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Theft Lawyer Canoga Park, CA. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they're facing criminal charges. It's easy to feel lost when you're up against theft charges. Without help, it's easy to find yourself in a spot where you feel hopeless.

Even when you're at your lowest point, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our lawyers have the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Canoga Park, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team at your side, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.

Discuss your case with a theft crimes 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.

How a Canoga Park, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

Theft crime accusations are always a big deal, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to navigate a complicated legal system and make it more likely that you'll face the following:

1. Prison Sentence: Canoga Park, 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. Career Setbacks: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
4. Reputational Damage: You can face unfair and unjust labels that get in the way of your moving on with your life.
5. And more.

A Canoga Park, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley . Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:

Why You Should Hire Our Canoga Park, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

Working with our expert Canoga Park, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what set us apart — and how it will impact your case:

• Former District Attorneys & Judges — We know exactly how the state builds a theft case because some of our attorneys have done it themselves. We know what weaknesses to exploit.
• Extensive Court Relationships — Decades of practice in Canoga Park, CA, courts means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures — and we leverage that for better outcomes for every client.
• Prepared to Fight Your Case at Trial — Misdemeanor or felony, we build your defense to be trial-ready. This not only ensures that we're prepared, but also helps us secure more favorable plea deals or get your case dismissed.
• Record Expungement Services — Even after the fact, we're still here to help. We offer record clearing and expungement services to help you move on and protect your future career and opportunities.
• Superb Reputation – We deliver results, and are known for doing so.
• Always Availalbe — We know that arrests don't happen on a schedule. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
• Totally Private — You can trust us with everything about your case. We won't judge — we're just here to build the strongest case possible.

Theft Charges We Will Fight in Canoga Park, CA

Use the links below to navigate directly to a full breakdown of the law, consequences, and more.

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

Canoga Park, CA, Theft Allegations We Defend Against

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we're experienced in defending against charges of theft. If you need a theft crimes lawyer in Canoga Park, CA, don't hesitate: Reach out now for a free, confidential consultation.

We cover all of the following types of charges and more:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

California breaks down most theft crimes into two categories: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property when you weren't allowed to. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: If it was $950 or less, the charges will generally be petty theft, while higher values will ordinarily be grand theft.

Fighting petty theft charges is usually easier because the potential penalties are less severe (it's normally charged as a misdemeanor). However, defending grand theft charges pose a greater obstacle, because they are frequently charged as felonies. Regardless of what you're up against, 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

Proposition 47 was passed in 2014, defining and setting penalties for shoplifting. Prior to 2014, it was actually considered a form of burglary, instead of a distinct crime. 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. 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 Canoga Park, 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) is increasingly prosecuted aggressively by Canoga Park, CA, prosecutors following recent state legislation.

Shoplifting Potential Penalties:

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

Defensive strategies include: Lack of intent to steal, wrong identity, entrapment by loss prevention, Fourth Amendment violations during detention, 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 Canoga Park, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.

To activate this sentencing enhancement, the Canoga Park, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the defendant performed petty theft; and (2) the suspect has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — especially if the sentence included incarceration. 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.

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: Previous theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions

Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Canoga Park, CA

There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Canoga Park, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a law of its own. Grand theft auto is a smaller part of the state's 'grand theft' law, which states that anyone who steals an automobile (regardless of its value) can be charged with grand theft.

Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're probably going to be charged with joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in Canoga Park, 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. Just like receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Simply owning or holding onto the vehicle can result in these charges.

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Contact us today to start defending your rights.

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

Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — all automobile thefts fall under the umbrella of "grand theft" in the state. 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).

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Canoga Park, 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. This is because § 10851 applies whether or not the alleged offender was going to return the automobile. If you deprive someone of their vehicle with any intentions, this law applies.

Grand theft auto is a more serious offense, but is also harder for prosecutors to secure convictions for. Because of this, they often use § 10851 instead.

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding is a similar charge to grand theft auto, with one key difference: The alleged offender was going to give the car back. 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 Canoga Park, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.

It's typical for joyriding to be treated as a misdemeanor in Canoga Park, CA. However, prior criminal history or aggravating circumstances can push it to a felony.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

Carjacking is one of the most serious vehicle-related charges in California. The key element of carjacking is how the vehicle was allegedly stolen — if force or fear was used, the Canoga Park, CA prosecutor is likely going to pick carjacking over another offense. Because of the violent element, carjacking is always a felony and is not eligible for probation in many circumstances.

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.

