The difference between burglary vs robbery is that burglary involves unlawful entry to commit a crime, while robbery requires taking property through force or threats. Understanding what is the difference between theft, robbery, and burglary is essential, as each charge involves distinct criminal actions and consequences.
With the legal support of a Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer, you can learn more about each of these charges. When you call our team for help, we are prepared to help you understand theft, robbery, and burglary.
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: This charge is for acts of theft involving less than $950.
- Grand theft: This involves 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 someone else’s property against the property owner’s will through force or fear. The use of force or fear is the factor that distinguishes robbery from other acts of theft. You can learn more about the element of “fear” in robbery cases with California Penal Code Section 212.
As with theft, there are two primary kinds of robbery in California. These kinds of robbery include first-degree robbery, which occurs if someone robs another person in any of these situations:
- After the victim uses an ATM
- While the victim is in an inhabited structure (such as a business or home)
- While the victim is in a motor vehicle
If you have questions about theft or robbery, you can contact the Simmrin Law Group’s Los Angeles theft crime lawyers.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Comparing Theft and Robbery to Burglary
Unlike theft and robbery, the courts in California treat burglary 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.
Residential Burglary
A residential burglary occurs if someone enters a home, residence, or hotel room while planning to commit petty theft or a felony. In Los Angeles, it is also called first-degree burglary.
Commercial Burglary
Other individuals face charges for commercial burglary, also known as second-degree burglary. This charge 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 in California. While there are many differences in the conditions that define these offenses, 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 vs robbery. However, a Los Angeles theft crime lawyer from the Simmrin Law Group can help you build a case to fight against any of these accusations.
Consequences of a Guilty Verdict
Although you should be prepared to face incarceration and fines if you are convicted of robbery, theft, or burglary, there are other penalties that will be handed down if you are convicted. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you could experience a wide array of both criminal penalties and collateral consequences that could apply.
License Suspension
In some instances, if you are found guilty of robbery, burglary, or theft, you may also be at risk for the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. The amount of time your license can be suspended can vary widely, depending on the specific circumstances of your case.
However, you are more likely to face license suspension if you are also accused of speeding, reckless driving, or driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol in conjunction with your theft or robbery charges.
Other Responsibilities and Restrictions
Other types of restrictions and responsibilities you can expect to face if you are convicted of theft, burglary, or robbery offenses include:
- Paying restitution to any victims
- Completing community service hours
- Attending mental health counseling
- Completing an alcohol or drug treatment program
- Attending group therapy
- Completion of an anger management program
- Revocation of your firearm rights
- Loss of child custody or visitation rights
- Damage to your personal or professional reputation
- Disqualification for federal student aid
- Denial of job opportunities
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Defenses Available in Theft, Robbery, and Burglary Cases
Here at the Simmrin Law Group, we understand the defense strategies that can best benefit our clients against theft, robbery, and burglary accusations. 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.
It is never too soon to begin working with our professional and experienced legal team if you are facing a theft or property crime charge in the Los Angeles area. Our Los Angeles petty theft lawyers will support you in court and build a strong defense for you. You can take steps to resolve your charges by contacting us now.
Call the Simmrin Law Group for Help Handling Theft, Robbery, and Burglary Charges
When you are charged with theft, robbery, or burglary in California, you need help understanding the differences and how to defend yourself in court. Contact the Simmrin Law Group’s criminal defense lawyers in Los Angeles to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
We offer free initial case evaluations with no obligation and no risk. Take control of your defense and contact us to schedule a consultation today.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form