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Theft Lawyer Cerritos, CA. When you are charged with a crime in Cerritos, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Theft charges in particular can be complex because of the wide variety of them. Without help, it's easy to find yourself in a spot where you feel hopeless.

Even when you're up against the toughest battle of your life, don't give up yet. You have a team who will defend your freedom: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our legal team has the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team on your case, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.

Talk to a theft crimes lawyer now at (800) 755-5174 or use our contact form for a free, confidential consultation. Waiting too long to reach out can cost you everything.

The Importance of a Theft Lawyer in Cerritos, CA

Theft crime accusations are always a big deal, no matter what the specifics are. On your own, you're stuck trying to navigate a convoluted legal code and potentially set yourself up for the below consequences:

1. Prison Sentence: Cerritos, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
2. Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
3. Loss of Employmnet: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
4. Stained Reputation: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
5. And more.

A Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. 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

Not every criminal defense firm is created equal. Here's what set us apart — and why it matters for your theft case:

• Former District Attorneys & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We use that inside knowledge to dismantle the prosecution's strategy.
• Deep Court Relationships — Decades of practice in Cerritos, CA, courts means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures — and we leverage that for better outcomes for every client.
• Defenses Built for 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.
• Terrific Reputation – We are renowned professionally and by clients.
• Ready for Your Call Right Away — We know that arrests don't happen on a schedule. If you need a theft crime attorney, you shouldn't need to wait for regular business hours. And with our team, you don't have to.
• Completely Private — Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client privilege. Speak freely — we need the full story to build the strongest possible defense for you.

Every Theft Charge We Defend in Cerritos, CA

Click any charge below to jump 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

Cerritos, CA, Theft Allegations We Defend Against

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we're experienced in defending against charges of theft. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in Cerritos, CA, don't hesitate: contact us now for a no obligation review of your case.

Below are some of the main theft crime accusations we fight against in Cerritos, CA:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

While there are many different theft case types in Cerritos, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. At a basic level, these are almost the same act: taking someone else's money or items without permission. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: For values $950 and under, the classification will generally be petty theft, while any more will typically 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, defending grand theft charges pose a greater obstacle, because they are frequently charged as felonies. In either case, a skillful theft crimes lawyer can help you minimize penalties.

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

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

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

Before Prop 47, what we now call "shoplifting" was prosecuted as burglary — a felony. Since 2014, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. That said, felony charges can still be applied in certain situations, like an organized shoplifting ring. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local Cerritos, CA theft crimes lawyer can help protect you from the worst consequences.

Organized retail theft (either a crime ring or repeated instances of shoplifting) is an elevated form of shoplifting that has been a recent focus in California, and is often charged as a felony.

Shoplifting Possible Penalties:

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

Potential defenses include: No intention 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. Not every prior offense in Cerritos, CA, qualifies for these enhancement, but if you have any prior convictions on your record, it's critical to work with an expert theft lawyer to defend you.

To charge PC § 666, the state must establish: (1) the suspect is guilty of petty theft; and (2) the suspect 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. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. 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.

Potential Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Cerritos, CA

There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Cerritos, CA. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's actually not its own charge. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection of the state's 'grand theft' law, which universally characterizes stealing a vehicle as 'grand theft', even if it wasn't worth more than $950.

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 defendant did intend to return it, they're more likely to be charged with joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, in Cerritos, CA, grand theft auto is normally charged as a felony, while joyriding is normally a misdemeanor.

You can even face criminal charges without having committed an act of theft; How so? Through "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. Just owning or keeping the vehicle can get you arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle.

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

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. 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).

Potential Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Cerritos, 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 — sometimes called "joyriding" broadly — is often charged alongside or instead of grand theft auto. Unlike grand theft auto, this statute does not require intent to permanently deprive the owner. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.

This is one of the most broadly written vehicle theft statutes in California, and prosecutors use it frequently because it's easier to prove than grand theft auto.

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 Cerritos, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.

It's typical for joyriding to be treated as a misdemeanor in Cerritos, CA. That said, you could face felony charges if you have a criminal record, or the prosecutor thought the action was particularly bad.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

Carjacking is one of the most serious vehicle-related charges in California. It is defined as taking a motor vehicle from another person through force or fear — essentially a robbery of a car. Due to the violent nature of the crime, 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

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

This charge 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 you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — and that's often where your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can challenge the case.

Possible Penalties:

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

White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in Cerritos, CA

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

Most white collar crimes are defined by how money is transferred. Embezzlement is the theft of money someone was supposed to manage for others, like an investment banker taking from a client's account. 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 occurs when someone gives another person a gift in order to receive a favor, in a way that violates laws or regulations.

Not all white-collar crimes are transactional in nature, though (at least at face value). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information. You can face either of these charges without having taken money from the alleged victim.

