Theft Lawyer Redlands, CA. Being arrested for theft is just the beginning . You might even be facing multiple theft charges at once. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.
Even when all hope seems lost, 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 what it takes to guard your freedom against the prosecution. With a Redlands, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team on your side, you're going to get honest advice on how to get the best outcome possible.
Discuss your case with a theft crimes lawyer today at (800) 755-5174 or send us a note online for a free, confidential consultation. It's easy to get started, and acting fast can mean everything.
How a Redlands, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You
Theft charges need to be treated seriously, no matter what the specifics are. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to decipher a intricate legal code and increase your risk of the following penalties:
- Jail Sentence: Redlands, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
- Fines: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
- Loss of Employmnet: Extended stints in jail can prevent you from doing your job, and cause you to lose it.
- Damaged Character: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
- And more.
A Redlands, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is ready to help. Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
Top Qualities of Our Redlands, CA Theft Defense Attorneys
Working with our expert Redlands, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what you get when you call us — 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 know what weaknesses to exploit.
- Longstanding Court Relationships — With over 50 years of combined courtroom experience, we have built up relationships with the Redlands, CA prosecutors and judges, which we will use when securing plea deals.
- Prepared to Fight Your Case at Trial — We prepare every case as if it's going to trial. Even if your case doesn't end up in trial, this gives us more leverage for negotiations.
- Record Expungement Services — We don't leave you behind after the verdict. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
- Superb Reputation – We are renowned professionally and by clients.
- Always Availalbe — Our team is available whenever you need us most. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
- Completely Confidential — 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 Redlands, CA
Click any charge below to jump directly to a full explanation 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
Major Redlands, CA, Theft Crimes We Defend Against
Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in Redlands, CA, act fast: contact us right away for a free, confidential consultation.
Our lawyers can help you fight all of the following allegations:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
In Redlands, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property without their consent. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: For anything $950 or less, the charges will ordinarily be petty theft, while any more will ordinarily be grand theft.
Defending petty theft allegations often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. Whichever type of charge you're facing, 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:
| Theft Accusation | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Stolen Property Value | $950 or Less | More than $950 |
| Charge Type? | Usually Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor or Felony |
| Misdemeanor Penalties | Up to six months in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines | Up to one year in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines |
| Felony Penalties | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines |
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. Since Proposition 47, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that you could still face felony charges in some circumstances, such as if you have certain previous convictions on your record. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local Redlands, CA theft crimes lawyer can help protect you from the worst consequences.
Organized retail theft (multiple defendants or repeat offenses coordinated to steal from retailers) 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 Sentence: Up to 6 months
- Fines: Up to $1,000
- Civil Demand: Retailers may send civil demand letters
- Other: Probation, banned from store
Defense options consist of: Theft was unintentional, mistake of fact, 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 Redlands, 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.
If you're facing petty theft with a prior allegations, the state must establish: (1) the defendant engaged in petty theft; and (2) the defendant has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. While most of the applicable prior convictions are theft related, they also include some sexual and violent crimes.
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: Prior theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions
Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Redlands, CA
There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Redlands, CA. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a unique charge. Grand theft auto is a smaller part of California's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.
Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. If they were only doing to drive it briefly and then bring it back, they're probably going to face charges of joyriding. While either joyriding or grand theft auto can be 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in Redlands, CA, since the prosecution is more likely to assign that as a misdemeanor.
One final vehicle theft-related charge that some people underestimate is possession of a stolen vehicle. Similar to receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Even just owning or keeping the vehicle can get you arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle.
When you contact our law firm, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Call now to start making your case.
Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)
If you allegedly stole a car, you might expect to face grand theft auto charges. However, grand theft auto does not have its own statute in California — 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.
Grand theft auto charges often hinge on your intentions during the alleged theft — if you were going to bring it back, then it wasn't technically a theft, it was joyriding.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Redlands, 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 one of the main vehicle theft laws in California. This is because § 10851 applies whether or not the alleged offender was going to return the automobile. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.
This charge is popular in Redlands, CA, courts as either a plea deal or as its own charge.
Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. 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 Redlands, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.
