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Theft Lawyer Redondo Beach, CA. When you are charged with a crime in Redondo Beach, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Theft charges in particular can be complex because of the wide variety of them. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.

Even when you can't figure out what to do on your own, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our team of legal experts has the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Redondo Beach, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team building your defense, you don't have to worry about how you'll handle things alone anymore.

Connect with an attorney today at (800) 755-5174 or connect with us online for a private review of your case at no cost. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.

The Importance of a Theft Lawyer in Redondo Beach, CA

Theft charges need to be treated seriously, regardless of whether or not you're innocent. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to navigate a intricate legal system and increase your risk of the following penalties:

1. Prison Sentence: Redondo Beach, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
2. Financial Penalties: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
3. Career Setbacks: Extended stints in jail can prevent you from doing your job, and cause you to lose it.
4. Stained Reputation: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
5. And more.

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

Why You Should Hire Our Redondo Beach, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

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

• Former District Attorneys & Judges — We know exactly how the state builds a theft case because some of our attorneys have done it themselves. We know common weak points and how to attack the prosecution's case.
• Extensive Court Relationships — With more than five decades of total legal experience, the state knows how hard we will fight for our clients and we know how to make use of our relationships to earn better deals for our clients.
• 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 — Our representation doesn't end at the verdict. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
• Stellar Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
• Always Availalbe — Arrests happen at all hours. So do we. You can reach a theft crimes attorney any time of day or night — because waiting until Monday morning can cost you critical opportunities.
• Totally 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.

Theft Charges We Defend in Redondo Beach, CA

Click any charge below to jump directly to a full breakdown of the law, consequences, and additional information.

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

Theft Charges We Fight in Redondo Beach, CA

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

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

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

While there are many different theft case types in Redondo Beach, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property without permission. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: If it was $950 or less, the charges will normally be petty theft, while any more will ordinarily be grand theft.

Defending petty theft allegations is typically more straightforward, as they are often (but not always) charged as misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. In either case, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.

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

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

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 2014, the majority of shoplifting cases are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that repeat offenders, organized retail theft, or amounts over $950 can still result in felony charges. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Redondo Beach, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and avoid making mistakes that could have major consequences.

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

Shoplifting Potential Penalties:

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

Defense options consist of: Lack of intent to steal, 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. This is one of the most common mechanisms used in Redondo Beach, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.

If you're facing petty theft with a prior allegations, the Redondo Beach, CA, district attorney must establish: (1) the suspect is guilty of petty theft; and (2) the accused has at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — especially if the sentence included incarceration. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.

Potential Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Defend in Redondo Beach, CA

There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Redondo Beach, CA. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's technically not its own charge. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection of the state's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.

Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're more likely to face charges of joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, in Redondo Beach, CA, grand theft auto is normally charged as a felony, while joyriding is normally a misdemeanor.

One final vehicle theft-related charge that some people underestimate is possession of a stolen vehicle. Just like receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Just owning or keeping the car or truck can result in these charges.

When you contact our law firm, you'll work with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Contact us now to start protecting your freedom.

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

Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — it is a subcategory of grand theft that applies specifically to the theft of any motor vehicle, regardless of its value. 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 Redondo Beach, CA)
• Felony Prison Sentence: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail Sentence: Up to 1 year
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Vehicle Code § 10851 — sometimes called "joyriding" broadly — is often charged alongside or instead of grand theft auto. This is because § 10851 applies whether or not the alleged offender was going to return the automobile. This law is relevant any time someone allegedly drives a vehicle without permission.

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

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. Despite the casual name, this is a serious criminal offense that is treated as a wobbler in California — it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony.

It's typical for joyriding to be treated as a misdemeanor in Redondo Beach, 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

If you had to pick the worst vehicle theft crime to be charged with, carjacking would be a leading contender. It is defined as taking a motor vehicle from another person through force or fear — essentially a robbery of a car. Because of the violent element, carjacking is always a felony and is not eligible for probation in many circumstances.

Carjacking is also a "strike" offense under California's Three Strikes law. A conviction can have lifelong consequences beyond just the immediate sentence.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Many people are shocked to learn they can be convicted of a theft-related crime without actually having stolen anything. If you have a vehicle when you knew or should have know it was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.

