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Theft Lawyer Alhambra, CA. Accusations. Arrests. Criminal charges. It's easy to feel lost when you're up against theft charges. It can seem like there's no way out.

Even when you're up against the toughest battle of your life, don't give up yet. You have a team who will defend your freedom: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our legal team has the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Alhambra, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team protecting your rights, you don't have to worry about how you'll handle things alone anymore.

Connect with an attorney now at (800) 755-5174 or use our contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.

How a Alhambra, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

You should never take theft allegations lightly, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to decipher a complex legal system and potentially set yourself up for the below consequences:

1. Jail Sentence: Alhambra, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
2. Financial Penalties: On top of paying back the value of whatever was stolen, fines can give you a serious financial burden.
3. Loss of Employmnet: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
4. Stained Reputation: Even if you make it past everything else, the reputation as a "criminal" can stick with you.
5. And more.

To maximize your chances of replacing these consequences with freedom, you'll need a Alhambra, CA theft crimes lawyer on your case. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley . Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:

Why You Should Hire Our Alhambra, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

Not every criminal defense firm is created equal. Here's what you get when you call us — and the difference it will make for your case:

• A Team Of Former District Attorneys & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We use that inside knowledge to dismantle the prosecution's strategy.
• Extensive Court Relationships — With over 50 years of combined courtroom experience, we have built up relationships with the Alhambra, CA prosecutors and judges, which we will use when securing plea deals.
• Defenses Built for Trial — Misdemeanor or felony, we build your defense to be trial-ready. This posture often produces better plea negotiations and dismissals — because the prosecution knows we're not bluffing.
• Expungement Services — Even after the fact, we're still here to help. Don't let an arrest or criminal record hold you back — speak with one of our Alhambra, CA, criminal defense attorneys to discuss expungement options.
• Terrific Reputation – well-respected amongst both clients and peers.
• Always Availalbe — Arrests happen at all hours. So do we. If you need a theft crime attorney, you shouldn't need to wait for regular business hours. And with our team, you don't have to.
• Fully Confidential — Attorney-client privilege protects you, whatever you tell us about your case. You can tell us everything, and we will respect your story while crafting your defense.

Theft Charges We Will Fight in Alhambra, CA

Use the links below to jump directly to a full breakdown of the law, consequences, and how we defend it.

Attempted Burglary | Attempted Robbery | Bribery | Burglary (Residential) | Burglary of a Vehicle | Carjacking | Commercial Burglary | Credit Card Fraud | Elder Financial Abuse | Embezzlement | Extortion | Forgery | Fraud / False Pretenses | Grand Theft | Grand Theft Auto | Grand Theft of a Firearm | Health Care Fraud | Home Health Fraud | Home Invasion Burglary | Hospice Fraud | Identity Theft | Insurance Fraud | Joyriding | Looting | Medicare Fraud | Money Laundering | Perjury | Petty Theft | Petty Theft with a Prior | Possession of Stolen Vehicle | Receiving Stolen Property | Robbery | Shoplifting (PC 459.5) | Theft from an Elder | Trespassing | Vandalism | Vehicle Theft | Welfare Fraud | White Collar Crimes

Alhambra, CA, Theft Allegations We Defend Against

With over 50 years of combined legal experience, we have what it takes to protect your rights. Should you need a theft crimes lawyer in Alhambra, CA, don't wait: contact us right away for a free, confidential consultation.

Our lawyers can help you fight all of the following allegations:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

While there are many different theft case types in Alhambra, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. You can face these charges for taking someone's possessions when you weren't allowed to. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: If it was $950 or less, the classification will generally be petty theft, while higher values will normally be grand theft.

Fighting petty theft charges is typically more straightforward, as they are often (but not always) charged as misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. In either case, a skillful theft crimes lawyer can help you minimize penalties.

Here's a breakdown of what distinguishes petty and grand theft:

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

Following the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, shoplifting became its own distinct offense separate from commercial burglary. A person commits shoplifting when they go into an open store in order to steal $950 or less worth of goods.

While it's still technically possible for shoplifting charges to be felonies, this is not as common as when it was considered a form of burglary. Since Proposition 47, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. However, felony charges can still be applied in certain situations, like an organized shoplifting ring. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Alhambra, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and avoid making mistakes that could have major consequences.

Organized retail theft (either a crime ring or repeated instances of shoplifting) is increasingly prosecuted aggressively by Alhambra, CA, prosecutors following recent state legislation.

