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Theft Lawyer South Gate, CA. When you are charged with a crime in South Gate, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. If you're facing theft allegations, the system can move against you extremely fast. On your own, it can feel impossible to win.

Even when you're at your lowest point, there is an option who will fight for you: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our attorneys have the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a South Gate, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team defending your freedom, every legal avenue will be explored to protect your rights.

Speak with a theft crimes attorney today at (800) 755-5174 or send us a note online for a free, confidential consultation. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.

How a South Gate, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

Theft charges need to be treated seriously, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to figure out a complicated legal system and increase your risk of the following penalties:

1. Prison Sentence: Jail time is a common consequence for theft in South Gate, CA.
2. Financial Penalties: Fines are commonly assigned as penalties in theft laws, plus you could lose more money in civil court.
3. Career Setbacks: Background checks can derail job applications, and you can lose access to professional licenses.
4. Reputational Damage: Even if you make it past everything else, the reputation as a "criminal" can stick with you.
5. And more.

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

Why You Should Hire Our South Gate, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

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

• Former Prosecutors & 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.
• Longstanding 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.
• Prepared to Fight Your Case at Trial — We prepare every case as if it's going to trial. This posture often produces better plea negotiations and dismissals — because the prosecution knows we're not bluffing.
• Expungement Services — We don't leave you behind after the verdict. Don't let an arrest or criminal record hold you back — speak with one of our South Gate, CA, criminal defense attorneys to discuss expungement options.
• Terrific Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
• Available 24/7 — Our team is available whenever you need us most. If you need a theft crime attorney, you shouldn't need to wait for regular business hours. And with our team, you don't have to.
• Fully Private — Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client privilege. Speak freely — we need the full story to build the strongest possible defense for you.

Theft Charges We Will Fight in South Gate, CA

Use the links below to jump directly to a full explanation of the law, penalties, and how we defend it.

Attempted Burglary | Attempted Robbery | Bribery | Burglary (Residential) | Burglary of a Vehicle | Carjacking | Commercial Burglary | Credit Card Fraud | Elder Financial Abuse | Embezzlement | Extortion | Forgery | Fraud / False Pretenses | Grand Theft | Grand Theft Auto | Grand Theft of a Firearm | Health Care Fraud | Home Health Fraud | Home Invasion Burglary | Hospice Fraud | Identity Theft | Insurance Fraud | Joyriding | Looting | Medicare Fraud | Money Laundering | Perjury | Petty Theft | Petty Theft with a Prior | Possession of Stolen Vehicle | Receiving Stolen Property | Robbery | Shoplifting (PC 459.5) | Theft from an Elder | Trespassing | Vandalism | Vehicle Theft | Welfare Fraud | White Collar Crimes

Theft Cases We Fight in South Gate, CA

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we're experienced in defending against charges of theft. if you require a theft crimes lawyer in South Gate, CA, don't hesitate: contact us right away for a free consult to go over your charges.

Our lawyers can help you fight all of the following allegations:

Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges

In South Gate, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. You can face these charges for taking someone's possessions when you weren't allowed to. The distinguishing factor is the amount that was supposedly taken: For anything $950 or less, the charges will generally be petty theft, while higher values will generally be grand theft.

Defending petty theft charges is usually easier because the potential penalties are less severe (it's normally charged as a misdemeanor). 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:

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

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

While it's still technically possible for shoplifting charges to be felonies, this is not as common as when it was considered a form of burglary. Today, the majority of shoplifting cases are misdemeanors. That said, 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 South Gate, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and avoid making mistakes that could have major consequences.

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

Shoplifting Possible Penalties:

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

Defensive strategies include: No intention to steal, wrong identity, entrapment by loss prevention, Fourth Amendment violations during detention, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666

Petty theft with a prior — sometimes abbreviated PTWP — allows prosecutors to elevate what would ordinarily be a misdemeanor petty theft charge into a wobbler when the defendant has a qualifying prior conviction on their record. Not every prior offense in South Gate, 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 accused has a criminal record including at least one of a set list of previous offenses (mostly including theft crimes, but also some sex crimes) — especially if the sentence included incarceration. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Defendants with certain prior serious or violent felonies, prior sex offense registration requirements, or prior burglary convictions under PC § 459 remain fully exposed to felony enhancement even for minor shoplifting incidents.

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 South Gate, CA

We will fight against all sorts of vehicle theft crimes in South Gate, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of 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 universally characterizes stealing a vehicle as 'grand theft', even if it wasn't worth more than $950.

Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're probably going to face charges of joyriding. While each of these vehicle crimes are 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in South Gate, CA, since the prosecution is more likely to assign that as a misdemeanor.