This charge frequently catches people who buy vehicles through informal channels, accept a vehicle as a gift, or borrow a car without fully investigating its ownership history. The prosecution must prove 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 Redondo Beach, CA

White collar crimes in Redondo Beach, CA, can look very different from each other, but each of them share one thing in common: misusing professional power for financial gain.

Several white collar crimes are non-violent, and even non-physical, forms of theft. Embezzlement is when one person steals money that they were in charge of, but was not their own. 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

Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — prison sentences, financial penalties, professional license revocation, and long-lasting stains on your reputation. To protect yourself against these consequences, it's critical to have a theft crimes lawyer with local experience and expertise in your corner.

White Collar Crimes — Synopsis

Individual "white collar crimes" can look very different from each other. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a position for personal gain. Redondo Beach, CA, because of its proximity to major financial and entertainment centers, sees some of California's most complex white collar prosecutions.

In contrast to other crime categories (like DUIs, where police may cite you immediately at a checkpoint), state investigators can spend a long time building a case before you are formally accused. If the police have reached out to you for questioning, don't talk to them alone. An attorney is essential as soon as you find out you're under investigation. Pre-charge representation can sometimes prevent an indictment entirely.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement 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 main feature is the pre-existing legal access — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

Common contexts: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a bookkeeper writing unauthorized checks to themselves; a financial advisor moving client funds to personal accounts; A cashier voiding out a transaction but keeping the money; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.

Potential Penalties:

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

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering is any way that someone can take 'dirty' money and make it appear 'clean.' It ordinarilly is made up of three stages: placement (introducing dirty money into the financial system), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).

California's money laundering statute specifically targets financial actions over $5,000 conducted with knowledge that the money was obtained through criminal activity. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, which tends to have much harsher penalties.

Possible Penalties (State):

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

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

You can face bribery charges for offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of elected officials, judges, lawmakers, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what form of bribery you've been accused of, a Redondo Beach, CA, theft crimes lawyer is important to advise you on how to address these charges.

Important: Whether you offered or accepted a bribe, you could face charges in Redondo Beach, CA. Attempted bribery charges are even possible, if one person tries to bribe another, and the second person refuses it.

Possible Penalties:

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

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers checks, receipts, stock certificates, deeds, power of attorney documents, court orders, prescriptions, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.

What if I didn't use the forged document? You can be charged with forgery even if no one was actually defrauded. The intent to defraud, combined with the creation or use of the fake item, 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 Redondo Beach, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, including obtaining credit, goods, services, or medical information.

Important factor: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Simply taking and using someone's information without authorization is enough to violate state law. This makes it critical to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the specifics of your situation.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Fraud Charges We Defend in Redondo Beach, CA

Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Redondo Beach, CA, and it has several subcategories. Broadly speaking, someone who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is the most ordinary version of fraud.

Insurance fraud is a specific variation where a person allegedly lies on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For example, if someone were to hide their valuable property and claim it was stollen, that person 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 pretending that one's income is lower than it actually is in order to receive food stamps.

Another notable variation is credit card fraud. This one is a little different because instead of representing someone about themselves, for credit card fraud, normally a person is lying about the credit card they are using. Maybe it's stolen, expired, or fake, but the bottom line is that the card was not supposed to be used in this way.

An expert theft crimes lawyer in Redondo Beach, 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 Redondo Beach, CA — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to have experience not only with the state law, but also following financial trails.

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

Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in Redondo Beach. These allegations are used when one person lies to someone else, who then freely gives up something of value based on the false information. As opposed to forceful or unknowing theft, theft by false prestenses involves the alleged victim deliberately parting with their goods because of the deception.

Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; pretending to be a tech support assistant; pitching investments based on false information; 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 Redondo Beach, 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 fight the allegations 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; exaggerating property damage; arson for insurance proceeds; 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 twice what was defrauded
• Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
• Additional: Career and job restrictions/penalties

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

Credit card fraud charges in Redondo Beach, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. This includes using someone else's card without permission, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or illegally obtaining or selling card account information.

Regarding federal charges: You are likely to face both federal and state charges, particularly when accounts are used across state lines or some part of the alleged crime occurred online. Federal penalties are significantly more severe, and our team of theft crime lawyers has experience handling both state and federal fraud cases.