In Redlands, CA, joyriding is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor, making it significantly less severe than grand theft auto. However, prior criminal history or aggravating circumstances can push it to a felony.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Main Difference | Return the vehicle afterwards | Keep the vehicle forever |
| Usual Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215
Carjacking is one of the most serious vehicle-related charges in California. It is defined as taking a motor vehicle from another person through force or fear — essentially a robbery of a car. Because of the violent element, carjacking is always a felony and is often ineligible for probation.
A carjacking conviction will also add a "strike" to your criminal record, which can increase future prison sentences.
Potential Penalties:
- Prison: 3, 5, or 9 years in state prison
- Enhancements: Additional years for weapon use or injury
- Three Strikes: Yes — counts as a strike offense
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Possession of a Stolen Vehicle — California Penal Code § 496d
In Redlands, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you have or are storing a car when you knew or should have know it 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 were aware that the vehicle was stolen — and that's often where your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can challenge the case.
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 Redlands, CA
White collar crimes in Redlands, CA, can look very different from each other, but all of them share a common trait: misusing professional power for financial gain.
Many 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 can be done by an individual or an operation, and involves attempts to disguise illegal money as money that was legally earned. Meanwhile, bribery doesn't just involve taking money, but instead consists of one person giving another money in exchange for some sort of benefit.
Not all white-collar crimes involve financial exchanges, though (at least at first glance). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.
Embezzlement, Money Laundering, Bribery & More
White collar crimes carry severe consequences even without physical violence — prison sentences, massive fines, major career setbacks, and permanent reputational damage. To protect yourself against these consequences, it's critical to have a theft crimes lawyer with local experience and expertise in your corner.
White Collar Crimes — Overview
There isn't a set list of "white collar crimes," but they do tend to have some qualities in common, particularly that they are non-violent and are related to one's workplace. These charges will include the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal gain. Redlands, CA, because of its proximity to major financial and entertainment centers, sees some of California's most complex white collar prosecutions.
These charges can seemingly come out of nowhere, as state investigators will take months to years to build a case before filing charges. Call us now if you have any reason to believe the police are looking into you. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.
Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503
Embezzlement is when someone legally can use property for certain purposes, but uses it for different ones. The key element is the pre-existing legal access — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.
Common contexts: An accountant siphoning company funds; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; an employee skimming from cash registers; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.
Possible Penalties:
- Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- Large Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
- Additional: Financial recompensation, employment restrictions
Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10
Money laundering is any way that someone can take 'dirty' money and make it appear 'clean.' It commonly is made up of three stages: placement (introducing dirty money into the financial system), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).
California's money laundering law is set to combat transactions over $5,000 when the alleged offender was aware that the money was dirty. Federal money laundering charges (18 U.S.C. § 1956) can also apply, carrying sentences up to 20 years.
Potential Penalties (State):
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Fines: Up to $250,000 or twice the amount laundered
- Federal Add-On: Up to 20 years federal prison
Bribery — California Penal Code § 67–68 / § 92
Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of elected officials, judges, legislators, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what the specifics of your case, a Redlands, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to protect you from the prosecution.
Important: Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it could face charges in Redlands, 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 ineligibility for office
- Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)
Forgery — California Penal Code § 470
Redlands, 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. State law is broad and covers checks, money orders, contracts, deeds, power of attorney documents, warrants, notary public symbols, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.
What if I didn't steal anything with it? The forgery charges are independent of any related fraud charges, so anyone can be charged even if they didn't use the forged item. Just the plan to commit fraud, combined with the creation or use of the forged 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
In Redlands, CA, identity theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal identifying information — name, Social Security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or other data — for any unlawful purpose, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.
What if it didn't affect them financially? No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Simply taking and using another individual's information without permission is enough to warrant a crime under California statute § 530.5. Because of this, you need to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the specifics of your case.
Redlands, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and frequently involve federal charges for more serious, widespread, or online cases.
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 Redlands, CA
Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Redlands, CA, and it has several subcategories. Generally speaking, someone who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation in order to get another person to give away money voluntarily can be charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.
Insurance fraud is a specific variation where a person allegedly lies to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. As an example, after a car accident, a person who lies about how much damage was caused to get a bigger payout is guilty of insurance fraud.
A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where a person lies about their current circumstances to receive extra assistance from the government. An example of this would be claiming a child as a dependent to receive financial support, when the child has in fact moved out.
