Have questions about a loitering to commit a crime charge in California? Penal Code 647(h) is a misdemeanor-level offense in California. Individuals convicted of loitering to commit a crime can face fines and even jail time.
The Simmrin Law Group can help you fight back against PC 647(h) charges. Contact us right now for help at (310) 896-2723.
Loitering to Commit a Crime in California
Loitering is defined by the law as staying in one location without a lawful purpose. Loitering to commit a crime involves other factors. Individuals should only face charges under PC 647(h) for prowling, wandering onto, or lingering on someone’s property while planning to commit a crime.
PC 647(h) charges should only apply if an individual initially came to the property with the intent to commit a crime. Individuals should only face charges for loitering if they linger in one place too long. Further, they should only be charged with loitering to commit a crime if they intended to carry out another criminal offense while they were there.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving California, call (310) 896-2723
Lawful Purpose
Individuals are allowed to remain on a property if they have a lawful purpose to be there. There are many possible lawful reasons for someone to be on a property they don’t own. For example, let us say that someone is lingering outside a store. If they are waiting for a family member to come out, they therefore have a lawful reason for their presence.
It is typically up to the police officer(s) at the scene to determine if someone has a lawful purpose for loitering. Police officers can make an arrest if they suspect that someone is planning a criminal act. In this situation, PC 647(h) charges can apply. Contact a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles immediately after your arrest.
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Results of a PC 647(h) Conviction in California
Loitering to commit a crime is a misdemeanor in California. The court system in California treats misdemeanor-level offenses very seriously. Convictions under PC 647(h) can lead to:
- Fines of up to $1,000
- Jail time of up to one year
Charges associated with PC 647(h) accusations that are similar to loitering to commit a crime include failure to disburse and trespassing. These charges can lead to additional penalties and are not all handled the same way in the court system.
The Simmrin Law Group knows what it takes to handle loitering to commit a crime charges. Find out more about how we can help by calling us at (310) 896-2723.
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Defenses for Loitering to Commit a Crime
Let us help you set up a legal defense if you are accused of loitering to commit a crime. A Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer can help you prove that:
You Had a Lawful Purpose for Lingering
There are many lawful reasons to remain on someone’s property in California. If you have a good reason for lingering, you may be able to avoid a PC 647(h) conviction. Speak to a lawyer today.
You Did Not Intend to Commit a Crime
The court may treat loitering as a criminal act even if you were not planning to commit a crime. However, loitering is treated more seriously when associated with other criminal activity. We can work to show that you did not plan to commit a crime while loitering.
You Were Falsely Accused
Not all charges made in California are based on the facts. In some situations, you could find yourself accused of a crime you did not commit. In this situation, we can assess the facts of your situation and determine your best possible defense, starting right now. We’re ready to stand up for you if you are facing false charges.
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Get Help After You’re Charged with Loitering to Commit a Crime in California
Facing charges for loitering to commit a crime in California? Begin working on your defense right now with the team at the Simmrin Law Group. Our criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles can assist with your defense to this offense with a free consultation.
Find out more by calling us at (310) 896-2723 or filling out our online contact form.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form