You can even face criminal charges without having committed an act of theft; How so? Through "possession of a stolen vehicle". In the same vein as receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Simply owning or keeping the car or truck is enough for a conviction.

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. Reach out today to start defending your rights.

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 — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. The law doesn't even specify if the vehicle needs to be working — stealing a nearly worthless broken down car would still qualify as grand theft.

The critical element prosecutors must prove is that you intended to permanently deprive the owner of the vehicle. If you intended to return it, the charge is more likely joyriding (see below).

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in South Gate, 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. It covers situations where the alleged offender both did and didn't intend to return the vehicle. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.

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

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding is a similar charge to grand theft auto, with one key difference: The alleged offender was going to give the car back. It may not sound like a big deal to borrow a car without permission and bring it back, but a joyriding conviction can be a felony in South Gate, CA, making it critical to get an expert vehicle theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

It's typical for joyriding to be treated as a misdemeanor in South Gate, CA. However, you can still face felony charges. This mostly applies to individuals with a criminal history, but not always.

Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215

If you had to pick the worst vehicle theft crime to be charged with, carjacking would be a leading contender. If you allegedly used force or threats to take someone's car directly from them, you can be charged with carjacking. Because this action involves violence, carjacking is always a felony and often has a mandatory prison sentence, as probation is not an option.

The impacts of a carjacking conviction are far-reaching, as they include a "strike" on your record. This increases the penalty for future criminal convictions.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

Many people are shocked to learn they can be convicted of a theft-related crime without actually having stolen anything. If you have or are storing a automobile 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 prosecution must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can argue that you didn't.

Potential Penalties:

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

White Collar Crime Charges We Fight in South Gate, CA

White collar crimes in South Gate, CA, can be any one of a variety of charges, but each of them share one thing in common: taking advantage of one's position within an organization to benefit oneself, illegally.

Several white collar crimes are defined by how money is transferred. 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 occurs when someone gives another person a gift in order to receive a favor, in a way that violates laws or regulations.

Not all white-collar crimes are centered around the exchange of money, though (at least not directly). Forgery is when someone creates a fake document with intentions to use it in a future theft, and identity theft involves stealing another person's personal information. Note that no financial theft has to occur for a person to be charged with either of these.

Forgery, Identity Theft, Bribery & More

Despite there being no physical harm involved, white collar charges are treated harshly by the law — prison sentences, massive fines, major career setbacks, and long-lasting reputational damage. If you want to fight back against these consequences, you need a financial theft crimes lawyer who knows the ins and outs of California white collar crime law.

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. What unites these offenses is the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. These cases are some of the most complicated in South Gate, CA, and normally require highly experienced representation to defend.

White collar cases are often investigated for months or even years before charges are filed. If you believe you are under investigation — or have received a subpoena, a target letter, or a visit from federal agents — call us immediately. 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: An accountant siphoning company funds; a bookkeeper writing unauthorized checks to themselves; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; A cashier voiding out a transaction but keeping the money; a non-profit director misusing donated funds.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• High Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
• Additional: Financial recompensation, loss of professional licenses

Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10

Money laundering involves taking money gained from a different crime and disguising it as being honestly earned. It ordinarilly involves three steps: placement (bringing the illegally-obtained money into the economy), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), and integration (investing the funds into something legal, or using another method to extract them into seemingly-legitimate assets).

California's money laundering law specifically targets transactions higher than $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, carrying sentences up to 20 years.

Possible Penalties (State):

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

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

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in order to affect the actions of a public official, juror, witness, or business partner. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — government officials, judges, lawmakers, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what position you're in, a South Gate, CA, theft crimes lawyer is essential to advise you on how to address these charges.

Who can face bribery charges? Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it could face charges in South Gate, CA. Even if the potential recipient declines the bribe, you could still face charges just for attempting it.

Possible Penalties:

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

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. California's forgery statute is broad and covers bills, receipts, stock certificates, deeds, wills, court orders, prescriptions, lottery tickets, and many other types of written instruments.

Who can face forgery charges? 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, in addition to the creation or use of the forged document, is enough for a conviction.

Possible Penalties:

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

Identity Theft — California Penal Code § 530.5

In South Gate, 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 — to perform a restricted activity, including obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

What if it didn't affect them financially? You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Just taking and using another individual's information without authorization is enough to violate California law. This makes it critical to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the particular of your situation.

South Gate, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and increasingly result in 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 Fight in South Gate, CA

Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in South Gate, CA. Generally speaking, a person who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is is one of the more common version of fraud.

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

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

Another popular form 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.

