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Theft Lawyer Calabasas, CA. Being arrested for theft is just the beginning . You might even be facing multiple theft charges at once. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.

Even when the charges are piling up against you, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our legal team has extensive experience defending clients against all manner of theft crime charges. With a Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team building your defense, you'll have someone by your side from day one until you get justice.

Connect with a lawyer now at (800) 755-5174 or send us a message about your case for a private review of your case at no cost. It's easy to get started, and acting fast can mean everything.

Why You Need a Leading Calabasas, CA, Theft Defense Lawyer

You should never take theft allegations lightly, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to navigate a complicated legal system and make it more likely that you'll face the following:

1. Prison Sentence: Most theft charges in Calabasas, CA, carry a potential jail sentence of six months or more.
2. Financial Penalties: You can lose hundreds or thousands of dollars in addition to paying recompense to the alleged victim.
3. Loss of Employmnet: Having a criminal record can negatively affect your future career goals.
4. Stained Reputation: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
5. And more.

To maximize your chances of replacing these consequences with freedom, you'll need a Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer on your case. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is ready to help. Here's some of what sets us apart:

What Sets the Law Offices of David S. Chesley Apart

Picking the right Calabasas, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what set us apart — and the difference it will make for your case:

• Former District Attorneys & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We know what weaknesses to exploit.
• Deep Court Relationships — Decades of practice in Calabasas, CA, courts means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures — and we leverage that for better outcomes for every client.
• Trial-Ready From Day One — 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 — Our representation doesn't end at the verdict. We offer record clearing and expungement services to help you move on and protect your future career and opportunities.
• Superb Reputation – well-respected amongst both clients and peers.
• Ready for Your Call Right Away — Our team is available whenever you need us most. You can reach a theft crimes attorney any time of day or night — because waiting until Monday morning can cost you critical opportunities.
• Entirely 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.

Every Theft Charge We Defend in Calabasas, CA

Click any charge below to navigate directly to a full breakdown of the law, penalties, 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

Calabasas, CA, Theft Allegations We Defend Against

Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. Should you need a theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, don't hesitate: 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

In Calabasas, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. You can face these charges for taking someone's possessions without permission. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: For anything $950 or less, the charges will ordinarily be petty theft, while any more will normally be grand theft.

Defending petty theft allegations is usually easier because the potential penalties are less severe (it's normally charged as a misdemeanor). However, fighting grand theft charges normally is a greater challenge, because it is more likely to be a felony. Regardless of what you're up against, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.

Below, we've written a table to summarize the differences between petty theft and grand theft:

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

Shoplifting used to be a type of commercial burglary, rather than its own offense. This changed after California passed Proposition 47 in 2014. Shoplifting is defined as entering a business during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.

In the past, because shoplifting fell under burglary, it was more likely to be charged as a felony. Today, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that repeat offenders, organized retail theft, or amounts over $950 can still result in felony charges. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you maximize your chances of a positive outcome.

Organized retail theft (multiple defendants or repeat offenses coordinated to steal from retailers) has been a target of recent California laws, and is prosecuted harshly in Calabasas, CA.

Shoplifting Possible Penalties:

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

Potential defenses are: No intention to steal, innocence, 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 with a prior — sometimes abbreviated PTWP — allows prosecutors to elevate what would ordinarily be a misdemeanor petty theft charge into a wobbler when the defendant has a qualifying prior conviction on their record. Calabasas, CA prosecutors can use this law against you to turn even a small-time theft allegation into a wobbler — meaning that you could be facing years in prison.

To activate this sentencing enhancement, the prosecution must establish: (1) the defendant is guilty of 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. Defendants with certain prior serious or violent felonies, prior sex offense registration requirements, or prior burglary convictions under PC § 459 remain fully exposed to felony enhancement even for minor shoplifting incidents.

Possible Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA

Whatever Calabasas, CA, vehicle theft charge you're facing, we can help you fight it. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a unique charge. Grand theft auto comes from a section of California's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.

If the prosecution is stating that someone took the vehicle and was planning to keep it for themselves, not return it, they're likely going to face grand theft auto charges. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're probably going to face charges of joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in Calabasas, CA, because they're likely to be charged as misdemeanors, versus grand theft auto felonies.