Forgery, Money Laundering, Fraud & More

Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — incarceration, financial penalties, major career setbacks, and long-lasting stains on your reputation. These cases require attorneys with deep financial and legal sophistication.

White Collar Crimes — Overview

Individual "white collar crimes" can look very different from each other. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal gain. These cases are some of the most complicated in Cerritos, CA, and normally require highly experienced representation to defend.

White collar cases are often investigated for months or even years before charges are filed. 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 — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering involves taking money gained from a different crime and disguising it as being honestly earned. It typically consists of three steps: placement (bringing the illegally-obtained money into the economy), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), 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. Federal money laundering charges (18 U.S.C. § 1956) can also apply, which tends to have much harsher penalties.

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 criminalizes bribery in many contexts — government officials, judges, legislators, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Whatever the specifics of your case, a Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer is important to advise you on how to address these charges.

Who can face bribery charges? Whether you offered or accepted a bribe, you could face charges in Cerritos, CA. Even an attempt to bribe can result in criminal charges, regardless of whether the other party accepts.

Possible 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

Cerritos, 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's forgery statute is broad and covers checks, money orders, stock certificates, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, court orders, notary public symbols, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.

Who can face forgery charges? Whether or not you allegedly did something with the forgery is irrelevant. Just the plan to commit fraud, combined with the creation or use of the false 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 Cerritos, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, including obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

Crucially: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply taking and using another person's information without a legal reason is enough to trigger criminal charges under California law. Because of this, you need to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the details of your case.

Cerritos, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and often 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 Defend in Cerritos, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in Cerritos, CA. Broadly speaking, a person who commits theft by acting dishonestly so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.

Insurance fraud is a specific variation where a person allegedly lies on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, after a car accident, a person who lies about how much damage was caused to get a bigger payout is guilty of insurance fraud.

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

Another common form 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.

An expert theft crimes lawyer in Cerritos, 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.

Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

There are many types of fraud allegations in Cerritos, CA — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. 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

Theft by false pretenses — the foundational fraud offense — occurs when a person tricks another person through disonest means, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. Theft by false pretenses is distinct because the supposed victim intentionally parts with their valuables, as opposed to robbery, where they are taken by force.

Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; pretending to be a tech support assistant; creating fake invoices; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.

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

Lying to an insurance company to receive a payout or other benefit is insurance fraud. Insurance fraud charges are always a big deal, and are often felonies in Cerritos, CA. A leading theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and explore all avenues to help you find the best outcome possible

Common examples include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing false theft reports; inflating repair cost claims; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; workers' compensation fraud; double billing for a health service.

Possible Penalties:

• Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
• Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
• Additional: License revocation for professionals

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

Credit card fraud charges in Cerritos, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. You could be accused of using another individual's card without permission, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or illegally acquiring or selling card account information.

Regarding federal charges: You are likely to face both federal and 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

Charges of welfare fraud in Cerritos, 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; misrepresenting household composition; Trading or selling food stamps; pretending that a child is still a dependent when they are not; 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. Your leading Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and greatly improve your case's outlook.

Potential Penalties:

• Under $950 (most often): 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 qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, the person being treated must be predicted to pass away within half a year if the illness runs its normal course — a threshold that fraudulent providers routinely falsify.

While highly unfortunate, hospice fraud allegations can arise from misunderstandings on the part of the patient's family. Grieving family members can erroneously blame health care professionals who were dedicated to helping their patients. And as if it weren't bad enough going up against the Cerritos, CA, government, you're likely to face federal charges and accusations from federal investigators.

Critical Note: 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.

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)
• 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. In Cerritos, 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. 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.

Warning: The United States also has a law (the Anti-Kickback Statute – 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) which makes it a form of Medicare fraud to offer payment for Medicare-related referrals. 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. Critically, the statute applies to all health benefit programs, not just Medicare and Medicaid — including private commercial insurers.

Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California's statute specifically outlaws false or misleading statements made in connection with insurance claims, including the submission of multiple claims for a single loss and the preparation of false medical reports. Health care fraud cases in Cerritos, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Doctors, billing companies, office workers, and clerks have all faced prosecution depending on their level of involvement.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Home health fraud, 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 — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. To qualify for Medicare reimbursement, 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. 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 Cerritos, CA. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Critical Note: The United States' Stark Law makes it a crime for a doctor to refer a medicare patient to a home health company, if the doctor makes money from that company. Outside of the criminal case, you can face fines, need to pay restitution, and be excluded from Medicare — 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 Cerritos, CA

There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in Cerritos, 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. Versus burglary, the alleged theft occurred away from the alleged victim. Carjacking is to grand theft auto what robbery is to burglary.

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

Extortion is a unique form of theft. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. 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. These charges are always felonies and often carry strike designations. It's essential to get a theft crimes lawyer in Cerritos, CA to protect your freedom.

