft Defense Attorneys
Working with our expert Whittier, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what you get when you call us — and the difference it will make for your case:
- A Team Of Former District Attorneys & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We know common weak points and how to attack the prosecution's case.
- Extensive Court Relationships — With over 50 years of combined courtroom experience, we have built up relationships with the Whittier, CA prosecutors and judges, which we will use when securing plea deals.
- Trial-Ready From Day One — No matter what the charge is, we prepare as if for a trial. This posture often produces better plea negotiations and dismissals — because the prosecution knows we're not bluffing.
- Record Expungement Services — Even after the fact, we're still here to help. Don't let an arrest or criminal record hold you back — speak with one of our Whittier, CA, criminal defense attorneys to discuss expungement options.
- Stellar Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
- Always Availalbe — We know that arrests don't happen on a schedule. If you need a theft crime attorney, you shouldn't need to wait for regular business hours. And with our team, you don't have to.
- Completely Confidential — 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 Whittier, CA
Click any charge below to jump 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
Theft Cases We Fight in Whittier, CA
With over 50 years of combined legal experience, we have what it takes to protect your rights. Should you need a theft crimes lawyer in Whittier, CA, act fast: contact us right away for a free, confidential consultation.
We cover all of the following types of charges and more:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
In Whittier, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. At a basic level, these are almost the same act: taking someone else's money or items when you weren't allowed to. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: If it was $950 or less, the charges will ordinarily be petty theft, while higher values will ordinarily be grand theft.
Fighting petty theft charges is typically more straightforward, as they are often (but not always) charged as misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges pose a greater obstacle, because they are frequently charged as felonies. 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:
| Alleged Violation | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Stolen Property Value | $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. Shoplifting is defined as entering a business during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
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, 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. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Whittier, 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) has been a target of recent California laws, and is prosecuted harshly in Whittier, CA.
Shoplifting Potential Penalties:
- Jail Time: Up to 6 months
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
- Other: Probation, banned from store
Potential defenses consist of: Theft was unintentional, 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
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. Whittier, 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.
If you're facing petty theft with a prior allegations, the Whittier, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the suspect committed petty theft; and (2) the suspect has a criminal record including at least one of a set list of previous offenses (mostly including theft crimes, but also some sex crimes) — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. While most of the applicable prior convictions are theft related, they also include some sexual and violent crimes.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Applicable Priors: Prior theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions
Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Whittier, CA
Whatever Whittier, CA, vehicle theft charge you're facing, we can help you fight it. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a unique charge. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection of California'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 defendant did intend to return it, they're probably going to be charged with joyriding. While either joyriding or grand theft auto can be 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in Whittier, CA, since the prosecution is more likely to assign that as a misdemeanor.
If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. Just like receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Just owning or holding onto the vehicle can get you arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle.
When you contact our law firm, 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. Call now 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 — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.
Grand theft auto charges often hinge on your intentions during the alleged theft — if you were going to bring it back, then it wasn't technically a theft, it was joyriding.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Whittier, CA)
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Vehicle Code § 10851 is one of the main vehicle theft laws in California. Unlike grand theft auto, this statute does not require intent to permanently deprive the owner. This law is relevant any time someone allegedly drives a vehicle without permission.
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 refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. Even though it's not normally as bad as grand theft auto, it can still be charged as a felony. To protect your freedom, you need an experienced Whittier, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.
In most circumstances, Whittier, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. However, you could face felony charges if you have a criminal record, or the prosecutor thought the action was particularly bad.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Main Difference | Return the vehicle afterwards | Keep the vehicle forever |
| Usual Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215
If you had to pick the worst vehicle theft crime to be charged with, carjacking would be a leading contender. 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 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 Whittier, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you have a car that you knew or should have known was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.
We see this charge often in cases where someone borrowed or bought a car without having access to its full history. The prosecution must prove you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can argue that you didn't.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in Whittier, CA
White collar crimes in Whittier, CA, can look very different from each other, but all of them share one thing in common: taking advantage of one's position within an organization to benefit oneself, illegally.
Several white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is a good example of this: For this alleged crime, someone would legally be in charge of a person's or organization's money, but would take from it for personal use. Money laundering can be done by an individual or an operation, and involves attempts to disguise illegal money as money that was legally earned. Meanwhile, bribery occurs when someone gives another person a gift in order to receive a favor, in a way that violates laws or regulations.
Not all white-collar crimes involve financial exchanges, though (at least at first glance). Forgery is when someone creates a fake document with intentions to use it in a future theft, and identity theft is the taking of someone's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.
