Here at the Simmrin Law Group, we understand the stress associated with a property crimes charge. You can feel overwhelmed and confused if you are accused of trespassing, burglary, vandalism, or arson in Anaheim. Worse yet, the court can fine and incarcerate you if you are found guilty.
Getting a skilled property crimes lawyer in Anaheim on your side can boost your odds for beating criminal charges. You can feel confident about your defense by working with a legal professional right here in Anaheim.
Arson as a Property Crime in Anaheim
Types of Arson
You are likely familiar with the act of arson, or starting a fire intentionally. California handles arson seriously in the courtroom, as the state suffers from wildfires. You could be charged with reckless burning for starting a fire due to a mental illness or for the thrill of it.
Individuals who light fires with ill-intent commit malicious arson. Malicious arson specifically involves setting fire to something:
- To damage or destroy property
- To hurt or kill a person
- To defraud an insurance company
Penalties for Arson
The court can use these penalties to punish acts of arson in Anaheim:
- Misdemeanor Reckless Burning: $1,000 in fines and 6 months of jail time
- Malicious Arson: Up to $50,000 in fines and 9 years in prison
You can improve your odds of beating an arson charge by working with a property crimes lawyer. The sooner you get legal representation on your side, the stronger your case will be when your day in court arrives.
Burglary as a Property Crime in Anaheim
Types of Burglary
Burglary in Anaheim involves entering a room, building, or locked vehicle while you plan to carry out petty theft or a felony. You can be charged with first degree burglary if you enter someone’s private home. This is also called residential burglary.
Individuals who enter a place of business can face second degree burglary charges. The court also refers to second degree burglary as commercial burglary.
Penalties for Burglary
Charges of burglary can be punished with:
- First Degree Burglary / Residential Burglary: $10,000 in fines and 6 years in prison
- Second Degree Burglary / Commercial Burglary: Fines and up to 3 years in prison
Trespassing as a Property Crime in Anaheim
Types of Trespassing
Anaheim’s court system defines basic trespassing as entering another individual’s property without their permission. Basic trespassing is generally charged as an infraction.
You could also face charges for criminal trespassing. Criminal trespassing occurs if you enter property or land without permission and:
- Intend to interfere with or damage it
- Cause interference or damage to it
Finally, the courts use the charge of aggravated trespassing to punish individuals who make a threat against other people and then enter:
- The person’s home
- The person’s workplace
- A building next to the person’s home
Penalties for Trespassing
Each type of trespassing comes with different legal penalties after a conviction, including:
- Basic Trespassing: Fines of $75 – $100
- Criminal Trespassing: Fines of $1,000 and up to 6 months of jail time
- Aggravated Trespassing: Fines of $1,000 and up to 3 years of jail time
Fighting trespassing charges on your own can get out of hand quickly. You can take control of your courtroom battle by contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Anaheim. A lawyer with experience in the courtroom can provide you with the help and advice you need.
Vandalism as a Property Crime in Anaheim
Types of Vandalism
Vandalism is sometimes overlooked in comparison to other property crimes. Entering another person’s property to damage, deface, or destroy something may not seem as serious as arson or burglary. However, Anaheim takes vandalism charges seriously.
You can be charged with an infraction if you commit less than $250 in damages as a first-time offense. Misdemeanor vandalism charges are used for multiple acts of vandalism and for damages from $250 – $400.
The court can even charge you with a felony for vandalism if you cause more than $400 in damages.
Penalties for Trespassing
Penalties for a conviction for vandalism can include:
- Vandalism Infraction: Fines of $1,000 and community service time
- Vandalism Misdemeanor: Fines of up to $3,000 and 1 year in jail
- Vandalism Felony: Fines of up to $1,000 and 3 years of prison time
Let a Property Crimes Lawyer in Anaheim Take on Your Case
Winning in the Anaheim court system requires skill and experience. The Simmrin Law Group offers you the expert legal care you need if you’re facing property crime charges. You can count on our property crime lawyers in Anaheim to build your defense. Get started right away by calling us at (310) 997-4688 or filling out our online contact form.
Get to work on your case immediately with one of our FREE consultations.