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

Many people are shocked to learn they can be convicted of a theft-related crime without actually having stolen anything. 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 prosecution 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 Defend in Canoga Park, CA

White collar crimes in Canoga Park, CA, vary widely in context and action, but all of them have one thing in common: taking advantage of one's position within an organization to benefit oneself, illegally.

Most white collar crimes center around taking or hiding money in some way. 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 is taking money that was otherwise gotten illegally and trying to disguise it as something that was earned legally. Meanwhile, bribery is about illegal gifts done for a favor or another benefit. An example of this would be an employee giving money to their boss in exchange for a promotion.

Not all white-collar crimes involve financial exchanges, though (at least at face value). Forgery can be as simple as signing another person's signature without permission, 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, Identity Theft, Fraud & More

It's easy to think that white collar accusations aren't taken as seriously as violent crimes in Canoga Park, CA, but you'd be wrong. The punishments can be dire — incarceration, financial penalties, major career setbacks, and permanent reputational damage. These cases require attorneys with deep financial and legal sophistication.

White Collar Crimes — Synopsis

The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal benefit. It's common for white collar crime cases in Canoga Park, CA, to require specialized experts on both the prosecution and defensive sides.

White collar cases are often investigated for months or even years before charges are filed. 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. Pre-charge representation can sometimes prevent an indictment entirely.

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 — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

Common contexts: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; 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, professional consequences

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 ordinarilly involves three steps: placement (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (the dirty money is moved multiple times within the financial system to make it hard to follow), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).

California's money laundering statute aims at transactions higher than $5,000 that involved illegally obtained funds, so long as the person involved knew they were illegal. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, carrying sentences up to 20 years.

Possible 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 a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of government officials, judges, lawmakers, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever form of bribery you've been accused of, a Canoga Park, CA, theft crimes lawyer is critical to give you insights into successful defense strategies.

What if they didn't accept the bribe? Whether you offered or accepted a bribe, you could face charges in Canoga Park, CA. Attempted bribery charges are even possible, if one person tries to bribe another, and the second person refuses 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

Canoga Park, CA, forgery charges don't directly involve theft, but instead the creation or modification of a document in order to aid with a future fraud attempt. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers checks, money orders, stock certificates, deeds, power of attorney documents, court orders, notary public symbols, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.

What if I didn't steal anything with it? 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 forged document, is enough for a conviction.

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 Canoga Park, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

What if it didn't affect them financially? You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply obtaining and using someone else's information without authorization is enough to trigger criminal charges under California law. Because of this, you need to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the specifics of your situation.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Canoga Park, CA, and frequently involve federal charges if the internet was involved, or the supposed victim and alleged offender were in different states.

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 Canoga Park, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in Canoga Park, CA. Generally speaking, someone who commits theft by lying about something so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is is one of the more common version of fraud.

Insurance fraud is a popular type of fraud in Canoga Park, CA, wherein someone lies on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, a person who intentionally burns down their house then tells the insurance company that it was an accident commits insurance fraud.

A similar fraud charge is welfare fraud, where a person lies about their current circumstances to receive extra assistance from the government. An example of this would be pretending that one's income is lower than it actually is in order to receive food stamps.

Another notable 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. Maybe it's stolen, expired, or fake, but the bottom line is that the card was not supposed to be used in this way.

An expert theft crimes lawyer in Canoga Park, CA, can help you navigate the differences between all of these fraud charges, and try to find a deal that gives you the best outcome possible.

Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

Fraud charges in Canoga Park, CA, cover a vast range of conduct — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. 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

Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in Canoga Park. These allegations are used when a person lies to someone else, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. 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: Selling a product that doesn't exist; pretending to be a tech support assistant; 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

Insurance fraud involves knowingly making a false or misleading statement to an insurance company to obtain benefits, payments, or compensation you are not entitled to receive. The Canoga Park, 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 defend your freedom and analyze all the evidence to help you find the best outcome possible

Common forms include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; 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: Loss of professional licenses

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

Credit card fraud charges in Canoga Park, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. This includes using another person's card without consent, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or fraudulently acquiring or selling card account information.

Note on 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 some part of the alleged crime occurred online. You're more likely to face harsh penalties from the federal charges, increasing the importance of having a leading theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of both state and national law.

Possible 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; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; Trading or selling food stamps; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.

These crimes often have special investigation teams that target alleged offenders. If convicted, you could be looking at years in prison and serious financial consequences. A premier Canoga Park, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and greatly improve your case's outlook.

Possible Penalties:

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

Additional: Lose your right to receive benefits in the future

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 person being treated must be predicted to pass away within half a year if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — it's common for the prosecution to allege that the patient's condition did not meet this criteria in these cases.