Embezzlement, Money Laundering, Fraud & More
Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — years in prison, massive fines, major career setbacks, and long-lasting stains on your reputation. These cases require attorneys with deep financial and legal sophistication.
White Collar Crimes — Synopsis
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. These charges will include the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal benefit. Whittier, CA, because of its proximity to major financial and entertainment centers, sees some of California's most complex white collar prosecutions.
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. In some cases, we can intervene early and prevent charges from even being filed.
Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503
Embezzlement is when someone legally can use property for certain purposes, but uses it for different ones. The main feature is the pre-existing lawful access — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.
Frequent embezzlement scenarios: An accountant siphoning company funds; a bookkeeper writing unauthorized checks to themselves; a financial advisor moving client funds to personal accounts; an employee skimming from cash registers; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- High Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
- Additional: Full restitution, professional consequences
Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10
Money laundering involves taking money gained from a different crime and disguising it as being honestly earned. It typically consists of three stages: placement (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (the dirty money is moved multiple times within the financial system to make it hard to follow), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).
California's money laundering statute aims at transactions higher than $5,000 that involved illegally obtained funds, so long as the person involved knew they were illegal. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, carrying sentences up to 20 years.
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 exchange for influencing the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — elected officials, judges, legislators, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what position you're in, a Whittier, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to give you insights into successful defense strategies.
What if they didn't accept the bribe? Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it could face charges in Whittier, 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
Whittier, CA, forgery charges don't directly involve theft, but instead the creation or modification of a document in order to aid with a future fraud attempt. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers bills, money orders, stock certificates, deeds, power of attorney documents, warrants, prescriptions, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.
Who can face forgery charges? 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, combined with the creation or use of 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
In Whittier, CA, identity theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal identifying information — name, Social Security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or other data — to perform a restricted activity, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.
Crucially: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Just obtaining and using another individual's information without permission is enough to warrant a crime under state law. This makes it critical to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the details of your situation.
Whittier, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and often involve federal charges for more serious, widespread, or online cases.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Per Victim: Charges can stack — one count per victim
- Federal: Up to 15–30 years (aggravated cases)
Fraud Charges We Defend in Whittier, CA
Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Whittier, CA, and it has several subcategories. Broadly speaking, a person who commits theft by acting dishonestly so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is is one of the more common version of fraud.
Insurance fraud is a specific variation where a person allegedly lies on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, a person who intentionally burns down their house then tells the insurance company that it was an accident is guilty of insurance fraud.
A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where a person lies about their current circumstances to receive extra assistance from the government. 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 variation 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 Whittier, 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
Fraud charges in Whittier, CA, cover a vast range of conduct — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to have experience not only with the state law, but also following financial trails.
Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532
Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in Whittier. These allegations are used when a person tricks another person through disonest means, causing them to voluntarily transfer money or property. As opposed to forceful or unknowing theft, theft by false prestenses involves the alleged victim deliberately parting with their goods because of the deception.
Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; pretending to be a tech support assistant; pitching investments based on false information; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.
Because the amount defrauded can vary, so does the penalty. It depends on the how much was stolen — if the total value was more than $950, you are likely looking at grand theft (and possible felony) charges.
Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550
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 Whittier, CA. An expert theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and analyze all the evidence to help you find the best outcome possible
Typical forms include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; exaggerating property damage; arson for insurance proceeds; fabricating injuries; health insurance billing fraud.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
- Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
- Additional: License revocation for professionals
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
In Whittier, CA, credit card fraud covers a wide range of conduct involving fraudulent use of credit or debit cards. Charges can occur if someone is caught using another individual's card without permission, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or fraudulently obtaining or selling card account information.
Note on federal charges: You are likely to face both federal and state charges, particularly when cards are used across state lines or the internet is involved. 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; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; Trading or selling food stamps; falsely claiming a dependent child; not reporting new circumstances that would end benefits eligibility.
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. A leading Whittier, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.
Possible Penalties:
- Under $950 (commonly): 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 qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must have a terminal prognosis of six months or less to live if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — a threshold that fraudulent providers routinely falsify.
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. And as if it weren't bad enough going up against the Whittier, CA, government, you're likely to face federal charges and accusations from federal investigators.
