Glendale Property Crime Lawyers
Also Representing the Accused in Pasadena, Burbank & North Hollywood, CA
Property crimes encompass a range of illegal activities that involve the theft or destruction of someone else’s property without their consent. Unlike violent crimes, property crimes generally do not include physical harm to another person, although violence may occur in the commission of some property crimes.
California property crimes are taken seriously and can carry significant penalties, including fines, restitution, and imprisonment. Penalties depend on the circumstances of your case, including your prior criminal history, if any. Charges can be filed as infractions, misdemeanors, or even felonies.
If you are being investigated or arrested for a property crime, swift action in retaining a criminal defense lawyer can often mean the difference between a successful or disappointing verdict. Weiss and Stepanian LLP is dedicated to aggressive, intelligent, and compassionate representation seeking favorable results. We respond promptly to your calls and messages.
Contact a Glendale property crime attorney via our online email form or at (818) 619-3337. Initial consultations are free, and we are here to help.
California Property Crimes
Many offenses fall under the category of property crimes in California.
These can include but are not limited to:
- Burglary: Illegally entering a building intending to commit theft or any felony.
- Theft/larceny: Unlawfully taking someone else’s property to deprive them of it permanently. This category can be further divided into petty theft (involving property worth $950 or less) and grand theft (involving property worth more than $950).
- Robbery: Taking property from someone else’s immediate possession or presence without their consent.
- Auto theft: The theft of a vehicle. This is often prosecuted under grand theft auto.
- Shoplifting: Stealing goods from a store during regular business hours falls under petty theft if the value is under $950.
- Vandalism: Maliciously damaging, destroying, or defacing property belonging to someone else.
- Arson: Willfully and maliciously setting fire to or burning any structure, forest land, or property.
- Burglary of a safe or vault: Breaking into a safe or vault using explosives or other means to commit theft.
- Receiving stolen property: Knowingly buying, receiving, concealing, or selling any property that has been stolen or obtained in any manner constituting theft.
Why Choose Weiss and Stepanian LLP?
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Personalized Strategies and ResultsWe craft customized legal strategies tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.
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Free ConsultationsWe offer a free initial consultation, providing individuals with the opportunity to discuss their legal concerns and explore their options with no obligation.
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Aggressive AdvocacyOur approach is characterized by proactive and aggressive representation, advocating for our client's best interests within and beyond the courtroom.
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Client Centered ApproachWe are always on our clients' side, dedicated to protecting their rights and interests with unwavering commitment.
Burglary & Theft as Property Crimes in California
Penal Code §459 defines burglary as entering a building intending to commit theft or a felony. Different degrees of burglary exist, directly impacting the punishment and the consequences of a conviction.
The punishment for burglary can be significant. It can be considered a serious felony, subjecting you to California’s Three Strikes laws. Sentences can range from probation to state prison for up to six years.
Theft is the most common property crime, from petty to grand theft. Three factors generally affect how a theft case is filed. First is the value of the goods taken. The second is based on when the intent to commit the offense was formed. Third, the prosecution looks at your prior criminal history.
How Weiss & Stepanian LLP Can Help
In theft or burglary offenses, it is necessary to carefully review the police report(s) and ensure that the corresponding charge is in the appropriate degree. The degree of crime you are charged with often determines how you may be sentenced.
Much can be done in property crime defense to alter the trajectory of the case in your favor. Witnesses need to be interviewed, motions can be presented to the court, and your police reports must be analyzed to potentially mitigate the charges. We do everything possible to set you up for a positive result.
At Weiss and Stepanian LLP, our team is highly experienced in addressing all aspects of criminal charges with a defense plan designed to help you reach the best possible outcome.
Find out more about your case and options in a free evaluation with a Glendale property crimes lawyer by contacting us at (818) 619-3337.