This type of fraud is more often alleged towards providers over patients. Because healthcare professionals have more access to control billing and provide diagnoses, they are at higher risk of being accused of hospice fraud. Canoga Park, 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: Hospice fraud investigations frequently involve parallel criminal and civil proceedings. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. 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 encompasses a broad range of conduct involving the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the Medicare program. In Canoga Park, CA, Medicare fraud charges are normally conducted in federal court, rather than by the local prosecutor. You need a theft lawyer who operates at a high level to protect you from these charges.

While both providers and receivers of care can be convicted of medicare fraud, it's most often providers who are accused. This is especially devastating because of its career impact: you can lose your license and be excluded from working in a healthcare program. Because Medicare billing data is centrally maintained, federal agents can identify statistical anomalies and billing patterns across thousands of claims — meaning investigations often begin long before a provider is aware they are being scrutinized.

Critical Note: 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: Mandatory exclusion from 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. These allegations apply in broader situations than Medicare, including when a non-governmental insurance agency is involved.

Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California law specifically outlaws situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. Without an expert Canoga Park, CA theft lawyer, you could be stuck trying to sift through mountains of medical billing records and other specialized evidence on your own. Healthcare providers, billing companies, office managers, and clerical staff have all faced prosecution depending on their level of involvement.

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, like other health care fraud types, also consists of making false statements to an insurance or government health care entity. The difference is that it describes specific types of healthcare services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. In order to be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, the care recipient must be homebound and require specialized 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 Canoga Park, CA. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Critical Note: The Physician Self-Referral Law (Stark Law, 42 U.S.C. § 1395nn) prohibits physicians from referring Medicare patients to home health entities in which they have a financial interest. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — to make matters worse, you can be convicted of violating this law even if you unintentionally broke it.

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 Defend in Canoga Park, CA

There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in Canoga Park, CA. This can be the case when you're accused of robbery. Robbery occurs when one person threatens or attacks someone in order to take something from them. As opposed to burglary, the alleged theft occurred away from the alleged victim. Carjacking is to grand theft auto what robbery is to burglary.

However, some thefts which did not start out violent can end up involving violence. 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. This doesn't always need to include physical violence, but it can consist of any form of harm to the victim, including emotional or reputational. As an example, if a person would commit extortion if she saw a man commit a crime, and threatened to turn him in if he didn't pay her.

Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft

If you allegedly threatened or attacked someone in the course of committing theft, your case is even more serious. You're almost guaranteed to be facing felony charges. Your Canoga Park, 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

Robbery is taking property from another person directly, using force or fear. This is the key distinction from burglary — the victim must be present. Being convicted of robbery will likely result in a prison sentence as well as a strike.

Your robbery charge in Canoga Park, CA, could either be first-degree or second-degree. These are differentiated based on the location and the alleged victim. First-degree robbery is charged in cases where the alleged robbery occurred in someone's dwelling place, against the passenger or driver of a taxi/rideshare vehicle, or while the supposed victim was at an ATM.

Potential 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

If it's alleged that you threatened someone in order to make them give you money or favors, you are likely facing extortion charges. The threat does not have to be of physical violence; threatening to reveal embarrassing or damaging information is sufficient.

Common examples: Threatening to report someone for a crime unless paid; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.

Potential Penalties:

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

Burglary Charges We Defend in Canoga Park, CA

Burglary is often charged along with theft in Canoga Park, 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. This is commonly a building, like a retail store (in which case it would be 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.

Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Because of this, what you were allegedly planning to do in a location can be just as important as how you got access to it.

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. However, after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. One key reform was distinguishing shoplifting as a specific misdemeanor offense and preventing it from being charged as burglary (a "wobbler" that could be a felony) in qualifying cases.

Vandalism also shares many qualities with burglary. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by kicking in a door to in order to steal from the building. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in Canoga Park, CA, heightening your need for a top quality theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

Finally, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in Canoga Park, CA. How does this happen? 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

California burglary law is broader than most people realize — 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

First-degree burglary involves entering an inhabited dwelling — someone's home, apartment, or any place where people live — with the intent to commit a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. The intent at the moment of entry is the key to burglary charges.

Residential burglary 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 Canoga Park, 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 available for first-degree
• Fines: Up to $10,000

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

Although less serious than first-degree burglary, second-degree burglary (AKA commercial burglary) charges are still not to be taken lightly. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.

Your theft crimes lawyer in Canoga Park, CA will need to be acutely aware of the difference between shoplifting and commercial burglary — this could be key in getting your charges reduced, if possible.

Possible 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. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.