Shoplifting Potential Penalties:

• Jail Time: Up to 6 months
• Fines: Up to $1,000
• Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
• Other: Probation, banned from store

Defense options are: Theft was unintentional, mistake of fact, entrapment by loss prevention, unlawful search and seizure, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666

Petty theft charges are usually misdemeanors, but not always. Because of Penal Code § 666, a petty theft with a prior can be charged as a felony. This is one of the most common mechanisms used in Alhambra, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.

To charge PC § 666, the Alhambra, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the defendant engaged in petty theft; and (2) the defendant has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Applicable Priors: Previous theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions

Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in Alhambra, CA

We will fight against all sorts of vehicle theft crimes in Alhambra, CA. An example that many people ask about is grand theft auto, but that's actually not a unique charge. Grand theft auto is a smaller part of California's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.

Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if they were only doing to drive it briefly and then bring it back, they're more likely to face charges of joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in Alhambra, CA, because they're likely to be charged as misdemeanors, versus grand theft auto felonies.

One final vehicle theft-related charge that some people underestimate is possession of a stolen vehicle. Similar to receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Just owning or keeping the car or truck is enough for a conviction.

When you work with us, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of each offense type, how to fight against them, and what deals are realistic. Reach out today to start protecting your freedom.

Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)

If you allegedly stole a car, you might expect to face grand theft auto charges. However, grand theft auto does not have its own statute in California — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.

The critical element prosecutors must prove is that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. If you intended to return it, the charge is more likely joyriding (see below).

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Alhambra, CA)
• Felony Prison Sentence: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail Sentence: Up to 1 year
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Vehicle Code § 10851 is commonly charged with or in place of grand theft auto. This is because § 10851 applies whether or not the alleged offender was going to return the automobile. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.

This charge is popular in Alhambra, CA, courts as either a plea deal or as its own charge.

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. It may not sound like a big deal to borrow a car without permission and bring it back, but a joyriding conviction can be a felony in Alhambra, CA, making it critical to get an expert vehicle theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

In most circumstances, Alhambra, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. However, you can still face felony charges. This mostly applies to individuals with a criminal history, but not always.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

Carjacking is one of the most serious vehicle-related charges in California. It is defined as taking a motor vehicle from another person through force or fear — essentially a robbery of a car. Because of the violent element, carjacking is always a felony and often has a mandatory prison sentence, as probation is not an option.

The impacts of a carjacking conviction are far-reaching, as they include a "strike" on your record. This increases the penalty for future criminal convictions.

Possible Penalties:

• Prison: 3, 5, or 9 years in state prison
• Enhancements: Additional years for weapon use or injury
• Three Strikes: Yes — counts as a strike offense
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Possession of a Stolen Vehicle — California Penal Code § 496d

It may be hard to believe, but you can face vehicle theft related charges without committing theft. If you have or are storing a automobile that you knew or should have known was stolen, you can be charged under PC § 496d — even if you had no role in the original theft.

This charge can sneak up on you, especially if you ever have purchased a vehicle outside of formal sales channels. The state must prove you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — a skillful vehicle theft crimes lawyer may use a strategy that raises doubts as to your knowledge.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year

White Collar Crime Charges We Defend in Alhambra, CA

White collar crimes in Alhambra, CA, vary widely in context and action, but each of them share one thing in common: abuse of an organization for personal gain.

Many white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is a good example of this: For this alleged crime, someone would legally be in charge of a person's or organization's money, but would take from it for personal use. Money laundering an attempt to hide illegal money as legal income. For example, if someone made money from a drug deal, then pretended to have another person pay them for a job, that would be money laundering. Meanwhile, bribery doesn't just involve taking money, but instead consists of one person giving another money in exchange for some sort of benefit.

Not all white-collar crimes involve financial exchanges, though (at least at first glance). Forgery is when someone creates a fake document with intentions to use it in a future theft, and identity theft involves stealing another person's personal information. You can face either of these charges without having taken money from the alleged victim.

Embezzlement, Money Laundering, Fraud & More

Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — years in prison, massive fines, major career setbacks, and long-lasting reputational damage. If you want to fight back against these consequences, you need a financial theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of California white collar crime law.

White Collar Crimes — Synopsis

The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. These charges will include the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal gain. Alhambra, CA, because of its proximity to major financial and entertainment centers, sees some of California's most complex white collar prosecutions.

These charges can seemingly come out of nowhere, as state investigators will take months to years to build a case before filing charges. If the police have reached out to you for questioning, don't talk to them alone. An attorney is essential as soon as you find out you're under investigation. In some cases, we can intervene early and prevent charges from even being filed.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement occurs when someone who has been entrusted with property fraudulently converts that property for their own use. The main feature is the pre-existing lawful access — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.

