Vandalism charges in California can impact your life for years to come. If you have been arrested or are being investigated, you may feel overwhelmed and confused.
This is where a Burbank vandalism lawyer can step in to help provide needed support, guidance, and work on a legal defense. Having a lawyer on your side can help with your defense, ensure that all your paperwork is filed correctly, and protect your rights.
At Simmrin Law Group, we’ve defended thousands of clients facing criminal charges, including vandalism charges. A Burbank property crimes lawyer from our team can evaluate your case for free, whether you want to come into our local office in Burbank or get on a phone call. We’re here to help.
How Do I Know if My Vandalism Charge Is a Felony or a Misdemeanor?
In Burbank and in other locations in California, the charge you are facing will depend largely on the type of damage that was done, more specifically, the value of the property that was damaged. Here is what you can generally expect:
- If the damage is less than $400 than typically the charge is considered a misdemeanor
- If the damage is $400 or more, then the charge may typically be a felony.
- In some cases, the charge could be a “wobbler,” which means that it’s up to the discretion of the prosecution what degree of charge a case will fall into.
Potential Penalties for a Misdemeanor
If vandalism is charged as a misdemeanor, the penalties may include:
- Up to one year in county jail.
- Fines, which may increase depending on the extent of damage.
- Restitution to cover the cost of repairs.
- Informal probation.
- Possible community service, such as graffiti removal.
While a misdemeanor is less severe than a felony, it can still result in a criminal record and long-term consequences.
Potential Penalties for a Felony Charge
Felony vandalism carries more serious consequences and may include:
- Formal probation or a state prison sentence.
- Higher fines and increased restitution obligations.
- Additional penalties for repeat offenses or extensive damage.
- A permanent felony record.
A felony conviction can significantly impact your future, including limiting job opportunities, housing options, and other aspects of your personal and professional life. This is why it’s so important to consult with a Burbank criminal defense lawyer who may be able to help!
For a free legal consultation with a vandalism lawyer serving Burbank, call (310) 896-2723
What Are Some Defenses a Lawyer May Use for a Vandalism Charge in Burbank, California?
One of the most impactful things that our vandalism lawyers in Burbank may be able to do for you is build a defense for your case. Your defense against vandalism (charged under CA Penal Code § 594) will likely play one of the most significant roles in the outcome of your case.
With that being said, here are some common defenses in these types of cases that you should be aware of:
Proving the Lack of Malicious Intent
One of the key parts of proving vandalism is malicious intent. And so, if the damage was accidental, it does not meet the legal standard for vandalism. If a lawyer can demonstrate that there was no intent to cause harm, it may weaken the prosecution’s case or lead to a dismissal, depending on the specifics of the case.
Arguing for Mistaken Identity
Many vandalism charges rely on limited evidence, such as surveillance footage or eyewitness accounts. If identification is unclear or unreliable, the charges may not hold up in court, and a lawyer can challenge this evidence on your behalf.
A Defense Around Exaggeration
In many cases, disputes between neighbors, acquaintances, friends, family, or coworkers can sometimes lead to exaggerated or false claims. A careful investigation can uncover inconsistencies in these allegations.
Consent or Ownership Issues
If you had permission to alter the property or there is a dispute over ownership, the prosecution may struggle to prove that a crime occurred.
A lawyer can gather evidence on your behalf, counter the evidence presented against you, and figure out what defense makes the most sense for your case. Without this help, it can be extremely challenging to figure out the legal process on your own.
Burbank Vandalism Lawyer Near Me (310) 896-2723
What Steps Should I Take if I am Being Investigated or Charged for Vandalism in Burbank?
If you have been arrested or are under investigation for vandalism in Burbank, your actions can significantly impact the outcome of your case. For instance:
- Avoid speaking to law enforcement without legal representation.
- Do not discuss the situation with friends, family, co-workers, in person, by phone, text, or through social media.
- Preserve any evidence that may support your defense, including photos, videos, or camera footage.
- Contact a qualified defense attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case and next steps.
Taking these steps can be very helpful in protecting your rights and making things easier with the legal process. An attorney is an essential part of ensuring that you are protected, regardless of whether you have already been arrested or are being investigated.
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Get in Touch With Our Vandalism Lawyers in Burbank Today
A vandalism charge in Burbank can carry serious consequences, whether it is filed as a misdemeanor or a felony. From potential jail time and fines to the lasting impact of a criminal record, these cases should never be taken lightly. If you are facing a vandalism charge, getting experienced legal guidance can make all the difference.
The team at Simmrin Law Group has extensive experience handling criminal defense cases throughout California. We understand how to handle even the most complicated and serious vandalism charges.
Get in touch with our vandalism lawyers in Burbank today for a free consultation when facing a vandalism arrest or investigation. When working with us, you’ve got a friend who knows the law!
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