Critical Note: Hospice fraud investigations frequently involve parallel criminal and civil proceedings. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. Providers are often unaware that an investigation is underway until a search warrant is executed.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus $13,000–$27,000 per false claim
- State Charges: Up to 5 years (CA Penal Code § 550)
- Additional: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal programs; license revocation
Medicare Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Medicare fraud allegations go beyond that of a typical theft. As the name would suggest, these are accusations that someone took undeserved benefits from the government's Medicare program. In Whittier, 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.
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 Whittier, CA theft lawyer immediately.
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. 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 charges are normally related to a person providing false information on an insurance form, in order to receive an undeserved payout. 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's statute specifically outlaws false or misleading statements made in connection with insurance claims, including the submission of multiple claims for a single loss and the preparation of false medical reports. Without an expert Whittier, CA theft lawyer, you could be stuck trying to sift through mountains of medical billing records and other specialized evidence on your own. Doctors, billing organizations, office workers, and clerks have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.
Potential 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 — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. To qualify for Medicare reimbursement, the care recipient must be homebound and require specialized care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.
Common schemes include: billing for visits to patients who are not homebound and do not qualify; billing for services that were never provided; falsifying physician orders and certifications to manufacture eligibility; paying illegal kickbacks to recruiters, physicians, or patient cappers for referrals; and billing therapy services at inflated frequency levels unsupported by clinical documentation. Home health fraud charges in Whittier, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.
Critical Note: The 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 — even if you broke the law accidentally.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus penalties per false claim
- Administrative: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal; agency decertification
Violent Theft Charges We Defend in Whittier, CA
Violent crime charges and theft charges often go hand in hand in Whittier, 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, 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 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 a person threatened to attack their manager unless they were given a favorable schedule, that person could be accused of extortion.
Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft
Many theft crimes we outlined above do not involve violence. For charges that do, though, it's common to see much harsher sentencing. You're almost guaranteed to be facing felony charges. Your Whittier, 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
Many people confuse burglary and robbery, but they are actually very different crimes. Burglary generally occurs while the alleged victim is away, while in robbery cases, the supposed offender takes something from the alleged victim personally. Robbery is always a felony and always a strike offense.
Your robbery charge in Whittier, CA, could either be first-degree or second-degree. These are differentiated based on the location and the alleged victim. First-degree robbery is charged in cases where the alleged robbery occurred in someone's dwelling place, against the passenger or driver of a taxi/rideshare vehicle, or while the supposed victim was at an ATM.
Possible Penalties:
- 1st Degree Prison: 3, 4, or 6 years
- 2nd Degree Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Weapon Use: +3 to 10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony
Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518
If it's alleged that you threatened someone in order to make them give you money or favors, you are likely facing extortion charges. Not every extortion case involves threats of violence; several involve threats to harm someone's reputation instead.
Common examples: Threatening to report someone for a crime unless paid; threatening to release private photos unless money is provided; threatening to deny someone a rightful certification unless special favors are given.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Burglary Charges We Defend in Whittier, CA
Burglary technically isn't always a theft crime, but it is closely related. California defines burglary as entering a location without permission in order to steal something or commit another crime. In most cases, this is a structure, like a retail store (in which case it would be commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly smashed a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would be considered burglary of a vehicle.
No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, defenses to burglary charges can hinge on whether or not you had permission to be in the structure, and what your intentions were while you were there.
Burglary Related Charges
Shoplifting is closely related to commercial burglary. In fact, before 2014, what you think of as shoplifting would be classified as burglary under California law. However, after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. These changes had an immediate impact, even for people who had already been convicted. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in Whittier, CA (except in extreme cases).
Another related charge is vandalism. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by breaking a window to in order to steal from the building. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Whittier, CA, doubling the importance of working with a top quality theft crimes lawyer to defend you.
Finally, there is a theft charge you can be accused of in Whittier, CA, even if you didn't steal something. How does this happen? Receiving stolen property charges. This applies when someone supposedly buys, hides, or receives something that they know was taken unlawfully from another person.
Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges
California burglary law is broader than most people realize — you can be charged with burglary for entering a wide range of structures with the intent to commit a crime inside, even if you never actually steal anything.
Residential Burglary (First Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
In California, first-degree burglary, sometimes called residential burglary, involves going to someone's dwelling place for the purpose of committing a theft or any felony inside. Nothing actually needs to be stolen. Your motivation for entering the location is what matters.
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 Whittier, 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 eligible for first-degree
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Commercial Burglary (Second Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
Although less serious than first-degree burglary, second-degree burglary (AKA commercial burglary) charges are still not to be taken lightly. You could face either misdemeanor or felony charges for this offense.
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.
Potential Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Charge Type: Wobbler
Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459
Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.