You can even face criminal charges without having committed an act of theft; How so? Through "possession of a stolen vehicle". Similar to receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Even just owning or keeping the car or truck can result in these charges.

When you contact our law firm, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has relationships with the local courts and can argue for reduced charges in many cases. Call today to start making your case.

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

Despite what popular culture would have you believe, there isn't a specific "grand theft auto" law in California — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. The law doesn't even specify if the vehicle needs to be working — stealing a nearly worthless broken down car would still qualify as grand theft.

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).

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Calabasas, CA)
• Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail: 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. Unlike grand theft auto, this statute does not require intent to permanently deprive the owner. This law is relevant any time someone allegedly drives a vehicle without permission.

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

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding charges focus on intent. If you allegedly drove a car without permission, but brought it back afterwards, that would be joyriding. But if you did the same thing and planned to keep the vehicle, that would be grand theft. Even though it's not normally as bad as grand theft auto, it can still be charged as a felony. To protect your freedom, you need an experienced Calabasas, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.

In Calabasas, CA, joyriding is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor, making it significantly less severe than grand theft auto. That said, you can still face felony charges. This mostly applies to individuals with a criminal history, but not always.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

If you had to pick the worst vehicle theft crime to be charged with, carjacking would be a leading contender. 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.

A carjacking conviction will also add a "strike" to your criminal record, which can increase future prison sentences.

Potential 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

In Calabasas, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you are in possession of a vehicle when you knew or should have know it was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.

This charge frequently catches people who buy vehicles through informal channels, accept a vehicle as a gift, or borrow a car without fully investigating its ownership history. The state must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — a skillful vehicle theft crimes lawyer may use a strategy that raises doubts as to your knowledge.

Potential Penalties:

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

White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA

White collar crimes in Calabasas, CA, can be any one of a variety of charges, but they all have a common trait: abuse of an organization for personal gain.

Many white collar crimes are defined by how money is transferred. 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 are centered around the exchange of money, 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 someone's personal information. In both forgery and identity theft cases, you don't need to have stolen someone else's money to be found guilty.

Embezzlement, Money Laundering, Fraud & More

White collar crimes carry severe consequences even without physical violence — incarceration, massive fines, professional license revocation, and permanent stains on your reputation. To protect yourself against these consequences, it's critical to have a theft crimes lawyer with local experience and expertise in your corner.

White Collar Crimes — Overview

Individual "white collar crimes" can look very different from each other. What unites these offenses is the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. Calabasas, 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. Call us now if you have any reason to believe the police are looking into you. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement is different from other forms of theft. For an embezzlement charge, the alleged offender would have lawful access to the property, just not for personal use. The key element 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 non-profit director misusing donated funds.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• High Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
• Additional: Full restitution, professional consequences

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering is the process of making illegally obtained money appear to have come from a legitimate source. It commonly is made up of three steps: placement (bringing the illegally-obtained money into the economy), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).

California's money laundering law aims at financial actions higher than $5,000 conducted with knowledge that the money was obtained through criminal activity. Federal money laundering charges (18 U.S.C. § 1956) can also apply, carrying sentences up to 20 years.

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

You can face bribery charges for offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in order to affect the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of elected officials, judges, legislators, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what the specifics of your case, a Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to give you insights into successful defense strategies.

What if they didn't accept the bribe? Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it could face charges in Calabasas, CA. Attempted bribery charges are even possible, if one person tries to bribe another, and the second person refuses it.

Potential Penalties:

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

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

You can be charged with forgery in Calabasas, 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 checks, receipts, stock certificates, deeds, wills, warrants, notary public symbols, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.

What if I didn't use the forged document? Whether or not you allegedly did something with the forgery is irrelevant. The intent to defraud, in addition to the creation or use of the false item, is sufficient to be convicted.

Possible 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

You can face identity theft allegations in Calabasas, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission for any unlawful purpose, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

Crucially: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Just taking and using someone's information without authorization is enough to violate state law. Because of this, you need to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the particular of your situation.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Calabasas, CA, and increasingly result in federal charges if the internet was involved, or the supposed victim and alleged offender were in different states.

Potential 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 Fight in Calabasas, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in Calabasas, CA. Generally speaking, someone who commits theft by acting dishonestly in order to get another person to give away money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is the most ordinary version of fraud.

