Theft, burglary, and arson are all classified as property crimes. A criminal court case is sure to follow if you have been charged with one of these crimes, but you do not have to fight these charges alone. To minimize the consequences of that case, get in touch with a Costa Mesa property crimes lawyer from Simmrin Law Group.
What Is a Property Crime?
A property crime can be charged when someone has committed an act that results in the theft, vandalism, or destruction of another person’s property. These crimes do not require offenders to have caused any physical harm to their victims. However, threats of violence or actual violence can result in more substantial charges being applied.
A number of offenses can be deemed “property crimes.” While some are classified as misdemeanors, others can be charged as felonies. Sometimes, a property crime will not even hold unless the offender successfully steals money or property. In other cases, something as simple as unlawfully entering someone’s property can result in property crime charges.
Being convicted of a property crime can result in significant difficulties, as the courts hold the right to levy various penalties against convicted offenders. Work with a property crimes lawyer in Costa Mesa today to reduce the chances of severe penalties.
Common Property Crimes
Understanding the difference between property crimes can help you know the crime you have been charged with. In addition, after comparing your circumstances to the other property crimes, you may gain perspective on the details of your case.
Theft
Unlawfully taking or controlling someone’s property is a crime classified as theft. Theft can take several different forms. Some forms of theft include:
- Burglary
- Larceny
- Retail theft
- Automobile theft
- Identity theft
Theft charges can be levied against anyone suspected of committing the crime. Though, the charges will not hold unless the suspect knowingly:
- Controlled another person’s property without their knowledge;
- Obtained another person’s property through deceptive means;
- Took someone’s property after making threats or;
- Acquired stolen property while knowing that the property in question was stolen;
In California, the severity of theft charges may depend on the property’s value or stolen money. The crime could be considered petty theft if the value is lower than $951. Individuals suspected of stealing more valuable property are at risk of grand theft charges.
Grand Theft
Grand theft can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The context of the crime will influence which charge is permitted, as will the prosecutor’s discretion. Fortunately, a Costa Mesa property crimes lawyer can help you determine whether your felony offense can be downgraded to a misdemeanor.
Trespassing
Being present on someone else’s property unlawfully can result in criminal trespassing charges. For trespassing to be prosecuted, offenders must:
- Intentionally enter or remain on private property;
- Not own the property they entered, and;
- Not have privileges to be on the property;
A common form of trespassing that few consider a crime is the unlawful inhabitation of another person’s vehicle without their permission. While the offender’s intent often dictates whether a crime will be charged, the car owner has the right to alert authorities if these events happen.
Specific laws also specify what actions are allowed on someone else’s property. Therefore, a legal defense is likely necessary if you are accused of committing any of these actions. A Costa Mesa property crimes lawyer can help you build an appropriate legal defense.
Vandalism
To destroy or damage personal property in ways that deface it is a crime known as vandalism. The damage does not need to be extensive for vandalism to be prosecuted. For example, applying unwanted bumper stickers to another person’s vehicle is a minor, prosecutable offense.
A vandalism charge can only be pressed if there is reasonable suspicion that you intentionally caused damage to someone else’s property. After that, such charges can be levied as a misdemeanor or felony. The level of damage caused will dictate which level of offense is applied.
Although this crime may seem insignificant to many, the consequences are genuine. Work with a Costa Mesa property crimes lawyer to ensure that your defense is well organized.
Arson
Any fire can cause catastrophic damage to people, property, and wildlife. Most fires are not the result of a crime. Though, people who set fires intentionally have committed arson.
There are two types of arson charges:
- Reckless burning – When a fire is set due to a person’s mental illness or desire to see burning things as a means of seeking excitement.
- Malicious arson – When a fire is set to harm others, destroy property, or commit insurance fraud.
Arson charges can lead to years of prison time without a proper legal defense. If you have been charged, do not hesitate to hire a Costa Mesa property crimes attorney to participate in your defense.
How to Defend Yourself Against a Property Crime Charge
There are several ways to defend yourself against property crime charges. For example, many offenders can prove that they committed the crime because an emergency made it necessary. In other cases, they demonstrate that they made a mistake or were coerced to commit the crime.
The best defense for your case depends on what crime you are accused of and the circumstances of the incident in question. Without a property crimes attorney in Costa Mesa, you will be left to determine which defense fits your case on your own. This may end in a desirable result, although the chances are slim.
We Will Defend Your Freedom
Anyone facing property crime charges should want to avoid the maximum sentence. The best way to achieve this is to hire a Costa Mesa property crimes lawyer to represent you in your case. Who you choose is essential, so consider hiring Simmrin Law Group.
Our lawyers are experienced in criminal defense cases, including property crime cases. You can learn more about our legal team by exploring our website. Then, when ready, use the contact form on this page to get in touch with a representative.