Another popular variation is credit card fraud. This type of fraud involves dishonesty about the credit card and/or how it was acquired. Maybe it's stolen, expired, or fake, but the bottom line is that the card was not supposed to be used in this way.
When you're on your own, trying to figure out what fraud charges you're facing can feel impossible. With a leading Redlands, CA theft crimes lawyer, you have someone who can help you navigate through the complexity.
Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception
There are many types of fraud allegations in Redlands, CA — from simple misrepresentations to elaborate financial schemes. These cases are often document-heavy and require a theft crimes lawyer who understands both the law and financial evidence.
Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532
Theft by false pretenses — the foundational fraud offense — occurs when a person lies to someone else, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. The key element is that the victim willingly hands over the property as a result of being deceived.
Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; creating fake invoices; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.
Because the amount defrauded can vary, so does the penalty. It depends on the value of the property obtained through fraud, using the same $950 threshold as petty/grand theft.
Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550
You can face insurance fraud charges for making untruthful statements in reports to your insurance agency, so that they will provide you with a benefit you are not supposed to receive. The Redlands, CA, prosecution takes insurance fraud extremely seriously, and the state has a dedicated Insurance Fraud Division that actively investigates these cases. A leading theft crimes lawyer will protect your rights and negotiation with the prosecutor to help you find the best outcome possible
Typical forms include: Staging or exaggerating auto accidents; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; inflating repair cost claims; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; workers' compensation fraud; double billing for a health service.
Potential Penalties:
- Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
- Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
- Additional: License revocation for professionals
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
You can face credit card fraud charges in Redlands, CA, for a variety of actions done with a credit or debit card. Charges can occur if someone is caught using another individual's card without authorization, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or fraudulently acquiring or selling card account information.
Regarding federal charges: It's common in California credit card fraud cases for there to also be federal charges, especially 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.
Potential Penalties (State):
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Federal Prison: Up to 15 years (federal charges)
Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980
A person commits welfare fraud if they lie about or misrepresent themselves in order to get access to benefits from the government, such as food stamps or medical benefits.
Common examples: Failing to report income; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; using another person's EBT card; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.
Welfare fraud investigations are conducted by county district attorney welfare fraud units and can result in both criminal charges and demands for repayment of all benefits received. Your local Redlands, CA, theft crimes lawyer can help show issues in 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 accusations in Redlands, CA, are very serious. They are often applied to healthcare practitioners who create fake requests for payment or prescribe unneeded treatments related to hospice. To qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, the person being treated must have a projected lifespan of six months or less if the illness runs its normal course — it's common for the prosecution to allege that the patient's condition did not meet this criteria in these cases.
While it's possible for care recipients to face hospice fraud accusations, they are more commonly made against the care provider. Hospice can be a challenging situation for many people, and frustrations with the situation can turn into unjust accusations. And as if it weren't bad enough going up against the Redlands, CA, government, you're likely to face federal charges and accusations from federal investigators.
Important Note: If you've been accused of hospice fraud in criminal court, you can expect a civil suit to follow. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. 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 Redlands, 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.
Common schemes include: billing for services never rendered; upcoding (billing for a more expensive service than was actually provided); unbundling (billing separately for procedures that should be billed together at a lower combined rate); billing for medically unnecessary services; kickback arrangements for patient referrals; and identity theft of patient or physician billing credentials. The federal prosecutor is supported by an equally strong federal team of investigators, who can conduct their job very quietly. If you find out that you're under investigation for Medicare fraud, it's urgent that you contact your Redlands, CA theft lawyer immediately.
Important: It's possible to be accused of Medicare fraud even when all forms of medical care were honest and legitimate. This can occur if a provider offers money to someone in exchange for accessing Medicare-sponsored services through that provider. Providers and referrers are both at risk of prosecution under these circumstances.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (up to 20 if serious bodily injury results)
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus civil monetary penalties per claim
- Additional: Loss of eligibility for all federal health care programs
Health Care Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.
Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California law 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. Without an expert Redlands, CA theft lawyer, you could be stuck trying to sift through mountains of medical billing records and other specialized evidence on your own. Physicians, billing companies, office workers, and clerks 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 — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. In order to be eligible for Medicare reimbursement, the person receiving care must be homebound and require special care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.