Insurance fraud is a popular type of fraud in Calabasas, CA, wherein someone lies to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. As an example, after a car accident, a person who lies about how much damage was caused to get a bigger payout commits insurance fraud.

This is not unlike welfare fraud, where a person lies about their current circumstances to receive extra assistance from the government. An example of this would be claiming a child as a dependent to receive financial support, when the child has in fact moved out.

Another notable variation is credit card fraud. This type of fraud involves dishonesty about the credit card and/or how it was acquired. If the card is counterfeit or expired, but you allegedly try to use it anyways, you can face these charges.

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

Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

Fraud charges in Calabasas, CA, cover a vast range of conduct — from simple misrepresentations to elaborate financial schemes. These cases are often document-heavy and require a theft crimes lawyer who understands both the law and financial evidence.

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

Many "fraud" charges in Calabasas fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when one person lies to someone else, who then freely gives up something of value based on the false information. As opposed to forceful or unknowing theft, theft by false prestenses involves the alleged victim deliberately parting with their goods because of the deception.

Common examples: Lying about being a contest winner; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; pitching investments based on false information; lying about the condition of goods sold.

The charge level (misdemeanor vs. felony) 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. If you're facing insurance fraud charges in Calabasas, CA, it's possible that you'll go to prison for several years if convicted. An experienced theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and consider multiple defenses to help you find the best outcome possible

Frequent examples include: Staging or exaggerating auto accidents; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; exaggerating property damage; arson for insurance proceeds; fabricating injuries; health insurance billing fraud.

Possible 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 Calabasas, CA, credit card fraud covers a wide range of conduct involving fraudulent use of credit or debit cards. This includes using another individual's card without consent, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or illegally acquiring or selling card account information.

What to know about federal charges: Credit card fraud frequently triggers federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1029 in addition to state charges, particularly when cards are used across state lines or online. 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

Charges of welfare fraud in Calabasas, CA, can range widely in their specifics, but all have one thing in common: Deceiving the government in order to receive some kind of welfare benefit. Similar to other types of fraud, this could be part of an isolated individual incident or a widespread organized crime ring.

Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; using another person's EBT card; pretending that a child is still a dependent when they are not; not reporting new circumstances that would end benefits eligibility.

Penalties for welfare fraud, if convicted, can result in fines, prison time, and required repayment of the value taken. Your local Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and greatly improve your case's outlook.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950 (usually): 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 be eligible forMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must have a projected lifespan of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course — many hospice fraud cases are the result of these predictions being inaccurate.

Common schemes include: enrolling patients who do not meet the terminal illness threshold; billing for higher levels of care than were actually provided; "recycling" patients by discharging and re-enrolling them to reset billing cycles; paying illegal kickbacks to nursing facilities or physicians for patient referrals; and falsifying medical records to manufacture eligibility. Calabasas, CA, and Southern California have been identified by federal investigators as high-risk regions for hospice fraud, and the Department of Justice and HHS Office of Inspector General have conducted coordinated multi-agency enforcement actions targeting hospice agencies operating in this area.

Warning: Even if you have a plan for the criminal charges, don't let your guard down — it's very likely that you'll face a civil lawsuit in conjunction with the criminal charges. 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. Providers are often unaware that an investigation is underway until a search warrant is executed.

Possible 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)
• Extra: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal programs; license revocation

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

Medicare fraud encompasses a broad range of conduct involving the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the Medicare program. 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 Calabasas, 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.

Important: It's possible to be accused of Medicare fraud even when all forms of medical care were honest and legitimate. This can occur if a provider offers money to someone in exchange for accessing Medicare-sponsored services through that provider. Providers and referrers are both at risk of prosecution under these circumstances.

Possible 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: Ineligibility for all federal health care programs

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

Health care fraud charges are normally related to a person providing false information on an insurance form, in order to receive an undeserved payout. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.

Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California's statute specifically outlaws situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. Health care fraud cases in Calabasas, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Healthcare providers, billing companies, office workers, and support staff have all found themselves accused of health care fraud in the past.

Potential 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, at a fundamental level, it involves the same alleged act (lying in order to receive health care benefits). This one in particular is related to in-home health services — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and medical social services. In order to be eligible for Medicare benefits, the person receiving care must be homebound and require skilled care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.

