Theft, robbery, and burglary charges are often associated with taking someone else’s property unlawfully. However, each charge covers a different criminal act. For example:
- Theft deals with taking someone’s property without their consent
- Robbery involves taking someone’s property using threats or force
- Burglary involves entering a building or a vehicle to commit theft or another felony
You can learn more about each of these charges with our team at the Simmrin Law Group. We’re prepared to help you understand theft, robbery, and burglary when you call our team at (310) 997-4688.
Comparing Theft and Robbery
According to the court system in California, theft occurs if someone takes another person’s property. However, theft does not usually involve direct contact. There are two primary kinds of theft in California:
- Petty theft, which covers acts of theft involving less than $950 AND
- Grand theft, which covers acts of theft involving more than $950
Individuals in California can also face grand theft auto charges. Grand theft auto charges only apply if someone takes another person’s motor vehicle.
The court defines robbery differently. Individuals can face charges for robbery if they are accused of:
- Taking the property of someone else
- Against the property owner’s will
- Through the use of force or fear
The use of force or fear is what distinguishes robbery from other acts of theft. As with theft, there are two primary kinds of robbery in California. These kinds of robbery include first-degree robbery. First-degree robbery occurs if someone robs another person:
- After the person uses an ATM OR
- While the person is in an inhabited structure OR
- While the person is in a motor vehicle
You can reach out to the Simmrin Law Group’s theft crime lawyers in Los Angeles if you have questions about theft or robbery. Call (310) 997-4688 so you can get more information about these charges.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 928-9347
Comparing Theft and Robbery to Burglary
The court in California treats burglary – unlike theft and robbery – as a property crime. Individuals should only face robbery charges if they:
- Enter a building, room, or locked vehicle WHILE
- Planning to commit petty theft or a felony
As with theft and robbery, there are several “types” of burglary in the state of California. Individuals face legal charges for:
Residential Burglary
A residential burglary occurs if someone enters a home, residence, or hotel room while planning to commit petty theft or a felony. Residential burglary is also called first-degree burglary here in Los Angeles.
Commercial Burglary
Other individuals face charges for commercial – or second-degree – burglary. This kind of burglary involves entering a business outside of normal business hours. Individuals should only face this charge if they intend to commit a felony or petty theft.
Differences in Penalties for Theft, Robbery, and Burglary
Theft, burglary, and robbery are all serious charges here in California. While there are many differences between these charges, they are penalized in much the same way. Any of these charges could end up leading to:
- High court fines
- Time in jail or prison
- Time on probation
Generally, individuals face harsher penalties for burglary or robbery. However, a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles can help you handle any of these accusations.
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Defenses Available in Theft, Robbery, and Burglary Cases
Here at the Simmrin Law Group, we understand the differences associated with theft, robbery, and burglary charges. Our team focuses on providing you with a personalized defense based on the charges you are facing. We can work to show that:
- You had permission to take certain items
- You did not use force or fear against another person
- You did not plan to commit a felony or petty theft
Begin working with members of our team if you are facing a theft or property crime charge here in Los Angeles. Allow us to support you in court and to build a strong defense for you. Focus on resolving your charges by contacting us now.
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Call the Simmrin Law Group for Help Handling Theft, Robbery, and Burglary Charges
There are many differences between theft, robbery, and burglary in California. Dig deeper into these variations by contacting the Simmrin Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles. You can easily contact us if you call (310) 997-4688 or fill out our online contact form. Take control of your defense today by contacting us to get a free consultation.
Call or text (310) 928-9347 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form