Robbery — California Penal Code § 211

Robbery is a violent form of theft that involves either threatening or assaulting someone in order to take their belongings. Being convicted of robbery will likely result in a prison sentence as well as a strike.

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 report someone to immigration authorities unless paid; threatening to damage someone's storefront unless they pay "protection money;" threatening to deny someone a rightful certification unless special favors are given.

Potential Penalties:

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

Burglary Charges We Defend in Cerritos, CA

Burglary charges in Cerritos, CA, are distinct from theft, but often go hand-in-hand. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft or commit another crime. This is commonly a structure, like a convenience store (in which case it would be commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly broke a car window to 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, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Because of this, these cases can often hinge on if you were allowed to be in the location or not.

Burglary Related Charges

Shoplifting is closely related to commercial burglary. In fact, before 2014, what you think of as shoplifting would be classified as burglary under California law. However, after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. 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 Cerritos, 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 breaking a window to burglarize someone's home. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Cerritos, CA, doubling the importance of working with an expert theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.

Lastly, there is a theft charge you can be accused of in Cerritos, CA, even if you didn't steal something. 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

California burglary law is broader than most people realize — these charges apply when someone tresspasses on a property while planning to break the law, though it doesn't have to be a theft law specifically.

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

The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence 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 what matters.

This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and Cerritos, CA courts are likely to give you a long sentence. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle

Possible Penalties:

• Prison Sentence: 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 is someones called "commercial burglary" because it also involves entering a location with the intent to steal or commit a felony, but as opposed to first-degree burglary, the location is non-residential. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.

Your theft crimes lawyer in Cerritos, 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.

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. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.

Key distinction: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, but for it to be burglary, the vehicle must have been protected.

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

If you're accused of breaking into a home and threatening or hurting the people inside, that would fall under home invasion charges. Cerritos, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. It's even more important to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer than usual in these cases.

As with other burglary charges, home invasion burglary charges don't tend to exist in a vacuum — you're likely also facing other theft or violent crimes charges. If you are up against home invasion charges, you need a law firm with a track record of success, and you need them now.

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. You need a Cerritos, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

You don't have to steal something to face theft-related criminal charges. 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.

These cases often hinge on your mental state — namely, whether or not you were (or should have been) aware that the item was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items at an unusually low price, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.

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 Cerritos, CA.

While many theft charges become felonies if more than $950 is stolen, a vandalism charge can become a felony if just $400 or more worth of damage is done.

Possible Penalties:

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

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

Trespassing involves entering or remaining on another person's property without permission. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.

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

Perjury charges aren't unique to theft crimes, but are commonly seen alongside them. You can be found guilty of perjury if you lie to the police or during a trial. In theft cases, this can occur if you were interviewed by the police and stated you did not know where any of the stolen property was, even if you did.

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.

Possible 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)

Under California Penal Code § 487(d)(2), theft of a firearm is always grand theft — regardless of the weapon's monetary value. Because of this stealing even a nearly worthless firearm will end up with a felony charge. On top of that, a grand theft of a firearm felony can count for a strike on your criminal record if convicted.

As if fighting the charges in your local Cerritos, 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 with the skills to fight for you at all levels.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

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.

This offense is aggressively prosecuted in Cerritos, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. This is further exacerbated if the alleged victim is 70 or older, which can lead to increased penalties. In addition to the legal penalties, you could also face a civil suit, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.

Common scenarios: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member using power of attorney to take money; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.

Possible Penalties:

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

Looting — California Penal Code § 463

During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. 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 Cerritos, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Cerritos while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. Looting of a business that is closed due to a civil disturbance, or taking property from an evacuated residence, commonly triggers these charges.

Potential Penalties (Enhanced):

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

Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery

Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Cerritos, CA. An attempt requires: (1) the specific intent to commit the crime, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — regardless of whether it was successful or not.

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.

California's Three Strikes law doesn't provide any leeway if someone attempted to commit a crime unsuccessfully — robbery attempts and burglary attempts are still strikes, whether or not they were successful. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.

Regardless of what charge you're facing, when you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you can speak with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Cerritos, CA, who will listen to your side of the story and build a defense around that. As a team, we will fight for the best outcomes possible in your case.

Steps to Take When Accused of Theft

You need to take these accusations seriously. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, you could be facing major legal consequences, and a conviction could derail your life. Trying to handle it yourself, the odds can seem insurmountable.

But you have an ally. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help. When you work with us, you will get a Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. Here are the steps we recommend taking:

1. Comply With the Police

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

2. Stay Calm and Don't Talk

You may be questioned by the police – invoke your right to remain silent. 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 you say something untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

3. Contact a Cerritos, 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. Acting fast is important to protect your freedom. You can reach us at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

4. Secure Bail for Release

Before you can leave the jail, you'll probably have to go through a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will 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. Coordinate With Your Attorney to Build Your Defense

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

Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges

Your case is unique — and your defense strategy must be tailored to the specific details, circumstances, and accusations. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Cerritos, 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. Your mindset is key to this defense. Unintentionally taking another person's goods does not qualify as theft, generally. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.

