Property crimes in California include a wide set of criminal activity ranging from shoplifting and vandalism to theft and insurance fraud. Regardless of the specific offense, you need an experienced Santa Barbara criminal defense lawyer if you are facing charges for property crimes.
Simmrin Law Group has over 20 years of legal experience and has helped thousands of clients navigate troubles in the criminal justice system. We have a reputation as passionate advocates for justice and will use every skill and piece of knowledge we have to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.
Contact our offices today to schedule a case consultation with a Santa Barbara property crimes lawyer.
Why You Need a Property Crimes Lawyer
Many of our clients have never been arrested and don’t know what to expect in California property crimes cases. No matter what kind of criminal charge you are facing, you need an accomplished defense attorney on your side.
A lawyer can defend your right to a fair trial and fight for a case dismissal or charge reduction. We are unafraid to take cases to trial and have substantial experience arguing cases in front of juries.
Our goal is to preserve your freedom to the greatest extent possible and make sure the state does not overreach in its investigations. Many property crimes are serious offenses, but an attorney from Simmrin Law Group can effectively meet the prosecution’s argument.
For a free legal consultation with a property crimes lawyer serving Santa Barbara, call (310) 896-2723
Examples of Property Crimes in Santa Barbara
“Property crimes” is a generic term referring to criminal acts that involve the unlawful taking or destruction of someone’s property or possessions. Property crimes may not involve direct violence, but the owner of the property still suffers harm and losses.
Common examples of property crimes in Santa Barbara that we manage include:
- Theft. Theft is the unlawful taking of another person’s property with the intent to deprive them. California defines grand theft as theft of property worth more than $950 and petty theft as theft of property valued at less than $950.
- Burglary. Burglary involves entering property without permission with the intent to commit a crime. The crime does not actually have to occur to receive a burglary conviction.
- Trespassing. Criminal trespassing is the act of entering residential or commercial property without the owner’s permission. Trespassing does not require the intention of committing a crime.
- Vandalism. Destroying or defacing property without permission is vandalism, which includes behaviors like graffiti, destroying mailboxes, damaging vehicles, and defacing public property.
- Shoplifting. CPC 458.5 defines shoplifting as entering a commercial business with the intention to unlawfully take property valued at less than $950. Theft does not have to be successful to receive a shoplifting charge.
- Receiving stolen property. Buying, selling, or receiving items known to be stolen is a criminal offense that can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the value of the property.
- Grand theft auto. Auto theft is the taking of a motor vehicle and has specific punishments that are separate from other types of theft.
- Arson. Arson is a felony offense that involves setting fire to a property, whether done maliciously to deprive the owner or for fraudulent ends, such as insurance fraud.
Individuals can commit several property crimes in the commission of a single act, like trespassing and burglary. A Santa Barbara property crimes lawyer can review your case and defend you against any charges stemming from alleged property crimes violations.
Santa Barbara Property Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
Penalties for Property Crimes in Santa Barbara
The penalties for property crimes vary significantly depending on the nature and severity of the crime. Shoplifting, for example, is usually charged as a misdemeanor and carries up to six months in prison. Arson, on the other hand, is a serious felony that can carry several years in prison, especially if it causes great bodily injury or death.
Criminal penalties can be enhanced if the offender also committed a violent crime in the commission of the act, such as assault, battery, robbery, or murder. Other aggravating factors include the following:
- Causing bodily injury or death
- Defendant’s prior criminal history
- Victim’s identity (e.g., age, veteran, etc.)
- Using a weapon when committing the crime
- Type of property involved (e.g., vehicles, firearms, etc.)
- Extent of planning and sophistication of methods used
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Defenses Against Property Crime Charges
One of the most common defenses against property crime charges is that the defendant lacked the appropriate intent. Many property crimes, such as theft or trespassing, require a specific intent to commit a crime. For instance, an individual could defend against a trespassing charge by arguing they didn’t know they were entering private property.
Alternatively, an attorney could argue that the defendant interfered with some property out of necessity to prevent harm, like breaking a window to stop a fire. Every case is different, and your attorney will develop a strategy based on the material facts and likelihood of conviction.
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Contact a Property Crimes Lawyer in Santa Barbara
Even a conviction for a minor property crime can carry unwanted consequences, not to mention the severe penalties for serious property crimes. If you are currently facing a property crime conviction, Simmrin Law Group can be your legal advocate. We have successfully overseen over 100 jury trials and are confident in our ability to protect your freedoms and privileges.
Send us a message today or reach out by phone to speak to a property crimes lawyer in Santa Barbara. Our communication lines are open 24/7, so feel free to contact us whenever it is convenient for you.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form