Hypothetical examples: An accountant siphoning company funds; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; a financial advisor moving client funds to personal accounts; A cashier voiding out a transaction but keeping the money; a charity collector taking cash donations while leaving other types alone.

Potential Penalties:

• Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• Large Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
• Additional: Repay alleged victims, employment restrictions

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering involves taking money gained from a different crime and disguising it as being honestly earned. It typically consists of three stages: placement (introducing dirty money into the financial system), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).

California's money laundering statute is set to combat financial actions over $5,000 conducted with knowledge that the money was obtained through criminal activity. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, risking up to two decades of prison time.

Potential Penalties (State):

• Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Fines: Up to $250,000 or twice the amount laundered
• Federal Add-On: Up to 20 years federal prison

Bribery — California Penal Code § 67–68 / § 92

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — government officials, judges, lawmakers, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever position you're in, a Alhambra, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to protect you from the prosecution.

What if they didn't accept the bribe? Whether you offered or accepted a bribe, you can be charged in Alhambra, CA. Even if the potential recipient declines the bribe, you could still face charges just for attempting it.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
• Public Officials: Permanent ineligibility for office
• Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

You can be charged with forgery in Alhambra, CA, if you allegedly changed or made a fake document to trick someone into giving you money or other valuables. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers bills, money orders, stock certificates, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, court orders, prescriptions, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.

What if I didn't steal anything with it? The forgery charges are independent of any related fraud charges, so anyone can be charged even if they didn't use the forged item. Just the plan to commit fraud, combined with the creation or use of the forged item, is enough for a conviction.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year

Identity Theft — California Penal Code § 530.5

In Alhambra, CA, identity theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal identifying information — name, Social Security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or other data — for any unlawful purpose, such as obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.

Crucially: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply taking and using someone else's information without permission is enough to warrant a crime under state law. This makes it critical to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the particular of your case.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Alhambra, CA, and increasingly involve federal charges when conducted online, across state lines, or at scale.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Per Victim: Charges can stack — one count per victim
• Federal: Up to 15–30 years (aggravated cases)

Fraud Charges We Defend in Alhambra, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in Alhambra, CA. Broadly speaking, someone who commits theft by acting dishonestly in order to get another person to give away money voluntarily can be charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.

Insurance fraud is one of the most common types of fraud. It involves lying to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. As an example, if someone were to hide their valuable property and claim it was stollen, that person commits insurance fraud.

A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where someone takes advantage of government assistance programs by providing false information to them. An example of this would be pretending that one's income is lower than it actually is in order to receive food stamps.

Another popular variation is credit card fraud. This one is a little different because instead of representing someone about themselves, for credit card fraud, normally a person is lying about the credit card they are using. If you allegedly took a credit card and used it without permission, you can face credit card fraud charges.

Because fraud cases can vary so much from each other, having a theft crimes lawyer with experience in all these areas is essential.

Types of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

You could face accusations of fraud in Alhambra, CA, for a wide variety of actions — from simple misrepresentations to elaborate financial schemes. Because the evidence can be very complex and there can be a large amount of it, you need an expert theft crimes lawyer who can effectively navigate all of the intricacies.

Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532

Many "fraud" charges in Alhambra fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when one person tricks another person through disonest means, causing them to voluntarily transfer money or property. Theft by false pretenses is distinct because the supposed victim intentionally parts with their valuables, as opposed to robbery, where they are taken by force.

Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; pitching investments based on false information; lying about the condition of goods sold.

If you're facing theft by false pretenses charges, it could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The level depends on the value of the property obtained through fraud, using the same $950 threshold as petty/grand theft.

Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550

You can face insurance fraud charges for making untruthful statements in reports to your insurance agency, so that they will provide you with a benefit you are not supposed to receive. The Alhambra, CA, prosecution takes insurance fraud extremely seriously, and the state has a dedicated Insurance Fraud Division that actively investigates these cases. An expert theft crimes lawyer will fight the allegations and consider multiple defenses to help you find the best outcome possible

Typical examples include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing false theft reports; inflating repair cost claims; arson for insurance proceeds; workers' compensation fraud; health insurance billing fraud.

Potential Penalties:

• Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
• Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
• Additional: Career and job restrictions/penalties

Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j

In Alhambra, CA, credit card fraud covers a wide range of conduct involving fraudulent use of credit or debit cards. You could be accused of using another person's card without consent, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or illegally obtaining or selling card account information.