A related defense is the "claim of right" defense, where someone states that they believed they were allowed to take the property. This applies as long as they honestly believed they were allowed to, even if they were incorrect. 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 include: mistake of fact (the accused took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (the defendant intended to return the property, which may reduce or eliminate a grand theft charge even if another theft offense still applies).

Key point: You don't have to prove your intentions, but you may have to defend them against the prosecution. It's on the state to show that you did have the intent to commit theft at the time of the alleged crime. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. It is often the strongest available defense, particularly in cases involving disagreements regarding property ownership, where one person honestly believed they had a right to use property when they didn't.

Using This Defense:

• Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
• 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 state needs to follow rules when building its case. One critically important one is the 4th Amendment, which stops authorities from performing illegal searches and seizures. In many criminal cases, critical evidence — stolen property, alleged tools of the crime, communications, financial records — is frequently obtained through police searches. If the authorities broke the law, the evidence can be suppressed and the district attorney may be unable to proceed.

Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: searches conducted without either a warrant or just cause; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search at the time of the arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that exceeded the limits of a valid warrant. In Cerritos, CA, your defense attorney can file a motion to throw out any evidence the prosecution acquired through improper means — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.

In some cases, this is all it takes to mount a successful defense against theft charges. Even partial suppression — if the court allows some evidence but not all of it — can substantially change the outcome. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Cerritos, CA, courts, and are an essential tool for the defense when facing theft charges.

Suppression Scenarios:

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

False Accusation / Misidentification

The Cerritos, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can arise from personal disputes, 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. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — you need a Cerritos, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

One of the ways that innocent people are commonly accused in Cerritos, CA is by eyewitnesses mistaking them for the offender. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — most notably across racial lines, in scenarios of poor visibility, or when things moved too fast. Studies consistently show that witness confidence does not correlate with accuracy. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Cerritos, CA, court.

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 accuser; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different statements and testimony between witnesses.

If you are innocent: Do not confront witnesses, do not try to build your defense on your own, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without your theft attorney present. It's easy to say something that seems innocuous but accidentally makes yourself look guilty. Whatever your circumstances, if you're facing theft charges, call our lawyers now for help.

Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the Cerritos, CA, prosecutor must prove you knew the property was obtained through theft. 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 — Consent regarding your use of the property is a strong defense in Cerritos, 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.

Constitutional Violations — Beyond the 4th amendment, we will thoroughly review your case to see if the state violated your rights in the course of the investigation. If they did, we will argue for the evidence to be thrown out and/or for the case to be dismissed.

Sentencing Alternatives — For many offenders with no prior offenses, California offers sentencing alternatives that can keep you out of prison by participating. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.

Contesting the Value of Property — 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

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. Before you can do so, you will likely have to have fit the following critera: 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 — as a more recent restriction — in many cases, must not have served time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

In cases where probation was not granted, a petition under Penal Code § 1203.4a may provide relief after one year has elapsed since conviction. 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.

When you work with a theft lawyer to clear your record, you can look forward to the following perks: In particular, 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 does not restore firearm rights, doesn't prevent the conviction from impacting future cases, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in Cerritos, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.

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 for the record to be totally inaccessible, to be able to legally own a gun again, 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 (available 1 year after the 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 Cerritos, CA

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


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

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


Often, yes. California Penal Code § 1203.4 allows for expungement of misdemeanor and many felony theft convictions after successful completion of probation. Expungement removes the conviction from your public record and allows you to truthfully say you have not been convicted of that crime in most circumstances. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.

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


While this is still serious, you don't need to panic just yet — you will probably only face misdemeanor charges. Many first-time offenders are eligible for diversion programs that can result in a dismissal upon completing community service or a theft prevention course. An attorney 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?


Receiving stolen property (PC § 496) requires that you knew — or had good reason to know — the property was stolen. If you honestly didn't know 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. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or no documentation of ownership can be used against you, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.

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


Very serious. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have any prior convictions, you are at risk of harsher penalties. Call one of our attorneys right away if you're facing this charge.

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. A large portion of theft-related offenses — including 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. While felony charges can be harder to avoid prison for, it is still possible in some cases. The specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Call our firm to understand what options you have.

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


Yes. In California, the actions you take after unlawfully entering a location don't determine a burglary charge. Instead, the state defines burglary as going into a building in order to steal something or break a felony law. Whether you stole something or not is irrelevant — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. This is why intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is critical to burglary defense.

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Need a Theft Defense Attorney in Cerritos, CA? Call to Protect Your Rights.

You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Cerritos, CA, legal system. Our firm is equipped to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.

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