A patient could be accused of this if they had a less serious condition, but claimed it was more dire, in order to receive in-home assistance. Meanwhile, a provider could be charged if a health service team member performs unneeded medical services in order to drive up bills. Home health fraud charges in Calabasas, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Warning: There are special restrictions placed on doctors to prevent home health fraud. For example, the United States' Stark Law makes it illegal for a doctor to send a patient to a home health services provider that the physician financially benefits from. 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.

Potential 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 Calabasas, CA

There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in Calabasas, CA. This can be the case when you're accused of 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 is to grand theft auto what robbery is to burglary.

That said, sometimes what started out as a burglary can end up with violent crime charges. 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 relies more on threats than actual violence to commit a theft. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. The threats don't always have to consist of physical violence, but the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. As an 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. These charges are always felonies and often carry strike designations. Your Calabasas, CA theft crimes lawyer should be someone who knows how to fight violent crime charges as well — at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience successfully defending against both.

Robbery — California Penal Code § 211

Many people confuse burglary and robbery, but they are actually very different crimes. Burglary generally occurs while the alleged victim is away, while in robbery cases, the supposed offender takes something from the alleged victim personally. 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

A person can be convicted of extortion if they coerce someone using threats, rather than force. The goal of extortion is normally to acquire some sort of benefit, either financial or through an action of the victim. The threat does not have to be of physical violence; threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information is sufficient.

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 harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.

Possible Penalties:

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

Burglary Charges We Fight in Calabasas, CA

Burglary is often charged along with theft in Calabasas, CA. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft or break a different law. In most cases, this is a building, like a retail store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you supposedly broke a car window to steal a wallet sitting on the seat, that would be considered burglary of a vehicle.

No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Because of 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 is closely related to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. However, as we discussed above a new law Proposition 47 (officially the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act), a ballot initiative passed by California voters on November 4, 2014 that distinguishes shoplifting as specifically attempting to steal merchandise from a business during regular business hours. These changes had an immediate impact, even for people who had already been convicted. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in Calabasas, CA (except in extreme cases).

Another related charge is vandalism. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by kicking in a door to burglarize someone's home. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in Calabasas, CA, doubling the importance of working with a top quality theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.

Finally, you can face theft charges in Calabasas, CA, even if you didn't steal anything yourself. How does this happen? Receiving stolen property charges. If you allegedly buy or take something that you know is stolen, or help the person who stole it hide the property, you can face these charges.

Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges

People commonly think of burglary as entering someone's house to commit theft, but that's not how Calabasas, 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

In California, first-degree burglary, sometimes called residential burglary, involves going to someone's dwelling place while planning to commit a theft or any felony inside. Nothing actually needs to be stolen. Your motivation for entering the location is what matters.

This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and Calabasas, CA courts treat it extremely harshly because it involves violation of someone's home. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle

Possible 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. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.

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

Vehicle burglary is similar to residential or commercial burglary — it also involves unlawfully entering a location, but in this case, that location is a vehicle. A typical example of this would be an alleged offender breaking into a car to steal a backpack or wallet within. 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. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, 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. Calabasas, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. If you're up against these charges, it's not good enough to settle for second-best — you need a leading theft crimes lawyer on your side.

Home invasion burglary frequently brings multiple charges simultaneously — first-degree burglary, robbery, assault, and potentially kidnapping — all carrying their own prison terms, often served consecutively. If you are fighting home invasion charges, you need defense attorneys that can give you top-quality service, 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

These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. Your Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer will need to balance all of the allegations and form a narrative to defeat them.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

You don't have to steal something to face theft-related criminal charges. California law makes it illegal to hide, purchase, sell, or otherwise possess stolen property, regardless of whether or not you're the one who stole it.

Receiving stolen property charges can fall apart if you can prove you weren't aware that the item was stolen. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items that are cheaply listed, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not make you guilty.

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.

Vandalism can either be a misdemeanor or a felony in California: For damage under $400, it's a misdemeanor, while for anything over, it's a felony.

Potential Penalties:

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

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

Trespassing involves entering or remaining on another person's property without permission. In many cases, because thefts often involve entering a location where one is not supposed to be, trespassing is charged alongside other offenses.

