Property crimes occur frequently in the Burbank area. Every time someone enters another person’s property without permission, they are technically committing trespassing. Despite the commonality of these crimes, they are often punished very harshly by the court system.
You can get help making sure you’re treated fairly in court by contacting a property crimes lawyer in Burbank. The legal professionals at the Simmrin Law Group understand the charges you’re facing and can help you build your defense.
Trespassing as a Property Crime in Burbank
Individuals can face basic trespassing charges if they:
- Enter another person’s property (and)
- With no permission to do so.
Basic trespassing is generally treated as an infraction. You can face far more serious charges if you are accused of criminal trespass, which involves entering someone else’s property with the intent to interfere with it or damage it.
The state of California also has a charge for aggravated trespass. You can be convicted of aggravated trespass if you threaten another person and then, within the next 30 days, enter:
- Their workplace
- Their home
- A building beside their home
The charges for trespassing include:
Basic Trespass:
- Fines: $75 – $100
Criminal Trespass:
- Fines: $1,000
- Jail Time: 6 Months
Aggravated Trespass:
- Fines: $1,000
- Jail Time: 6 Months – 3 Years
You can get help fighting any trespassing charge by contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Burbank. Get the professional advice you need as soon as possible to increase your chances of winning your case.
Criminal Charges and Vandalism
Vandalism occurs any time someone takes the property of another person and:
- Defaces it
- Damages it
- Destroys it
You can be charged with infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies for vandalism. The severity of your charge will depend on how much damage you are accused of doing and whether or not you are a first-time offender. Penalties for vandalism include:
Vandalism Infraction:
- Fines: Up to $1,000
Misdemeanor Vandalism:
- Fines: $1,000 – $3,000
- Jail Time: 6 months – 1 Year
Felony Vandalism:
- Fines: Determined by the Court
- Prison Time: 16 months – 3 Years
You can also have your license suspended and you could be forced to complete community service if charged with vandalism in Burbank.
Burbank’s Charges for Burglary
The state of California defines burglary as entering someone’s property in order to commit a felony or petty theft. You can be charged with first-degree burglary if you enter a residence and second-degree burglary if you enter a business.
A burglary conviction can result in the following charges:
1st Degree Burglary / Residential Burglary:
- Fines: Up to $10,000
- Prison Time: 2 – 6 Years
2nd Degree Burglary / Commercial Burglary:
- Incarceration: 1 – 3 Years
Dealing with any burglary charge on your own can increase the odds that you’ll lose your case. Get help preparing a solid defense by working with a property crimes lawyer located right here in Burbank.
Arson Charges in Burbank
Any individual who purposefully sets a fire can be charged with arson. You might be charged with reckless burning for setting a fire just for the thrill of it or due to mental illness.
You could also face the charge of malicious arson. Malicious arson occurs if someone sets fire to:
- A structure
- A motor vehicle
- Personal property
- Forested land
An individual must intend to destroy someone’s property, hurt or kill another person, or carry out insurance fraud to be charged with malicious arson.
California typically deals very harshly with acts of arson, due to the high risk of wildfires in the state. Penalties generally involve fines and time in jail or prison. There are many enhancements to the charges that can add additional years onto your sentence.
Fight Against Property Crime Charges with Professional Help
Individuals who are accused of property crimes can end up facing serious repercussions if they are convicted. You can improve your odds of winning your case right away by contacting a property crime lawyer in Burbank.
The Simmrin Law Group understands the charges you’re facing. We’ve built a reputation on winning cases like yours. Find out how we can help you today by contacting us for a FREE consultation. We’re here to provide you with the advice and support you need.
Start building your case by calling (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form.