Possible Penalties (State):

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

Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980

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

Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; misrepresenting household composition; using another person's EBT card; falsely claiming a dependent child; not reporting new circumstances that would end benefits eligibility.

Penalties for welfare fraud, if convicted, can result in fines, prison time, and required repayment of the value taken. A local Redondo Beach, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and boost your chances of a positive outcome.

Possible Penalties:

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

Additional: Lose your right to receive benefits in the future

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

Hospice fraud occurs when a hospice provider bills Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurers for services that were not rendered, were medically unnecessary, or were provided to patients who did not actually qualify for hospice care. To qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, the recipient must be predicted to pass away within half a year if nothing drastic changes in their health condition — many hospice fraud cases are the result of these predictions being inaccurate.

This type of fraud is more often alleged towards providers over patients. Because healthcare professionals have more access to control billing and provide diagnoses, they are at higher risk of being accused of hospice fraud. And as if it weren't bad enough going up against the Redondo Beach, CA, government, you're likely to face federal charges and accusations from federal investigators.

Important 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. These investigations can go on for extended periods of time without your knowledge, until the state is ready to file charges.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Medicare fraud charges vary in scope, but all consist of attempts to defraud the government's Medicare program in one form or another. Because Medicare is a federal program, these charges are almost exclusively prosecuted at the federal level — typically by the U.S. Attorney's Office with support from the FBI, HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains an active presence in Redondo Beach, CA.

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 Redondo Beach, CA theft lawyer immediately.

Warning: The Anti-Kickback Statute (42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) makes it a federal crime to offer, pay, solicit, or receive anything of value to induce referrals of Medicare-covered services. Violations can arise even when the underlying medical service was legitimately provided. Providers and referrers are both at risk of prosecution under these circumstances.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Health care fraud charges are normally related to a person providing false information on an insurance form, in order to receive an undeserved payout. 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 law specifically outlaws situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. These are some of the most complicated cases to defend in Redondo Beach, CA, as they often involve extensive medical records and expert testimony/analysis. Healthcare providers, billing companies, office workers, and clerical staff have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

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

One example would be a patient who lied about being homebound in order to receive special benefits. A counterexample would be a home service provider who submitted claims to Medicare for services that were never provided. Home health fraud charges in Redondo Beach, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Warning: The Physician Self-Referral Law (Stark Law, 42 U.S.C. § 1395nn) prohibits physicians from referring Medicare patients to home health entities in which they have a financial interest. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — and a Stark Law violation does not require proof of intent.

Possible Penalties:

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

Violent Theft Charges We Fight in Redondo Beach, CA

Violent crime charges and theft charges often go hand in hand in Redondo Beach, CA. One common example is robbery. A person commits robbery when they take something directly from another person by force. As opposed to 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 start out as regular burglary, with the alleged offender not intending to commit violence, but that changes when they run into another person.

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. For example, if one person had a compromising photo of another and threatened to release it if not given money, that would be extortion.

Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft

If you allegedly threatened or attacked someone in the course of committing theft, your case is even more serious. Beyond the felony charges themselves, you could also be up against a strike on your record. It's essential to get a theft crimes lawyer in Redondo Beach, CA to protect your freedom.

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.

Possible Penalties:

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

Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518

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

Common examples: Threatening to falsely accuse someone of theft unless the property is given up; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to 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 Redondo Beach, CA

Burglary charges in Redondo Beach, 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 building, like a convenience store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly smashed a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.

Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, defenses to burglary charges can hinge on whether or not you had permission to be in the structure, and what your intentions were while you were there.

Burglary Related Charges

Shoplifting also involves the theft of items from a store, similar to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. However, after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. The differences in charges had a major impact for several offenses and penalties. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in Redondo Beach, CA (except in extreme cases).

Vandalism also shares many qualities with burglary. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by breaking a window to in the process of a theft. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in Redondo Beach, CA, doubling the importance of working with a top quality theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.

Lastly, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in Redondo Beach, CA. 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 — you can be charged with burglary for entering a wide range of structures with the intent to commit a crime inside, even if you never actually steal anything.