On its own, trespassing is usually charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, Calabasas, CA, prosecutors can also use it as a part of a case for more serious charges. Fighting these charges is often a matter of whether or not the alleged offender did in fact have permission or the right to be there.

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: You don't want to dig a deeper hole for yourself — if you're in a situation where you don't want to give an honest answer, just stay silent and ask for your theft crimes lawyer to help you out.

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)

California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. This means the theft of 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 potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more important to find an attorney that has wide resources and strong legal skills.

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

If the alleged victim was 65 or older, you might be up against elevated penalties. Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) is similar to embezzlement, in that it's possible the alleged offender had legitimate access to the property. If someone either misused the property or manipulated an elderly person to give it to them, that would violate this law.

This offense is aggressively prosecuted in Calabasas, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. People convicted of financial elder abuse often also have to repay the alleged victim, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.

Examples: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member doesn't provide an agreed upon level of care; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.

Potential 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.

If the enhanced penalties weren't enough on their own, the Calabasas, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Calabasas while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. An example might be breaking into someone's home during a riot and grabbing valuables to run away with.

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

Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Calabasas, CA. An attempt requires: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) a tangible step is taken towards breaking the law — whatever the outcome was.

Under most circumstances, in California, if you are convicted of attempting a crime you will be given half the sentence of the underlying offense. So attempted robbery carries half the prison exposure of robbery. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.

Attempted burglary and attempted robbery are still strike offenses in California. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.

For any of the charges above, or more, when you call us, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, who will listen to your side of the story and build a defense around that. As a team, we will defend your rights and your freedom.

5 Steps to Take When Accused of Theft

You need to take these accusations seriously. The Calabasas, CA, government is after you, the alleged victim is accusing you, and you need to defend your reputation as well as your innocence. When you're alone, it can seem impossible.

But you have an ally. When you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you get premier California legal representation on your case. A Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team will guide you on how to navigate your case. Here are the steps we recommend taking:

1. Comply With the Police

While it's reasonable to feel angry about being arrested, don't resist. Respectfully complying with the police officers will make the process go smoother. Refusing to comply can only get you into more trouble.

2. Remain Calm and Don't Talk

It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – don't talk. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Your answers can later be used as evidence in the case, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be charged with perjury.

3. Reach Out to a Calabasas, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away

In California, after you are processed for arrest, you get three phone calls. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. Getting legal assistance quickly can protect you from making mistakes that will come back to hurt you later. 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 firm's theft crimes defense attorneys will fight for your pre-trial release and lower bail requirements. We believe that protecting your freedom now is a part of protecting it for the long term.

5. Cooperate With Your Attorney to Create a Defense Strategy

With the right attorney by your side, it's time to create a strategy to fight the charges. A skillful theft crimes lawyer in Calabasas, CA, will take the time to listen to you, negotiate for deals with the prosecution, and fight for a dismissal wherever possible.

Theft Lawyer Defensive Strategies

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy needs to be adapted to the specific details, circumstances, and allegations. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in Calabasas, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

If you've been accused of stealing, you should discuss intent as a possible defense with your theft lawyer. In Calabasas, 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 a defendant sincerely believed the property was theirs, owed to them as payment, or that they had permission to take it, this can negate the required criminal intent. The belief does not have to be correct; it only has to be genuine. More related defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the defendant took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (this does not always apply, but can limit intent in some cases); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).

Key principle: This is a major hurdle for the prosecution in any theft case. This isn't merely a backup plan. May defenses against stealing allegations will incorporate intent to some degree, particularly in cases involving disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.

Using This Defense:

• Grand Theft: Charges may not apply if there was no intention to keep the allegedly stolen item
• Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
• Fraud / False Pretenses: Can apply when the defendant didn't know that what they were saying was false
• 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 many criminal cases, the Calabasas, CA, police department will gather evidence through searches. If the authorities didn't follow the rules, the evidence can be thrown out and the district attorney may need to drop charges.

Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: searches conducted without either a warrant or just cause; searches resulting from a warrant that was based on false information; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without appropriate legal authority; and searches that go beyond the limits of a legitimate warrant. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.

If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. Even partial suppression — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can make a big difference. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Calabasas, CA, courts, and are an essential tool for the defense when facing theft charges.