Regarding federal charges: It's common in California credit card fraud cases for there to also be federal charges, particularly when cards are used across state lines or the internet is involved. Your theft crimes lawyer needs to have experience fighting fraud charges in both state and federal court.

Potential Penalties (State):

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
• Federal Prison: Up to 15 years (federal charges)

Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980

Welfare fraud involves making false statements or omissions to receive government assistance benefits — including CalWORKs, Medi-Cal, CalFresh (food stamps), General Relief, or other public aid programs — that you are not eligible for, or to receive more than you are entitled to.

Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; misrepresenting household composition; Trading or selling food stamps; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.

Penalties for welfare fraud, if convicted, can result in fines, prison time, and required repayment of the value taken. Your premier Alhambra, CA, theft crimes lawyer can help show issues in the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950 (commonly): Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• Repayment: Full restitution to the government

Additional: Loss of future benefit eligibility

Hospice Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550

Hospice fraud occurs when a hospice provider bills Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurers for services that were not rendered, were medically unnecessary, or were provided to patients who did not actually qualify for hospice care. To legally receiveMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must have a terminal prognosis of six months or less to live if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — a threshold that fraudulent providers routinely falsify.

While it's possible for care recipients to face hospice fraud accusations, they are more commonly made against the care provider. Hospice can be a challenging situation for many people, and frustrations with the situation can turn into unjust accusations. These accusations are particularly dangerous because they are often charged in federal court in Alhambra, CA, meaning you're up against very difficult odds.

Warning: Hospice fraud investigations frequently involve parallel criminal and civil proceedings. A qui tam relator (whistleblower) can trigger a False Claims Act lawsuit resulting in treble damages and civil penalties entirely separate from any criminal indictment. These investigations can go on for extended periods of time without your knowledge, until the state is ready to file charges.

Potential Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
• Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus $13,000–$27,000 per false claim
• State Charges: Up to 5 years (CA Penal Code § 550)
• Additional: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal programs; license revocation

Medicare Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b

Medicare fraud charges have particularly far-reaching consequences. Because Medicare is a federal program, these charges are almost exclusively prosecuted at the federal level — typically by the U.S. Attorney's Office with support from the FBI, HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains an active presence in Alhambra, CA.

Medicare fraud convictions are particularly bad because they can prevent you from ever receiving Medicare or Medi-Cal benefits in the future. This is on top of other consequences, like the loss of professional licensing. Medicare fraud investigations are especially tricky to detect, because they often involve datasets rather than on-the-ground investigators. This means that the first warning sign that you're being investigated can come too late to clear things up.

Critical Note: The United States also has a law (the Anti-Kickback Statute – 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) which makes it a form of Medicare fraud to offer payment for Medicare-related referrals. You can be accused of breaking this law whether you gave or received the money.

Potential Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (up to 20 if serious bodily injury results)
• Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
• Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus civil monetary penalties per claim
• Additional: Loss of eligibility for all federal health care programs

Health Care Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550

Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.

You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California law specifically targets false or misleading statements made in connection with insurance claims, including the submission of multiple claims for a single loss and the preparation of false medical reports. Health care fraud cases in Alhambra, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Doctors, billing organizations, office managers, and clerks have all found themselves accused of health care fraud in the past.

Possible Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
• If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
• State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
• Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
• Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences

Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b

Home health fraud is a subcategory of Medicare and Medicaid fraud that specifically targets the fraudulent billing for in-home health services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. In order to be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, the person receiving care must be homebound and require special care. Home health fraud exploits this framework in a variety of ways.

Common schemes include: billing for visits to patients who are not homebound and do not qualify; billing for services that were never provided; falsifying physician orders and certifications to manufacture eligibility; paying illegal kickbacks to recruiters, physicians, or patient cappers for referrals; and billing therapy services at inflated frequency levels unsupported by clinical documentation. Southern California has historically been one of the country's highest-risk regions for home health fraud, and federal task forces have conducted simultaneous multi-agency takedowns targeting dozens of home health agencies in Alhambra, CA. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.

Critical Note: The United States' Stark Law makes it a crime for a doctor to refer a medicare patient to a home health company, if the doctor makes money from that company. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — and a Stark Law violation does not require proof of intent.

Possible Penalties:

• Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count
• Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
• Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus penalties per false claim
• Administrative: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal; agency decertification

Violent Theft Charges We Fight in Alhambra, CA

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be facing both theft charges and violent crime charges in Alhambra, CA. One common example is robbery. A person commits robbery when they take something directly from another person by force. As opposed to burglary, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. Carjacking can be compared to grand theft auto in the same way.