A patient could be accused of this if they had a less serious condition, but claimed it was more dire, in order to receive in-home assistance. Meanwhile, a provider could be charged if a health service team member performs unneeded medical services in order to drive up bills. Home health fraud charges in Redlands, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.
Critical Note: There are special restrictions placed on doctors to prevent home health fraud. For example, the United States' Stark Law makes it illegal for a doctor to send a patient to a home health services provider that the physician financially benefits from. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — even if you broke the law accidentally.
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 Redlands, CA
There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in Redlands, 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, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. Carjacking can be compared to grand theft auto in the same way.
There is another way violence and theft crimes can overlap, though: when an initially nonviolent theft collides with a person. Home invasion charges can take place when a person allegedly breaks into a location to commit a burglary, but finds people inside and threatens them with violence.
Extortion relies more on threats than actual violence to commit a theft. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. The alleged offender doesn't necessarily need to threaten physical violence, but the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. As an example, if a person threatened to attack their manager unless they were given a favorable schedule, that person could be accused of extortion.
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 Redlands, 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. All robbery charges in California are felonies.
California distinguishes between first-degree robbery (committed against someone in an inhabited structure, a taxi/rideshare driver, or while using an ATM) and second-degree robbery (all other cases). First-degree robbery carries significantly higher penalties.
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
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 post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to deny someone a rightful certification unless special favors are given.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Burglary Charges We Defend in Redlands, CA
Burglary is often charged along with theft in Redlands, CA. 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 building, like a convenience store (which would make it 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 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, that all changed with the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, which made shoplifting a separate crime, applicable when the alleged offender was attempting theft from a store while it is open for operations. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. Today, shoplifting is no longer a subset of burglary offenses in Redlands, CA, and faces more lenient penalties if convicted.
Another related charge is vandalism. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by kicking in a door to in the process of a theft. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Redlands, CA, doubling the importance of working with an expert theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.
Finally, you can face theft charges in Redlands, CA, even if you didn't steal anything yourself. How does this happen? Receiving stolen property charges. If you allegedly buy or take something that you know is stolen, or help the person who stole it hide the property, you can face these charges.
Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges
Redlands, CA burglary charges can be wildly different from one another, and may not even involve theft — 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. You do not have to actually steal anything. The intent at the moment of entry is the key to burglary charges.
Residential burglary is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and Redlands, 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 Sentence: 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
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. This charge is considered a wobbler and could be either a misdemeanor or a felony.
Your theft crimes lawyer in Redlands, 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
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. This could be either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on how the Redlands, CA prosecutor interprets the circumstances.
Important note: The vehicle must be locked for a burglary charge to apply. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, but the burglary enhancement requires that the vehicle was secured in some way.
Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211
At the intersection of burglary and violent crimes are home invasion charges. Redlands, 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.
While it's possible to be charged with home invasion on its own, it's rare — more often, they'll be accompanied with additional theft and/or violence charges. If you are fighting home invasion charges, you need the most experienced criminal defense team available, and you need them as soon as possible.
Possible Penalties:
- Burglary Base: 2, 4, or 6 years
- Robbery Add-On: Additional 2–5 years
- Weapon Enhancement: Additional 3–10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — multiple strikes possible
Property & Other Offenses
Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing
While no criminal theft charges are truly 'simple,' they are made far more complex when they are compounded with related or adjacent charges. You need a Redlands, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.
Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496
This charge applies to some people who are indirectly involved in a theft. California law makes it illegal to hide, purchase, sell, or otherwise possess stolen property, regardless of whether or not you're the one who stole it.
These cases often hinge on your mental state — namely, whether or not you were (or should have been) aware that the item was stolen. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items at an unusually low price, without knowing their full history, or from unknown sellers, does not prove that you were aware the items were stolen.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594
Instead of violently harming another person or animal, vandalism is focused on property harm. It occurs when one person marks or damages another person's property, without permission and for bad purposes. This is related to theft because in many cases, the accused will be alleged to have broken into a location as a part of the theft.
Vandalism can either be a misdemeanor or a felony in California: For damage under $400, it's a misdemeanor, while for anything over, it's a felony.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
- Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
- Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
- Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service
Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602
You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. 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 usually 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. Defenses often hinge on whether permission was given or reasonably believed to exist.