Suppression Scenarios:

• Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
• Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, valid consent, 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: If illegally obtained evidence leads to future evidence that was legally obtained, it's possible that all of it can be thrown out

False Accusation / Misidentification

The Calabasas, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can come from personal disputes, witnesses mistaking the defendant for someone else, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. You can't rely on your innocence to get you out of trouble — you need a Calabasas, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

One of the ways that innocent people are commonly accused in Calabasas, CA is by eyewitnesses mistaking them for the offender. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — especially across racial lines, if they didn't have a clear sightline, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Calabasas, CA, court.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: showing that the defendant was elsewhere at the time of the crime; challenging the reliability of the identification procedure used by law enforcement (photo arrays, live lineups, show-ups); exposing bias or motive on the part alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and demonstrating inconsistencies between witness statements made at different points in time.

If you are innocent: Do not confront witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not talk to the police without your theft defense lawyer present. Statements made to investigators — even truthful ones — can be mischaracterized, taken out of context, or used in unexpected ways. 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 prosecution must prove you were aware that the property was stolen. If you're facing an applicable charge, we will raise doubt as to your knowledge that the goods were stolen and explain how you could come to possess them without realizing.

Consent / Permission — Theft requires that property be taken without the owner's consent. It's not illegal to use someone else's property if you had permission.

Rights 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.

Sentencing Alternatives — Particularly for offenders with no prior offenses, California offers diversion programs 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 Property Valuation — In many cases, your charges are determined by how much was allegedly taken. Lower amounts lead to lesser charges. We'll show the true value of the property and argue for lesser charges.

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

Whatever your past is, you have a future. And we want to help you make the most of it. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, certain individuals with theft convictions can ask for their pleas to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully done all that was asked of you as a part of probation, including fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — in a newly added requirement — in several cases, must not have been incarcerated in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).

If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. 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.

Here are some of the advantages of getting your theft conviction expunged: Of note, job applications become a lot easier, as you won't have to mention your conviction. However, expungement does not seal a criminal record from all access — it doesn't allow gun ownership, doesn't prevent the conviction from impacting future cases, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in Calabasas, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.

Important: Expungement under § 1203.4 does not seal the record from law enforcement, licensing boards, or subsequent criminal proceedings. If your goal is full sealing, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, a more comprehensive post-conviction strategy is required. When you work with an expert theft crimes lawyer, you'll be able to explore other options for protecting yourself.

Relief Options:

• PC § 1203.4: Charges dismissed after successful probation completion
• PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (1 year post-conviction)
• PC § 851.91: Arrest record sealing where no conviction resulted
• SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
• Limitations: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases

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Calabasas, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Calabasas, 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. Grand theft charges will require elite legal representation in particular, though you will always need a theft crimes lawyer to defend you, regardless of the specifics.

Is it possible to expunge a theft conviction in California?


In many cases, yes. For probation sentences, expungement is often offered conditionally upon your completion. If you want to leave the past behind and move on with your life, this can be a major step forward. Our firm offers full expungement services.

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


While this is still serious, you don't need to panic just yet — you will probably only face misdemeanor charges. Additionally, we can often secure alternative sentencing options which will keep you out of jail. An attorney can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.

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 weren't aware and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. This is a strategy we frequently lean on in receiving stolen property cases. That said, circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can be used against you, which is why an attorney is essential.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Calabasas, 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 right away at (800) 755-5174.

What is a "wobbler" offense in California?


A wobbler is an offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor's discretion. Several theft-related offenses — such as grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. One of the most important things a theft crimes attorney can do is push for misdemeanor treatment of wobbler charges, which dramatically reduces potential consequences.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


It depends, but it is not always the case. Many theft cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail time through diversion programs, probation, community service, or fines. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. The answer depends heavily on your specific charge, criminal history, and the quality of your legal representation. Contact our firm to understand what options you have.

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


Unfortunately, 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 or not you committed theft is irrelevant — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. As a result, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is central to burglary defense.

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Looking for a Calabasas, CA, Theft Lawyer? Call Our Firm Now.

You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Calabasas, CA, legal system. Our attorneys are prepared to defend you — no matter when you need us. You can call our attorneys today to start building your defense.

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