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

The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence for the purpose of committing a theft or any felony inside. You do not have to actually steal anything. Your motivation for entering the location is what matters.

This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and Redondo Beach, 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 Term: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
• Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony strike
• Probation: Generally not eligible 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. You could face either misdemeanor or felony charges for this offense.

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

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. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.

Key distinction: Stealing from an unlocked vehicle does 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. Redondo Beach, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Property & Other Offenses

Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing

These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. Understanding how they interact is critical to building an effective defense.

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 a great deal, without receipts, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.

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

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 Redondo Beach, 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.

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.

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

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

Potential Penalties:

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

Specialized & Enhanced Charges

Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes

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

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

California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. This means the theft of even a low-value firearm will end up with a felony charge. Firearm theft can have long-lasting implications, beyond most other theft offenses — this is because it counts as a strike on your record.

To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more critical to find an attorney who is able to protect you from even the toughest opponents.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

California law provides special enhanced protections for victims aged 65 or older (and dependent adults). 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 Redondo Beach, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. Civil liability and restitution orders frequently accompany criminal proceedings, and Adult Protective Services involvement can complicate cases further.

Examples: Caregiver overcharging for services; family member using power of attorney to take money; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.

Potential Penalties:

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

Looting — California Penal Code § 463

During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. 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 Redondo Beach, CA, prosecuting attorney is likely going to go the extra mile for looting whenever possible. These acts are viewed as particularly heinous, and penalties can be severe. An example might be breaking into someone's home during a riot and grabbing valuables to run away with.

Potential Penalties (Enhanced):

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

Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery

Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Redondo Beach, CA. For it to be considered an attempt, the prosecution needs to prove two things: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — regardless of whether it was successful or not.

Most of the time, the punishment for an attempt is half of what it would have been, if it were completed. So attempted robbery carries half the prison exposure of robbery. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.

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

For any of the charges above, or more, when you call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you can talk to an expert theft crimes lawyer in Redondo Beach, 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 Redondo Beach, CA, prosecutor's office, not everyone will believe your side of the story, and the collateral consequences could be devastating. Trying to handle it yourself, the odds can seem insurmountable.

But you have an ally. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. A Redondo Beach, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team will guide you on how to navigate your case. If you're up against theft crime accusations, here are our recommendations:

1. Comply With the Police

While it's reasonable to feel angry about being arrested, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Resisting can only make things worse.

2. Keep Calm and Don't Talk

It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – invoke your right to remain 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 if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

3. Contact a Redondo Beach, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP

In California, after you are processed for arrest, you get three phone calls. One of these should be to your theft crimes lawyer. Acting fast is important to protect your freedom. We are available 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. Your rights and freedom matter, no matter what you've been accused of.

5. Cooperate With Your Attorney to Make a Personalized Defense

With the right attorney by your side, it's time to create a strategy to fight the charges. A skilled theft crimes lawyer in Redondo Beach, CA, will listen to your story, negotiate for deals with the state, and argue for a dismissal whenever possible.

Theft Lawyer Defensive Strategies

Every theft case is different — and every defense strategy needs to be customized to the specific details, evidence, and allegations. Below, you can read about some of the popular ways we will fight theft cases in Redondo Beach, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

One of the most powerful defenses in any theft case is the absence of criminal intent. 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. Similar defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the defendant took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (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: The prosecution bears the burden of proving criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt — the defendant does not have to prove innocence. This isn't merely a backup plan. It is often the strongest available defense, especially in cases involving disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.

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 theft and burglary cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If the authorities violated constitutional requirements, the evidence can be thrown out and the state may not be able to move forward with your case.

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 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. California Penal Code § 1538.5 gives defendants a statutory right to move to suppress evidence obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment — suppression of unlawfully abstained evidence motions can destroy the prosecution's argument, leading to dropped or dismissed charges.

In some cases, this is all it takes to mount a successful defense against theft charges. Even partial suppression — in cases where a subset of the evidence against the defendant is suppressed — can make a big difference. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Redondo Beach, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft cases.

