Vandalism is considered a property crime in Santa Clarita, CA. Individuals accused of vandalism could be charged with an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony. The results of a conviction can include fines and time behind bars as well as a requirement to perform community service.
You can increase your odds of successfully handling a vandalism accusation by working with the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. Speak with our vandalism lawyers in Santa Clarita today so they can begin constructing a strong defense for you.
Go Over the Basics About Vandalism in Santa Clarita
We mentioned that vandalism was considered a property crime. You could face vandalism charges if you are accused of damaging, defacing, or destroying someone else’s property without their permission.
Generally, vandalism charges should only apply if you acted maliciously to damage, deface, or destroy someone else’s property. Accidental damage should not be prosecuted as vandalism in Santa Clarita, for example.
A criminal defense lawyer in Santa Clarita can help if you were accused of vandalizing privately or publicly owned property. Reach out to get professional help as soon as you are arrested.
For a free legal consultation with a lawyer serving Santa Clarita, call (310) 896-2723
Types of Vandalism Charges in California
Vandalism may be prosecuted at different levels of severity depending upon the amount of destruction caused and the number of times an individual engaged in vandalism. This means that you could face charges for a(n):
Infraction
Infraction charges are used if someone causes less than $250 in an act of vandalism. Note that infraction charges are generally only used for first-time or single acts of vandalism.
Misdemeanor
The California court system could charge you with a misdemeanor if you are accused of causing between $250 and $400 of damage through vandalism. Multiple smaller acts of vandalism may also be prosecuted as a misdemeanor.
Felony
Felony vandalism charges are specifically used to prosecute individuals who cause more than $400 of damage. Felony charges represent the most serious charges you can face for vandalism. Make sure you contact a property crimes lawyer in Santa Clarita if you’re accused of any type of vandalism.
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Penalties for Santa Clarita Vandalism Convictions
The court system can hand down harsh penalties if you are convicted of vandalism. Depending upon your situation, you could face:
Fines
- Up to $1,000 for an infraction
- Up to $3,000 for a misdemeanor
- Up to $10,000 for a felony
Incarceration
- Between six months and one year for misdemeanor charges
- Up to one year for felony charges
Additional Penalties
You may also be required to complete court-ordered community service if you are convicted of vandalism. You could be put on probation. The court also reserves the right to suspend your driver’s license for up to two years if you are convicted of a misdemeanor or a felony.
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Defend Yourself from Vandalism Accusations
As you can see, a vandalism conviction can have serious impacts on your life. You can deal with these charges aggressively by contacting the Simmrin Law Group. Our vandalism lawyers are ready to help you handle:
Legal Interviews
Prosecutors and police officers will likely question you about the charges you are facing. You should not answer any questions related to your case until you have help from a criminal defense lawyer. Everything you say in these interviews can later be used against you.
Bail Hearings
You may be allowed to pay bail in order to remain free until your criminal trial. A property crimes lawyer can work to ensure that you get the lowest possible bail payment by handling your bail hearing.
Plea Bargains
In some cases, vandalism charges may be reduced through a plea bargain. This can result in less severe penalties. However, you will still have to plead guilty if you accept a plea bargain, so do not take any of these deals before they have been assessed by a legal professional.
Your Defense
It’s important to build a strong defense as quickly as possible if you are accused of vandalism in Santa Clarita. Your lawyer can assess your needs right away and review the facts of your case. We may be able to show that any damage you caused was accidental. We can also work to block evidence against you, making it more difficult for a prosecutor to secure a conviction.
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Call a Santa Clarita Vandalism Lawyer Today
Take charge if you are accused of vandalism in Santa Clarita. Call (310) 896-2723 or complete our online contact form to reach the professionals at the Simmrin Law Group. Our vandalism lawyers in Santa Clarita can provide you with personalized legal support now.
Complete a FREE case evaluation to begin working on your defense.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form