Important note: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. 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

At the intersection of burglary and violent crimes are home invasion charges. Canoga Park, 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.

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 defense attorneys that can give you top-quality service, and you need them immediately.

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 & Related Offenses

Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing

These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. Your Canoga Park, 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

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. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items at a great deal, without receipts, or from unknown sellers, does not prove that you were aware the items were stolen.

Potential Penalties:

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

Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594

Vandalism is the malicious defacement, damage, or destruction of another person's property. It is often charged alongside burglary when, for example, a window is broken to gain entry to a home or vehicle. It also applies to graffiti, which is one of the most commonly prosecuted forms of vandalism in Canoga Park, CA.

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

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
• Other Common Penalties: 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.

Without compounding charges, trespassing is typically charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, when combined with other charges (particularly burglary), the trespassing element can be used to establish elements of more serious offenses. 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

Intentionally providing false information to the authorities can result in a perjury charge. While this is not a theft crime per se, it's frequently charged in conjunction with them. This is because it's common for alleged offenders to be dishonest about information that could make them look guilty, not realizing that misleading the police can actually make things worse in the end.

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

Not all alleged thefts are treated equally; in the cases listed below, you can face harsher penalties and elevated charges. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to be prepared to battle for your freedom. And at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we are.

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. Because of this the theft of even a low-value firearm will end up with a felony charge. Firearm theft can have long-lasting implications, beyond most other theft offenses — this is because it counts as a strike on your record.

As if fighting the charges in your local Canoga Park, CA court weren't bad enough, you could also find yourself up against federal charges. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more important to have an attorney who is able to protect you from even the toughest opponents.

Possible 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

Vulnerable adults, notably people 65 and older, are given extra protection in the California legal system. Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) occurs when someone takes, conceals, appropriates, obtains, or retains money or property from an elder by undue influence, fraud, or other wrongful conduct.

The prosecution in Canoga Park, CA, does not take these charges lightly and usually pursues harsh penalties. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. Civil liability and restitution orders frequently accompany criminal proceedings, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.

Common scenarios: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member doesn't provide an agreed upon level of care; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; impostor pretends to be a law enforcement official.

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

Disasters can be a time of panic. If, during the confusion, someone attempts to get away with theft, they may face looting charges. While theft and burglary are the root charges behind the action, looting increases the penalties significantly.

If the enhanced penalties weren't enough on their own, the Canoga Park, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. These acts are viewed as particularly heinous, and penalties can be severe. If you allegedly broke into a business building during a wildfire and took some of its merchandise, you could face looting allegations.

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) 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 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.

Attempted burglary and attempted robbery are still strike offenses in California. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.

Regardless of what charge you're facing, when you contact our firm, you can talk to an expert theft crimes lawyer in Canoga Park, CA, who has the training and experience needed to find a path forward. Together, we will fight for the best outcomes possible in your case.

Steps to Take When Accused of Theft

Theft allegations are just the tip of the iceberg. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, the alleged victim is accusing you, and a conviction could derail your life. When you're alone, it can seem impossible.

But you're not alone. When you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you get premier California legal representation on your case. When you work with us, you will get a Canoga Park, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. Here are the steps we recommend taking:

1. Do Not Resist Arrest

Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. Be polite and respectful during the process. Resisting can only get you into more trouble.

2. Remain Calm and Don't Talk

You may be questioned by the police – invoke your right to remain silent. In fact, don't even talk on the ride to the station. Your answers can later be used as evidence in the case, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

3. Call a Canoga Park, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP

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. The sooner you hire an expert to help with your case, the better your chances are for a positive outcome. You can reach us at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Secure Bail for Release

Your lawyer can help argue for your release at a bail hearing. Our firm's theft crimes defense attorneys will argue against the prosecution for your release. We believe that protecting your freedom now is a part of protecting it for the long term.

5. Cooperate With Your Attorney to Build Your Defense

Finally, you work with your attorney to craft a strong defense. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in Canoga Park, CA, will listen to your story, negotiate with the state, and argue for a dismissal wherever possible.

Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges

Every theft case is different — and every defense strategy must be customized to the specific details, circumstances, and charges. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Canoga Park, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

Lack of intent is a common criminal defense strategy, and is particularly applicable in theft cases. All theft offenses under California law require that the defendant acted with specific intent to steal — that is, to permanently deprive another person of their property. 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 (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).

Key point: The prosecution bears the burden of proving criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt — the defendant does not have to prove innocence. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. May defenses against stealing allegations will incorporate intent to some degree, especially in cases involving disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.

Defense Application:

• 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 Canoga Park, CA, police department will gather evidence through searches. If searches violated constitutional requirements, the evidence can be suppressed and the district attorney may need to drop charges.

Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: 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 at the time of the arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without appropriate legal authority; and searches that go beyond the scope of a valid 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.

If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. 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 Canoga Park, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft 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, 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: Evidence derived from an illegal search may also be excluded

False Accusation / Misidentification

Innocent people are charged with theft crimes more often than the public realizes. False accusations can result from personal arguments, witnesses mistaking the defendant for someone else, mistaken assumptions about ownership, ambiguous surveillance footage, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. Even if you're innocent, you're still at risk of going to prison for something you didn't do — without a strong defensive strategy, you're gambling with your freedom.

False accusations in Canoga Park, CA, often aren't the result of malice, but of a witness making an error. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, the high intensity of the circumstances can lead to witnesses not remembering details clearly — especially across racial lines, under poor lighting conditions, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. California courts have increasingly recognized this science, and jury instructions now require courts to instruct juries on the inherent limitations of eyewitness identification evidence.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: establishing an alibi with corroborating witnesses, records, or surveillance footage; challenging the reliability of the identification procedure used by law enforcement (photo arrays, live lineups, show-ups); attacking the character of the person making the allegations; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and challenging inconsistencies between different statements and testimony between witnesses.

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 an attorney present. You might make a mistake, or the police might misinterpret something you say. Whatever your circumstances, if you're facing theft charges, call our lawyers now for help.

Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, 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 regarding your use of the property is a strong defense in Canoga Park, CA, theft cases. 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.

Rights Violations — We won't presume that all the evidence collected for your case is legitimate — we'll review everything and look for opportunities to have the evidence against you removed.

Sentencing Alternatives — In many cases with offenders with no prior offenses, 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.

Disputing the Value of Property — In many cases, your charges are determined by how much was allegedly taken. Lower amounts lead to lesser charges. We challenge inflated or unsupported property valuations, which can dramatically reduce the charges you face.

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, individuals who have successfully completed probation for a misdemeanor or felony theft conviction may petition the court to dismiss the charges and withdraw their guilty or no contest plea — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully completed all terms of probation, including fines and restitution; not currently be charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for any other offense; and — as a more recent restriction — in many cases, must not have spent time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. Arguably, the best cases are those which were dismissed without any form of conviction. In these cases, instead of expunging the conviction, the arrest record can be sealed.

Expungement under § 1203.4 carries meaningful practical benefits: Of note, an expunged conviction generally does not need to be disclosed on private employment applications under state law. That said, 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) even automates part of the expungement process in some cases, if there haven't been any subsequent criminal cases.

Critical Note: While expungement under § 1203.4 offers many benefits, it doesn't make the record go away entirely; it can still be viewed by the police, licensing boards, and be used in future criminal cases. If your goal is the total removal of the record, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, a more comprehensive post-conviction strategy is required. Consulting with an experienced attorney before pursuing any post-conviction relief is strongly advisable.

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: 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 Canoga Park, CA

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Canoga Park, California?


What you are charged with is primarily determined by how much whatever was supposedly taken was worth. Anything $950 and under should be a petty theft charge, which is often a misdemeanor. Property valued above $950 — or involving specific categories like firearms or vehicles — is grand theft (a wobbler that can be a misdemeanor or 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.

Does California allow me to expunge my record from a theft crime?


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. Your theft crimes lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to explore this as an option for your case and walk you through the process if so.

What happens if I'm charged with shoplifting for the first time in Canoga Park, CA?


First-time shoplifting charges in California are typically misdemeanors under Proposition 47 (for amounts under $950). 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 make a major difference and help you with 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 weren't aware and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. We often use this as a way to protect our clients from accusations. That said, circumstances like strangely good deal or no documentation of ownership can erode your case, which is why an attorney is essential.

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


Extremely. In Canoga Park, CA, grand theft auto is almost always prosecuted as a felony, which means potential prison time (up to three years), fines up to $10,000, and a felony record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have any prior convictions, you are at risk of harsher penalties. Call us immediately if you're facing this charge.

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. A large portion of 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?


Not necessarily. Canoga Park, 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 answer depends heavily on your specific charge, criminal history, and the quality of your legal representation. Contact us to review what options exist in your case.

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


Yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether you actually took anything is irrelevant — if prosecutors can prove you entered with criminal intent, you can be convicted of burglary even if you left empty-handed. Because of this, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is central to burglary defense.

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Up Against Theft Charges in Canoga Park, CA? Call Right Away.

You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Canoga Park, CA, legal system. Our attorneys are ready to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Contact us now for a free, confidential case review.

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