There is another way violence and theft crimes can overlap, though: when an initially nonviolent theft collides with a person. Home invasion charges can take place when a person allegedly breaks into a location to commit a burglary, but finds people inside and threatens them with violence.

Extortion is a unique form of theft. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. The alleged offender doesn't necessarily need to threaten physical violence, but it can consist of any form of harm to the victim, including emotional or reputational. For example, if one person had a compromising photo of another and threatened to release it if not given money, that would be extortion.

Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft

When theft involves force, fear, or coercion, the penalties increase dramatically. You're almost guaranteed to be facing felony charges. Immediate Alhambra, CA, legal counsel is non-negotiable.

Robbery — California Penal Code § 211

Robbery is a violent form of theft that involves either threatening or assaulting someone in order to take their belongings. All robbery charges in California are felonies.

California distinguishes between first-degree robbery (committed against someone in an inhabited structure, a taxi/rideshare driver, or while using an ATM) and second-degree robbery (all other cases). First-degree robbery carries significantly higher penalties.

Possible Penalties:

• 1st Degree Prison: 3, 4, or 6 years
• 2nd Degree Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Weapon Use: +3 to 10 years
• Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony

Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518

Extortion occurs when someone threatens another person — with violence, property damage, accusation of a crime, or exposure of damaging information — in order to obtain money, property, or an official act. While extortion does always involve a threat of some kind, it doesn't need to be personal violence, like with robbery. In many cases, it is instead property damage, or to publicly humiliate someone.

Common examples: Threatening to falsely accuse someone of theft unless the property is given up; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to deny someone a rightful certification unless special favors are given.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Burglary Charges We Fight in Alhambra, CA

Burglary charges in Alhambra, CA, are distinct from theft, but often go hand-in-hand. California defines burglary as entering a location without permission in order to steal something or break a different law. This is commonly a structure, like a convenience store (in which case it would be commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly broke a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.

No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Due to this, defenses to burglary charges can hinge on whether or not you had permission to be in the structure, and what your intentions were while you were there.

Burglary Related Charges

Shoplifting also involves the theft of items from a store, similar to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. But that all changed with the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, which made shoplifting a separate crime, applicable when the alleged offender was attempting theft from a store while it is open for operations. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. Today, shoplifting is no longer a subset of burglary offenses in Alhambra, CA, and faces more lenient penalties if convicted.

Another related charge is vandalism. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by breaking a window to in order to steal from the building. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in Alhambra, CA, doubling the importance of working with a top quality theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

Finally, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in Alhambra, CA. What can lead to this? Receiving stolen property charges. This applies when someone supposedly buys, hides, or receives something that they know was taken unlawfully from another person.

Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges

People commonly think of burglary as entering someone's house to commit theft, but that's not how Alhambra, CA law works — you can be charged with burglary for entering a wide range of structures with the intent to commit a crime inside, even if you never actually steal anything.

Residential Burglary (First Degree) — California Penal Code § 459

The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence while planning to commit a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. The reason that you went there is the key to burglary charges.

Residential burglary is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and Alhambra, CA courts are likely to give you a long sentence. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle

Potential Penalties:

• Prison: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony strike
• Probation: Generally not an option for first-degree
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Commercial Burglary (Second Degree) — California Penal Code § 459

Second-degree burglary covers entering any non-residential structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony — stores, offices, warehouses, garages, and other commercial buildings. You could face either misdemeanor or felony charges for this offense.

Commercial burglary is closely related to shoplifting, and used to be the same offense. However, the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014 distinguished the two, and it's possible your theft crimes lawyer will use this to advantage in your case.

Potential Penalties:

• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
• Charge Type: Wobbler

Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459

Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. The details of this charge are different from case to case, because burglary of a vehicle could either be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.

Key distinction: The vehicle must be locked for a burglary charge to apply. This is still against the law, but the burglary enhancement requires that the vehicle was secured in some way.

Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211

A home invasion occurs when someone commits burglary of a residential structure while the occupants are present, often involving threats or violence. Alhambra, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. It's even more important to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer than usual in these cases.

As with other burglary charges, home invasion burglary charges don't tend to exist in a vacuum — you're likely also facing other theft or violent crimes charges. If you are fighting home invasion charges, you need the most experienced criminal defense team available, and you need them as soon as possible.

