If you have been charged with a property crime, even one you think is minor, consult with an experienced Alhambra property crimes lawyer right away. Even “minor” convictions have serious consequences that can affect your future, your freedom, and your finances. Protect yourself and your interests by trusting your case to a skilled attorney from the Simmrin Law Group.
Property Crimes Explained
“Property Crimes” represents a category of criminal behavior, including illegal acts involving theft or destruction of another’s property. Property crimes can be subdivided into two main categories: theft and non-theft.
For a free legal consultation with a property crimes lawyer serving Alhambra, call (310) 928-9347
Theft Crimes
According to California Penal Code 484, a person who commits theft, or larceny, intentionally steals someone else’s property or money whether by force, fraud, or other illegal means. A person who is paid for labor, but does not fulfill those required services, can also be charged with theft.
Petty theft and grand theft serve as umbrella terms identifying distinctions in the value of the property stolen. The list of potential theft crimes is extensive, but there are theft-related property crimes most commonly.
Petty Theft
Petty theft is a term covering a range of theft crimes in which the value of the stolen property is minor. For example, if someone shoplifts an article of clothing or makeup product from a retail store, they would likely face petty theft charges.
For these crimes, a person can face punishments of fines up to $1000, incarceration for up to six months, or both penalties. If the property stolen is worth less than $50, the charge and fine may be reduced.
Grand Theft
Grand theft refers to acts of theft in which the value of the stolen property is high. The property may be stolen through violence or through white-collar crimes, such as embezzlement or fraud.
Sentencing for grand theft generally demands a year or more of incarceration. Other factors, such as the perpetrator’s criminal history, can affect the specifics of the penalty.
Robbery
Robbery occurs when a person uses force or threats of force to cause fear and ultimately take possession of another’s property. Pointing a gun at a store cashier while demanding cash from the register is an example of robbery.
Burglary or Breaking and Entering
A person can receive a burglary charge if they entered a premises with the purpose of committing theft. The charge does not require the use of force or violence or the destruction of property, only that the perpetrator accessed someone else’s property intending to steal.
Auto Theft: Grand Theft Auto and Carjacking
Grand theft auto occurs when a person breaks into an unoccupied car and steals it.
Carjacking is seen as more serious than grand theft auto as the carjacker uses force and fear to steal an occupied vehicle directly from its driver.
Whether you have committed an act of grand theft or petty theft, you face the possibility of serious consequences. It is in your best interest to consult with a property crimes lawyer in Alhambra right away so you can begin building an effective defense.
Alhambra Property Crimes Lawyer Near Me (310) 928-9347
Non-Theft Property Crimes
Non-theft property crimes involve damaging or destroying, rather than stealing, another’s property.
Vandalism
A person who defaces, destroys, or damages someone else’s property can receive a charge of vandalism. Punishment can include jail time and/or fines, depending on the cost and extent of the damage. Repeat offenders will likely see enhanced charges.
Arson
A person who intentionally sets fire to another person’s property has committed an act of arson. Under California law, those properties also include forest land. Arson is often used in insurance fraud, to cover up a crime, or in acts of domestic violence. Under any circumstances, arson is a serious crime that can bring significant penalties of multiple years in prison. The penalties increase further if the person is charged with aggravated arson.
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Why You Need an Alhambra Property Crimes Attorney
You need an experienced property crimes defense lawyer to investigate your situation and build a strong case. Your lawyer will gather important evidence, prepare and submit legal documents, and represent you at all court proceedings. Most importantly, your property crimes attorney in Alhambra will work to minimize or dismiss the charges against you.
Aggravating and Mitigating Factors
Whether you face felony or misdemeanor charges largely depends on the value of the property you damaged or stole, and the extent of the injuries and trauma the victims experienced.
However, there are aggravating or mitigating factors that can also affect the outcome of your case. Aggravating factors increase your culpability and the seriousness of your punishment. Mitigating factors do the opposite, serving to reduce your culpability and punishment. Aggravating or mitigating factors can include but are not limited to
- The level of force or fear you used to commit the act
- Whether someone was injured or killed, even accidentally, in the commission of the act
- Your status as a first-time or repeat offenders
- Whether you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- The age and vulnerability of the victim
- Whether you were motivated by hate or prejudice
- Your mental or physical health
- Your role in the crime
A skilled Alhambra property crimes lawyer will take all relevant factors into consideration when defending you, working to emphasize mitigating factors to reduce your charges and subsequent penalty or argue against aggravating factors cited by the prosecution to increase the charges.
Three Strikes Law
California operates under the Three Strikes Law. If you are facing property crime charges and have prior convictions, your conviction will likely bring an even more severe sentence, making it even more essential for you to have a skilled lawyer mounting your defense.
Fair Treatment
If you are facing property crime charges, you need an expert fighting for you and protecting your rights. An Alhambra property crimes lawyer will be present at all trial proceedings, ensuring your fair and just treatment under the law.
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Consult with an Alhambra Property Crimes Lawyer Today
Do not wait any longer to contact an expert Alhambra property crimes attorney from the Simmrin Law Group. Your lawyer will give your case the attention it needs and deserves, protecting your rights, your interests, and your future.
Call or text (310) 928-9347 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form