Key distinction: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. 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
At the intersection of burglary and violent crimes are home invasion charges. Whittier, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.
While it's possible to be charged with home invasion on its own, it's rare — more often, they'll be accompanied with additional theft and/or violence charges. If you are up against home invasion charges, you need a law firm with a track record of success, and you need them now.
Possible Penalties:
- Burglary Base: 2, 4, or 6 years
- Robbery Add-On: Additional 2–5 years
- Weapon Enhancement: Additional 3–10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — multiple strikes possible
Property & Related Offenses
Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing
While no criminal theft charges are truly 'simple,' they are made far more complex when they are compounded with related or adjacent charges. Understanding how they interact is critical to building an effective defense.
Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496
You don't have to steal something to face theft-related criminal charges. 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. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items at a great deal, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594
Instead of violently harming another person or animal, vandalism is focused on property harm. It occurs when one person marks or damages another person's property, without permission and for bad purposes. This is related to theft because in many cases, the accused will be alleged to have broken into a location as a part of the theft.
While many theft charges become felonies if more than $950 is stolen, a vandalism charge can become a felony if just $400 or more worth of damage is done.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
- Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
- Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
- Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service
Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602
You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.
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. Defenses often hinge on whether permission was given or reasonably believed to exist.
Perjury — California Penal Code § 118
Perjury charges aren't unique to theft crimes, but are commonly seen alongside them. You can be found guilty of perjury if you lie to the police or during a trial. In theft cases, this can occur if you were interviewed by the police and stated you did not know where any of the stolen property was, even if you did.
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
Sometimes, two very similar theft offenses can receive very different charges. This can hinge on details such as what was allegedly stolen and/or who the alleged victim was.
Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)
California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. Due to this stealing even a nearly worthless firearm results in 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.
To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more important to work with an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.
Possible Penalties:
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Strike: Serious felony — potential strike offense
- Federal: Additional federal charges possible
Theft from an Elder / Financial Elder Abuse — Welfare & Institutions Code § 15610.30
Vulnerable adults, notably people 65 and older, are given extra protection in the California legal system. Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) occurs when someone takes, conceals, appropriates, obtains, or retains money or property from an elder by undue influence, fraud, or other wrongful conduct.
This offense is aggressively prosecuted in Whittier, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. In addition to the legal penalties, you could also face a civil suit, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.
Examples: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member doesn't provide an agreed upon level of care; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; impostor pretends to be a law enforcement official.
Possible Penalties:
- Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
- Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
- Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
- Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court
Looting — California Penal Code § 463
Disasters can be a time of panic. If, during the confusion, someone attempts to get away with theft, they may face looting charges. While theft and burglary are the root charges behind the action, looting increases the penalties significantly.
In Whittier, CA — a city prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and civil unrest events — looting charges have been prosecuted with particular vigor. These acts are viewed as particularly heinous, and penalties can be severe. If you allegedly broke into a business building during a wildfire and took some of its merchandise, you could face looting allegations.
Potential Penalties (Enhanced):
- Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
- Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
- Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
- Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods
Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery
Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Whittier, CA. Attempted theft, burglary, or robbery in California needs to include: (1) the desire to break the law, and (2) a tangible step is taken towards breaking the law — whatever the outcome was.
Most of the time, the punishment for an attempt is half of what it would have been, if it were completed. So attempted robbery carries half the prison exposure of robbery. 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. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.
No matter what you've been accused of, when you call us, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Whittier, CA, who has the training and experience needed to find a path forward. As a team, we will defend your rights and your freedom.
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. Without help, it can seem impossible.
But you have an ally. When you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you get premier California legal representation on your case. With one of our Whittier, CA, theft crimes lawyers on your case, you'll get honest, personalized legal advice on how to achieve the best outcome possible. Here are the steps we recommend taking:
1. Do Not Resist Arrest
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. Remain Calm and Don't Talk
You may be questioned by the police – invoke your right to remain silent. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and you say something untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.
3. Reach Out to a Whittier, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP
In California, people who have been arrested are given three phone calls. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. When you hire an attorney early on, you're increasing your opportunities for a favorable deal or case dismissal. We are available at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
4. Secure Bail for Release
Your lawyer can help argue for your release at a bail hearing. Our firm's theft crimes defense attorneys will argue against the prosecution for your release. We believe that protecting your freedom now is a part of protecting it for the long term.
5. Cooperate With Your Lawyer to Make a Personalized Defense
This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. An expert theft crimes lawyer in Whittier, CA, will hear your side of the story, negotiate with the prosecution, and fight for charges to be dismissed whenever possible.