Possible Penalties:

• Burglary Base: 2, 4, or 6 years
• Robbery Add-On: Additional 2–5 years
• Weapon Enhancement: Additional 3–10 years
• Three Strikes: Yes — multiple strikes possible

Property & Other Offenses

Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing

While not theft charges in and of themselves, vandalism, trespassing, perjury, and receiving stolen property charges are closely associated and often charged together. You need a Alhambra, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

This charge applies to some people who are indirectly involved in a theft. Under PC § 496, if you buy, receive, conceal, sell, or help conceal property that you know is stolen, you can be convicted — even if you had no role in the original theft.

Receiving stolen property charges can fall apart if you can prove you weren't aware that the item was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items at an unusually low price, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not prove that you were aware the items were stolen.

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year

Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594

Instead of violently harming another person or animal, vandalism is focused on property harm. It occurs when one person marks or damages another person's property, without permission and for bad purposes. This is related to theft because in many cases, the accused will be alleged to have broken into a location as a part of the theft.

The threshold for felony vandalism in California is $400 or more in damage — a much lower bar than for theft offenses.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
• Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
• Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
• Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

Trespassing is another property crime, though it doesn't involve stealing (directly). Trespassing is when one person goes onto someone else's property when they aren't supposed to be, and/or refuses to exit. In the context of theft crimes, trespassing charges frequently accompany burglary or other property offense charges — because burglary inherently involves unauthorized entry.

On its own, trespassing is normally charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, Alhambra, CA, prosecutors can also use it as a part of a case for more serious charges. Defenses often hinge on whether permission was given or reasonably believed to exist.

Perjury — California Penal Code § 118

Perjury is making a false statement under oath, knowing it is false, in a legal proceeding or official document. While not a theft crime per se, perjury frequently arises in theft cases — for example, making false statements to police, lying in a court declaration, or providing false testimony at trial.

Do not make this mistake: Speaking to the police at all is a risk, and it's even worse if you lie to them. By keeping a theft crimes lawyer on hand, you can avoid perjury charges and build a strong defense.

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Felony
• Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison

Specialized & Enhanced Charges

Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes

These charges often carry enhanced penalties beyond standard theft offenses, and require attorneys with specific knowledge of the statutes involved.

Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)

Stealing a gun is extra serious in California — while the usual threshold for stealing something to be considered 'grand theft' is $950, there is no minimum value if the item stolen was a gun. Due to this stealing even a low-value firearm results in a felony charge. Grand theft of a firearm is considered a serious felony and can count as a strike under California's Three Strikes law.

To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The combination of state and federal exposure makes this one of the most legally complex theft charges you can face. And it's even more important to work with an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.

Potential Penalties:

• Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Strike: Serious felony — potential strike offense
• Federal: Additional federal charges possible

Theft from an Elder / Financial Elder Abuse — Welfare & Institutions Code § 15610.30

California law provides special enhanced protections for victims aged 65 or older (and dependent adults). You can be accused of financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) if you were allegedly in a position of trust for an older adult, and took advantage of their money.

The prosecution in Alhambra, CA, does not take these charges lightly and usually pursues harsh penalties. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. In addition to the legal penalties, you could also face a civil suit, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.

Examples: Caregiver taking money from a client's account; family member exerting undue influence over an elder's finances; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; impostor pretends to be a law enforcement official.

Possible Penalties:

• Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
• Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
• Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
• Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court

Looting — California Penal Code § 463

During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. These cases are prosecuted especially hard under California Penal Code § 463, which increases the minimum penalties for many charges.

These charges are often looked upon very negatively in Alhambra, CA. The state will often pursue looting charges beyond what it would have for ordinary burglary or theft offenses. During declared states of emergency, prosecutors seek the harshest available penalties, and courts are generally unsympathetic. Looting of a business that is closed due to a civil disturbance, or taking property from an evacuated residence, commonly triggers these charges.

Potential Penalties (Enhanced):

• Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
• Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
• Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
• Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods

Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery

Even if the supposed burglary or robbery failed, attempted theft charges will still apply. An attempt requires: (1) the specific intent to commit the crime, and (2) a direct, unequivocal act toward committing it — whatever the outcome was.

The general rule is that attempted crimes are punished at half the sentence of the completed offense. So while residential burglary carries a prison sentence of 2, 4, or 6 years, attempted residential burglary would only carry a sentence of 1, 2, or 3 years. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.

California's Three Strikes law doesn't provide any leeway if someone attempted to commit a crime unsuccessfully — robbery attempts and burglary attempts are still strikes, whether or not they were successful. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.

For any of the charges above, or more, when you call our firm, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Alhambra, CA, who has the training and experience needed to find a path forward. As a team, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.