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: Anything you say during an investigation or prosecution can be used to support a perjury charge if it's later shown to be false. This is why we always advise clients to say nothing without a theft crimes attorney present.
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)
California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. Because of this stealing even a nearly worthless firearm results in a felony charge. Grand theft of a firearm is considered a serious felony and can count as a strike under California's Three Strikes law.
Federal firearms theft charges may also apply. The combination of state and federal exposure makes this one of the most legally complex theft charges you can face. And it's even more essential to find an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.
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.
This offense is aggressively prosecuted in Redlands, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. Prison sentences can be increased even further if the alleged victim was 70 years or older. People convicted of financial elder abuse often also have to repay the alleged victim, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.
Examples: Caregiver overcharging for services; family member exerting undue influence over an elder's finances; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; fraudulent investment schemes targeting retirees.
Potential Penalties:
- Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
- Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
- Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
- Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court
Looting — California Penal Code § 463
During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. California Penal Code § 463 treats looting as an aggravated form of the underlying theft or burglary offense, with mandatory enhanced penalties.
If the enhanced penalties weren't enough on their own, the Redlands, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Redlands while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. An example might be breaking into someone's home during a riot and grabbing valuables to run away with.
Potential Penalties (Enhanced):
- Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
- Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
- Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
- Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods
Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery
Even if the supposed burglary or robbery failed, attempted theft charges will still apply. Attempted theft, burglary, or robbery in California needs to include: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.
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. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.
For any of the charges above, or more, when you contact us, you can connect with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Redlands, CA, who will help you break down and navigate the charges. 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. You're up against the Redlands, CA, prosecutor's office, the alleged victim is accusing you, and the collateral consequences could be devastating. Without help, the odds can seem insurmountable.
But you're not alone. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. When you work with us, you will get a Redlands, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. To get started, use the five steps below to protect your freedom and avoid common pitfalls:
1. Comply With the Police
Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Fighting back can only get you into more trouble.
2. Act Calm and Stay Silent
You may be questioned by the police – stay silent. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and you say something untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.
3. Contact a Redlands, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP
In California, you will be given the opportunity to make three completed phone calls after being arrested. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. Getting legal assistance quickly can protect you from making mistakes that will come back to hurt you later. 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. You are innocent until proven guilty, and should enjoy your freedom while your case proceeds.
5. Cooperate With Your Lawyer to Create a Defense Strategy
With the right attorney by your side, it's time to create a strategy to fight the charges. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in Redlands, CA, will listen to your story, negotiate with the state, and fight for a dismissal whenever possible.
Theft Lawyer Defensive Strategies
Your case is unique — and your defense strategy needs to be tailored to the specific details, evidence, and allegations. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in Redlands, 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. 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. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.
The claim of right defense applies when a defendant genuinely believed — even mistakenly — that they had a legal right to the property they took. If you genuinely believed you had the right to take the property — even if that belief was mistaken — it negates the criminal intent required for a theft conviction. More related defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the accused took the wrong item believing it to be their own); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (joyriding is a good example of this: it comes into play when a person took property away from its owner, but planned to return it).
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, particularly in cases involving disagreements regarding property ownership, where one person honestly believed they had a right to use property when they didn't.
Defense Application:
- 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 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 Redlands, CA, police department will gather evidence through searches. If the investigators didn't follow the rules, the evidence can be suppressed and the prosecution 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 conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause leading to an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that exceeded the scope of a legitimate warrant. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — this motion can be filed early on in your case, and has the potential to stop the state in its tracks.
In some cases, this is all it takes to mount a successful defense against theft charges. Even partial suppression — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can be the difference between a conviction and acquittal. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Redlands, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft cases.
Suppression Scenarios:
- Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
- Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, valid consent, or a recognized exception such as probable cause
- Digital Evidence / Cell Phones: Require a warrant under Riley v. California (2014)
- Fruit of the Poisonous Tree: If illegally obtained evidence leads to future evidence that was legally obtained, it's possible that all of it can be thrown out
False Accusation / Misidentification
The Redlands, CA, investigators and prosecution aren't perfect: Sometimes, they get the wrong guy. False accusations can come from personal disputes, misidentification by witnesses, mistaken assumptions about ownership, ambiguous surveillance footage, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. You can't rely on your innocence to get you out of trouble — aggressive and immediate defense is essential from the moment of accusation.
