California defines a property crime as an act that damages the property of another individual or organization. Some property crimes are viewed as infractions, while others are charged as misdemeanors and felonies. A property crime conviction can lead to high fines and time spent in jail or prison.
Trying to fight a property crimes charge on your own can be frustrating and can end in failure. You can get help right here in Palmdale from the skilled property crime lawyers of the Simmrin Law Group. We understand the ins and outs of California’s court system and can help you build a case for any charge.
Stand Up to Property Crime Charges
Palmdale treats property crime charges with extreme severity. Several acts fall under the property crime umbrella, including:
- Arson
- Burglary
- Vandalism
- Trespassing
Each property crime involves damaging or taking something from another individual. You might face misdemeanor or felony charges for a property crime. If you are convicted, you’ll have to deal with fines and additional repercussions.
You can fight against a property crime charge by working with a Palmdale criminal defense lawyer. The faster you begin building your defense, the higher your odds of courtroom success will be.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Palmdale, call (310) 896-2723
Arson Charges in Palmdale
Arson is the act of intentionally setting a fire. You could end up facing one of two different charges if you are accused of arson in California:
Reckless Burning
You may be charged with reckless burning if you set a fire for the thrill of it or due to mental illness. You can also face reckless burning charges if you lit a fire for any reason that did not involve malice. Reckless burning can be seen as a felony or a misdemeanor by the court system.
Malicious Arson
Individuals can face malicious arson charges if they set a fire maliciously. This means that the fire was set to defraud someone, to damage something, or to either hurt or kill another person. The court system always treats malicious arson as a felony.
Both malicious arson and reckless burning charges can have serious impacts on your life. Find out how you can protect yourself in court by working with a Palmdale property crime lawyer.
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Burglary as a Property Crime
Individuals are guilty of burglary if they enter a locked vehicle, building, or room with the intent of committing a felony or petty theft. You do not have to break a lock to be charged with burglary, nor do you even have to steal anything. Palmdale characterizes burglary in two ways:
Commercial Burglary
Commercial burglary is also called second degree burglary. It involves entering a business establishment in order to commit a crime or steal something. Commercial burglary can be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the situation.
Residential Burglary
You can be charged with residential burglary if you entered a home instead of a business. The court system also uses the term first degree burglary to describe residential burglary. The act of residential burglary is always treated as a felony by the court system.
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California’s Vandalism Charges
In Palmdale, you can be charged with vandalism if you damage, deface, or destroy someone else’s property. Vandalism can be charged as an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony, depending on how much damage you did.
Your charges will also depend on your previous criminal record. Additionally, you may face harsher penalties for vandalism if you used caustic chemicals, were committing a hate crime, or if you acted against a place of worship.
While vandalism charges may not seem severe compared to other property crimes, you can still end up spending years in prison if you are convicted. Make sure you’re properly defended by contacting a property crimes lawyer.
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Charges of Trespassing in Palmdale
Trespassing occurs when you fail to get someone’s permission before entering their land or property. The court system handles trespassing with three different charges, depending on your circumstances:
Trespass
You could be charged with trespass if you merely enter someone’s property without permission. This is treated as an infraction by the court system. You usually have to pay as small fine if you are convicted of trespass.
Criminal Trespass
A criminal trespass charge applies if you enter someone’s property while intending to interfere or damage something. Criminal trespass is considered a misdemeanor by the court system, and it can lead to $1,000 in fines and jail time.
Aggravated Trespass
Aggravated trespass occurs when you enter someone’s property after threatening them. The court system views aggravated trespass seriously and treats this charge as a felony. You could end up spending 3 years in jail if you are convicted of aggravated trespass.
Focus on Your Defense with a Palmdale Property Crimes Lawyer
Your life could be impacted for years to come if you are convicted of a property crime in Palmdale. Start building your case right away with a local law firm you can trust. The Simmrin Law Group’s property crime lawyers can help you with every aspect of your defense. Contact us for a FREE consultation about your unique situation. We’re available anytime. Fill out the form on the right or call us at (310) 997-4688 so we can start focusing on your case.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form