What to Do if You're Accused of Theft

Being charged with theft can be intimidating. You're up against the Alhambra, CA, prosecutor's office, not everyone will believe your side of the story, and a conviction could derail your life. Without help, it can seem impossible.

But you have an ally. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help. With one of our Alhambra, CA, theft crimes lawyers on your case, you'll get honest, personalized legal advice on how to achieve the best outcome possible. If you're up against theft crime accusations, here are our recommendations:

1. Do Not Resist Arrest

Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Fighting back can only get you into more trouble.

2. Stay Calm and Stay Silent

It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – don't talk. In fact, don't even talk on the ride to the station. Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

3. Call a Alhambra, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away

In California, you will be given the opportunity to make three completed phone calls after being arrested. One of these should be to your theft crimes lawyer. The sooner you hire an expert to help with your case, the better your chances are for a positive outcome. We are available at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Secure Bail for Release

Before you can leave the jail, you'll probably have to go through a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will fight for your pre-trial release and lower bail requirements. Your rights and freedom matter, no matter what you've been accused of.

5. Work With Your Lawyer to Build Your Defense

With the right attorney by your side, it's time to create a strategy to fight the charges. A skilled theft crimes lawyer in Alhambra, CA, will hear your side of the story, negotiate with the state, and argue for charges to be dismissed wherever possible.

Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges

Every theft case is different — and every defense strategy needs to be tailored to the specific details, evidence, and accusations. If you're up against theft allegations in Alhambra, CA, here are some of the main defensive strategies your theft crimes lawyer should consider. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience with all of them.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

One of the most powerful defenses in any theft case is the absence of criminal intent. In Alhambra, CA, intent to commit theft specifically requires someone to plan to permanently take someone else's property away. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.

The claim of right defense applies when a defendant genuinely believed — even mistakenly — that they had a legal right to the property they took. If you genuinely believed you had the right to take the property — even if that belief was mistaken — it negates the criminal intent required for a theft conviction. Similar defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the defendant took the wrong item believing it to be their own); voluntary intoxication (this does not always apply, but can limit intent in some cases); and absence of permanence (the defendant intended to return the property, which may reduce or eliminate a grand theft charge even if another theft offense still applies).

Key principle: This is a major hurdle for the prosecution in any theft case. This isn't merely a backup plan. It is often the strongest available defense, especially in cases involving family disagreements, where sometimes people can forget about who the formal owner of a piece of property is and unintentionally misuse it.

Defense Application:

• Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
• Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
• Fraud / False Pretenses: Attacks the knowing misrepresentation element
• Receiving Stolen Property: Challenges knowledge that property was stolen

Illegal Search & Seizure in Theft/Burglary Cases

The Fourth Amendment to the United States Constitution and Article I, Section 13 of the California Constitution protect individuals against unreasonable searches and seizures. In theft and burglary cases, critical evidence — stolen property, alleged tools of the crime, communications, financial records — is frequently obtained through police searches. If searches violated constitutional requirements, the evidence can be suppressed and the prosecution may not be able to move forward with your case.

Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; searches resulting from a warrant that was based on false information; arrests without probable cause leading to an invalid search at the time of the arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that go beyond the limits of a legal warrant. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — suppression of unlawfully abstained evidence motions can destroy the prosecution's argument, leading to dropped or dismissed charges.

In some cases, this is all it takes to mount a successful defense against theft charges. Even partial suppression — if the court allows some evidence but not all of it — can substantially change the outcome. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Alhambra, CA, courts, and are a standard component of aggressive defense in all property crime cases.

Suppression Scenarios:

• Warrantless Home Entry: Except in special circumstances, if evidence was taken from your home without a warrant, it can be thrown out
• Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, permission, or a recognized exception such as probable cause
• Digital Evidence / Cell Phones: Require a warrant under Riley v. California (2014)
• Fruit of the Poisonous Tree: Evidence derived from an illegal search may also be excluded

False Accusation / Misidentification

The Alhambra, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can result from personal disagreements, cases of mistaken identity, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — without a strong defensive strategy, you're gambling with your freedom.

Eyewitness misidentification is one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions nationally. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — most notably across racial lines, under poor lighting conditions, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. Even if the witness is sure, they could be mistaken. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Alhambra, CA, court.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: providing evidence that proves the accused could not have been present because they were in another location; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; attacking the character of the person making the allegations; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and demonstrating inconsistencies between witness statements made at different points in time.

If you are facing false allegations: Do not confront witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without your theft lawyer present. It's easy to say something that seems innocuous but accidentally makes yourself look guilty. Before speaking to the police, call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley. We're here to protect your rights and defend your innocence.