False accusations in Redlands, CA, often aren't the result of malice, but of a witness making an error. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — particularly 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. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Redlands, CA, court.
Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: establishing an alibi with corroborating witnesses, records, or surveillance footage; showing issues with how eyewitness identifications were obtained; attacking the character of the accuser; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and challenging inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.
If you are falsely accused: Stay away from witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without your theft defense lawyer present. Statements made to investigators — even truthful ones — can be mischaracterized, taken out of context, or used in unexpected ways. Contact defense counsel immediately and say nothing.
Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the Redlands, CA, prosecutor must prove you knew 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 Redlands, CA, theft cases. It's not illegal to use someone else's property if you had permission.
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.
Diversion Programs — For many first-time offenders, California offers sentencing alternatives that can protect you from a conviction. This is often a favorable outcome for our clients that we will fight to secure.
Arguing the Property Valuation — The difference between petty theft and grand theft — misdemeanor vs. felony — can hinge on the dollar value of what was allegedly stolen. You shouldn't face charges that are disproportionate to the alleged act.
Theft Crime Expungement / Record Clearance — California Penal Code § 1203.4
Whatever your past is, you have a future. And we want to help you make the most of it. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, as long as you've finished probation, you can ask for a guilty or no contest plea to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. Before you can do so, you will likely have to have fit the following critera: successfully completed all terms of probation, including fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — following recent changes in the law — in many cases, must not have served time in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).
In cases where probation was not granted, a petition under Penal Code § 1203.4a may provide relief after one year has elapsed since conviction. For those whose cases were dismissed without conviction, a separate petition under Penal Code § 851.91 may be available to seal the underlying arrest record entirely.
Expungement under § 1203.4 carries meaningful practical benefits: In particular, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. However, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it doesn't allow gun ownership, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in Redlands, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.
Critical Note: Expungement under § 1203.4 does not seal the record from law enforcement, licensing boards, or subsequent criminal proceedings. If your goal is full sealing, to be able to legally own a gun again, or clearing a prior strike, you will need a different method of expungement. Consulting with an experienced attorney before pursuing any post-conviction relief is strongly advisable.
Relief Options:
- PC § 1203.4: Dismissal after successful probation completion
- PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (1 year post-conviction)
- PC § 851.91: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
- SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
- Limitations: Still restricted from owning guns, and the police can still review these records
Redlands, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Redlands, California?
What you are charged with is primarily determined by how much whatever was supposedly taken was worth. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. Property valued above $950 — or involving specific categories like firearms or vehicles — is grand theft (a wobbler that can be a misdemeanor or felony). Both require an attorney, but grand theft charges demand urgent and aggressive representation.
Is it possible to expunge a theft conviction in California?
In many cases, 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. 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 should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Redlands, CA?
You will usually face misdemeanor charges for a first offense, as long as the amount alleged stolen is less than $950. Many first-time offenders are eligible for diversion programs that can result in a dismissal upon completing community service or a theft prevention course. Our theft crimes attorneys can make a major difference and help you with avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.
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 genuinely weren't aware and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, that is a strong defense. This is a strategy we frequently lean on in receiving stolen property cases. However, circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can erode your case, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.
How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Redlands, CA?
Extremely. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have a criminal record, you may also face enhanced sentencing. Call one of our attorneys immediately at (800) 755-5174.
What is a "wobbler" offense in California?
A wobbler is an offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor's discretion. Many theft-related offenses — such as 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. Redlands, CA courts have sentencing alternatives that will give you an alternative to incarceration, particularly for misdemeanors and first-time offenders. 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 are available to you.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Unfortunately, yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether you actually took anything doesn't matter — if prosecutors can prove you entered with criminal intent, you can be convicted of burglary even if you left empty-handed. As a result, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is critical to burglary defense.
Looking for a Redlands, CA, Theft Lawyer? Call Now.
There is no such thing as a minor theft accusation. Our lawyers are ready to defend you — whenver you need help. Contact us now for a free, confidential case review.
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