Theft Lawyer Defensive Strategies
As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy needs to be tailored to the specific details, circumstances, and allegations. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in Whittier, 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. Your mindset is key to this defense. Unintentionally taking another person's goods does not qualify as theft, generally. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.
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 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 consist of: 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 (joyriding is a good example of this: it comes into play when a person took property away from its owner, but planned to return it).
Key point: 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 disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.
Using This Defense:
- Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
- Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
- Fraud / False Pretenses: Can apply when the defendant didn't know that what they were saying was false
- Receiving Stolen Property: Challenges knowledge that property was stolen
Illegal Search & Seizure in Theft/Burglary Cases
The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the California Constitution protect individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures. In theft and burglary cases, the Whittier, CA, police department will gather evidence through searches. If the authorities broke the law, the evidence can be thrown out and the state may need to drop charges.
Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause leading to an invalid search at the time of the arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without appropriate legal authority; and searches that exceeded the scope of a legally obtained warrant. In Whittier, CA, your defense attorney can file a motion to throw out any evidence the prosecution acquired through improper means — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.
If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. Even partial suppression — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can be the difference between a conviction and acquittal. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Whittier, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft cases.
Suppression Scenarios:
- Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
- 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 Whittier, 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, ambiguous surveillance footage, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — without a strong defensive strategy, you're gambling with your freedom.
One of the ways that innocent people are commonly accused in Whittier, CA is by eyewitnesses mistaking them for the offender. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — 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 Whittier, CA, court.
Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: showing that the defendant was elsewhere at the time of the crime; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; exposing bias or motive on the part the accuser; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and challenging inconsistencies between witness statements made at different points in time.
If you are falsely accused: Do not confront witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without your theft defense lawyer present. You might make a mistake, or the police might misinterpret something you say. Whatever your circumstances, if you're facing theft charges, call our lawyers now for help.
Lack of Knowledge — For some charges, the prosecution must prove you were aware that the property was stolen. We will challenge whether or not you had this knowledge — it's common for people to make purchases without being aware of how the seller got the item.
Consent / Permission — Theft requires that property be taken without the owner's consent. In cases where the alleged offender did take the object or enter the property, but had the right to do so, this can be a highly effective defense.
Constitutional Violations — 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.
Sentencing Alternatives — In many cases with first-time offenders, California offers diversion programs that can protect you from a conviction. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.
Arguing 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, certain individuals with theft convictions can ask for their pleas to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. The following criteria typically apply: successfully completed all terms of probation, such as paying fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — following recent changes in the law — in many cases, must not have spent time in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).
If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. 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.
Here are some of the advantages of getting your theft conviction expunged: Of note, an expunged conviction generally does not need to be disclosed on private employment applications under state law. 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 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 full sealing, to be able to legally own a gun again, or clearing a prior strike, you will need a different method of expungement. 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: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
- SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
- Limitations: Still restricted from owning guns, and the police can still review these records
Common Theft Crimes Questions in Whittier, CA
What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Whittier, California?
How much was allegedly stolen determines the specific theft charge. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. 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. Your theft crimes lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to defend you against either theft charge.
Can a theft charge be expunged from my record in California?
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. Our firm offers full expungement services.
What happens if I'm charged with shoplifting for the first time in Whittier, CA?
First-time shoplifting charges in California are typically misdemeanors under Proposition 47 (for amounts under $950). Many first-time offenders are eligible for diversion programs that can result in a dismissal upon completing community service or a theft prevention course. Working with a criminal defense lawyer can make a major difference and help you with avoiding a conviction and protecting your record.
I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?
In many cases, being unaware of stolen property's origins can make for a strong defense. If you sincerely weren't aware and didn't have a reason to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. This is a strategy we frequently lean on in receiving stolen property cases. That said, circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can be used against you, which is why an attorney is essential.
How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Whittier, CA?
Extremely. 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. Call one of our attorneys immediately 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?
You can avoid jail in many cases, actually. Whittier, CA courts have sentencing alternatives that will give you an alternative to incarceration, particularly for misdemeanors and first-time offenders. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. The specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Contact our firm to understand what options are available to you.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Unfortunately, yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether you actually took anything doesn't matter — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. This is why intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is central to burglary defense.
Accused of Theft in Whittier, CA? Contact Us to Defend Your Freedom.
Without a theft crimes lawyer, it's easy to make mistakes that put you at a disadvantage. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is equipped to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.
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