Suppression Scenarios:

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

Innocent people are charged with theft crimes more often than the public realizes. False accusations can stem from personal arguments, witnesses mistaking the defendant for someone else, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. You can't rely on your innocence to get you out of trouble — you need a Redondo Beach, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

One of the ways that innocent people are commonly accused in Redondo Beach, CA is by eyewitnesses mistaking them for the offender. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, the high intensity of the circumstances can lead to witnesses not remembering details clearly — most notably across racial lines, if they didn't have a clear sightline, or when things moved too fast. Even if the witness is sure, they could be mistaken. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Redondo Beach, 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 highlighting inconsistencies between different statements and testimony between witnesses.

If you are innocent: Do not confront witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, 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. Contact defense counsel immediately and say nothing.

Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the Redondo Beach, CA, prosecutor must prove you were aware that the property was stolen. If you're facing an applicable charge, we will raise doubt as to your knowledge that the goods were stolen and explain how you could come to possess them without realizing.

Consent / Permission — Consent is the defining feature behind many theft charges; if you didn't have permission to use take an item, you could be found guilty. It's not illegal to use someone else's property if you had permission.

Rights 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.

Diversion Programs — Particularly for offenders without a record, California offers sentencing alternatives that can result in charges being dismissed after completing community service, restitution, or counseling. This is often a favorable outcome for our clients that we will fight to secure.

Challenging 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. We challenge inflated or unsupported property valuations, which can dramatically reduce the charges you face.

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

California gives you options to clear your record and get a fresh start. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, certain individuals with theft convictions can ask for their pleas to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: successfully completed all terms of probation, including fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — in a newly added requirement — 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.

Here are some of the advantages of getting your theft conviction expunged: In particular, an expunged conviction generally does not need to be disclosed on private employment applications under state law. However, the criminal record isn't entirely thrown away by expungement — it does not restore firearm rights, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) even automates part of the expungement process in some cases, if there haven't been any subsequent criminal cases.

Important: 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, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, you'll have to look into other ways to have your record sealed. By talking to a theft conviction expungement attorney, you get help with exploring what other possibilities could help in your situation.

Relief Options:

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in Redondo Beach, CA

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


What you are charged with is primarily determined by how much whatever was supposedly taken was worth. Property valued at $950 or less results in petty theft charges (usually a misdemeanor). Anything over $950, guns, or vehicles all result in grand theft charges, which can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Both require an attorney, but grand theft charges demand urgent and aggressive representation.

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


In many cases, yes. For probation sentences, expungement is often offered conditionally upon your completion. This will protect your record, prevent most of the public from being able to access it, and help you get a clean start. Our firm offers full expungement services.

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


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

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


If the charge you are facing is one of receiving stolen property, as a part of securing a conviction the prosecution needs to prove that you knew (or should have known) that the property was stolen. If you sincerely weren't aware and didn't have a reason to suspect it, that is a strong defense. We often use this as a way to protect our clients from accusations. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or lack of receipts can erode your case, which is why an attorney is essential.

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


Very serious. In Redondo Beach, CA, grand theft auto is almost always prosecuted as a felony, which means potential prison time (up to three years), fines up to $10,000, and a felony record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have a criminal record, you may also face enhanced sentencing. Get in touch with one of our attorneys immediately at (800) 755-5174.

What is a "wobbler" offense in California?


The state of California defines several offenses as "wobblers," which can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony. The prosecuting attorney makes this call based on the circumstances of the alleged crime. Many theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we take these charges seriously and will argue for misdemeanor options.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


It depends, but it is not always the case. Redondo Beach, CA courts have sentencing alternatives that will give you an alternative to incarceration, particularly for misdemeanors and first-time offenders. Even felony charges often have options short of state prison. The answer depends heavily on your specific charge, criminal history, and the quality of your legal representation. Call our firm to understand what options exist in your case.

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


Yes. In California, the actions you take after unlawfully entering a location don't determine a burglary charge. Instead, the state defines burglary as going into a building in order to steal something or break a felony law. Whether you stole something or not doesn't matter — 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 challenging how it's proven — is central to burglary defense.

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Up Against Theft Charges in Redondo Beach, CA? Contact Our Team Now.

You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Redondo Beach, CA, legal system. Our firm is equipped to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call now for a no-obligation consult on your case.

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• Violent Crimes Lawyer
• DUI Lawyer
• Criminal Defense Lawyer