Lack of Knowledge — For receiving stolen property and possession of a stolen vehicle, the state must prove you were aware that the property was obtained through theft. We challenge this element aggressively — many people unknowingly purchase stolen goods with no way to verify their origin.

Consent / Permission — Consent is the defining feature behind many theft charges; if you didn't have permission to use take an item, you could be found guilty. If you had permission to be in a location or to take an item — even if that permission was informal or later disputed — this is a complete defense to theft and burglary charges.

Constitutional Violations — From Miranda rights violations to due process claims, we examine your case for every constitutional protection that may have been violated — and use those violations to suppress evidence, challenge the prosecution's case, or secure a dismissal.

Diversion Programs — Particularly for offenders without a record, California offers sentencing alternatives that can result in charges being dismissed after completing community service, restitution, or counseling. We identify every diversion opportunity available in your specific case.

Challenging the Value of Property — If you're up against grand theft charges, but the supposedly stolen property didn't reach the $950 value threshold, we will fight to have the charges reduced. We'll show the true value of the property and argue for lesser charges.

Theft Crime Expungement / Record Clearance — California Penal Code § 1203.4

A theft conviction does not have to define you for life. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, as long as you've finished probation, you can ask for a guilty or no contest plea to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully completed all terms of probation, such as paying fines and restitution; not currently be charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for any other offense; and — following recent changes in the law — in many cases, must not have served time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

In cases where probation was not granted, a petition under Penal Code § 1203.4a may provide relief after one year has elapsed since conviction. For those whose cases were dismissed without conviction, a separate petition under Penal Code § 851.91 may be available to seal the underlying arrest record entirely.

Expungement under § 1203.4 carries meaningful practical benefits: Of note, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. However, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it does not restore firearm rights, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in Alhambra, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.

Important: Even after typically California expungement proceedings under § 1203.4, your criminal record can still be seen by the police and certain other organizations. If your goal is the total removal of the record, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, you will need a different method of expungement. Consulting with an experienced attorney before pursuing any post-conviction relief is strongly advisable.

Relief Options:

• PC § 1203.4: Dismissal after successful probation completion
• PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (1 year post-conviction)
• PC § 851.91: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
• SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
• Limitations: Still restricted from owning guns, and the police can still review these records

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Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Alhambra, CA

Is there a difference between petty theft and grand theft in Alhambra, California?


The primary distinction is the value of the property allegedly taken. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. Anything over $950, guns, or vehicles all result in grand theft charges, which can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Your theft crimes lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to defend you against either theft charge.

Can a theft charge be expunged from my record in California?


Frequently, yes. California Penal Code § 1203.4 allows for expungement of misdemeanor and many felony theft convictions after successful completion of probation. This will protect your record, prevent most of the public from being able to access it, and help you get a clean start. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.

What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Alhambra, CA?


While this is still serious, you don't need to panic just yet — you will probably only face misdemeanor charges. Frequently, you can participate in a diversionary program instead of serving a jail sentence, and if you are successful, the charges will be dismissed. Our theft crimes attorneys can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and protecting your record.

I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?


If the charge you are facing is one of receiving stolen property, as a part of securing a conviction the prosecution needs to prove that you knew (or should have known) that the property was stolen. If you genuinely didn't know and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, that is a strong defense. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. That said, circumstances like strangely good deal or no documentation of ownership can lessen the strength of your defense, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Alhambra, CA?


Extremely. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have any prior convictions, you could be up against increased sentences. Call one of our attorneys as soon as possible at (800) 755-5174.

What is a "wobbler" offense in California?


The state of California defines several offenses as "wobblers," which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecuting attorney makes this call based on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Many theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. As your theft crimes lawyer, we will argue for misdemeanor charges if you are facing a wobbler, to protect your record and freedom.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


You can avoid jail in many cases, actually. Alhambra, CA courts have sentencing alternatives that will give you an alternative to incarceration, particularly for misdemeanors and first-time offenders. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. The specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Contact our firm to review what options are available to you.

Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?


Yes. In California, the actions you take after unlawfully entering a location don't determine a burglary charge. Instead, the state defines burglary as going into a building in order to steal something or break a felony law. Whether you stole something or not doesn't matter — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. Because of this, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is central to burglary defense.

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Facing a Theft Charge in Alhambra, CA? Contact Us Right Away.

There is no such thing as a minor theft accusation. Our attorneys are equipped to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call now for a no-obligation consult on your case.

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