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

Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

There are many types of fraud allegations in South Gate, CA — in most cases, it's a small, individual action, but there have been massive systems of fraud as well. Because the evidence can be very complex and there can be a large amount of it, you need an expert theft crimes lawyer who can effectively navigate all of the intricacies.

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

Many "fraud" charges in South Gate fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when a person intentionally deceives another through false statements or misrepresentations, 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; pretending to be a tech support assistant; creating fake invoices; lying about the condition of goods sold.

Because the amount defrauded can vary, so does the penalty. It depends on the how much was stolen — if the total value was more than $950, you are likely looking at grand theft (and possible felony) charges.

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 South Gate, CA, prosecution takes insurance fraud extremely seriously, and the state has a dedicated Insurance Fraud Division that actively investigates these cases. An expert theft crimes lawyer will defend your freedom and negotiation with the prosecutor to help you find the best outcome possible

Frequent forms include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing claims for injuries that didn't occur; inflating repair cost claims; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; fabricating injuries; health insurance billing fraud.

Possible Penalties:

• Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
• Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
• Additional: License revocation for professionals

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

Credit card fraud charges in South Gate, CA, go beyond credit cards and involve the misuse of financial account access information. You could be accused of using someone else's card without consent, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or fraudulently obtaining or selling card account information.

What to know about federal charges: Credit card fraud frequently triggers federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1029 in addition to state charges, especially when cards are used across state lines or the internet is involved. Your theft crimes lawyer needs to have experience fighting fraud charges in both state and federal court.

Possible Penalties (State):

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

Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980

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

Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; Trading or selling food stamps; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.

These crimes often have special investigation teams that target alleged offenders. If convicted, you could be looking at years in prison and serious financial consequences. A local South Gate, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950 (commonly): 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, a patient must be predicted to pass away within half a year if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — a threshold that fraudulent providers routinely falsify.

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. South Gate, CA, and Southern California have been identified by federal investigators as high-risk regions for hospice fraud, and the Department of Justice and HHS Office of Inspector General have conducted coordinated multi-agency enforcement actions targeting hospice agencies operating in this area.

Critical Note: Even if you have a plan for the criminal charges, don't let your guard down — it's very likely that you'll face a civil lawsuit in conjunction with the criminal charges. If someone reaches out to the authorities, they may share their findings in order to allow for a civil suit. These investigations can go on for extended periods of time without your knowledge, until the state is ready to file charges.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Medicare fraud encompasses a broad range of conduct involving the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the Medicare program. Because Medicare is a federal program, these charges are almost exclusively prosecuted at the federal level — typically by the U.S. Attorney's Office with support from the FBI, HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains an active presence in South Gate, 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. Because Medicare billing data is centrally maintained, federal agents can identify statistical anomalies and billing patterns across thousands of claims — meaning investigations often begin long before a provider is aware they are being scrutinized.

Important: 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. Both the person paying and the person receiving a kickback can face prosecution.

Potential 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, under United States federal law, is when an individual lies to either their insurance agency or the government to receive some kind of benefit related to health care. These allegations apply in broader situations than Medicare, including when a non-governmental insurance agency is involved.

You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California's statute specifically outlaws situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. Health care fraud cases in South Gate, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Doctors, billing organizations, office workers, and clerks have all faced prosecution depending on their level of involvement.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Home health fraud, like other health care fraud types, also consists of making false statements to an insurance or government health care entity. The difference is that it describes specific types of healthcare services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. In order to be eligible for Medicare benefits, the care recipient must be homebound and require skilled care. Home health fraud exploits this framework in a variety of ways.

A patient could be accused of this if they had a less serious condition, but claimed it was more dire, in order to receive in-home assistance. Meanwhile, a provider could be charged if a health service team member performs unneeded medical services in order to drive up bills. Southern California has historically been one of the country's highest-risk regions for home health fraud, and federal task forces have conducted simultaneous multi-agency takedowns targeting dozens of home health agencies in South Gate, CA. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.

Important: 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. Outside of the criminal case, you can face fines, need to pay restitution, and be excluded from Medicare — to make matters worse, you can be convicted of violating this law even if you unintentionally broke it.

Potential Penalties:

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

Violent Theft Charges We Fight in South Gate, CA

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be facing both theft charges and violent crime charges in South Gate, CA. This can be the case when you're accused of robbery. A person commits robbery when they take something directly from another person by force. Versus burglary, the alleged theft occurred away from the alleged victim. Carjacking can be compared to grand theft auto in the same way.

That said, sometimes what started out as a burglary can end up with violent crime charges. Home invasion charges can take place when a person allegedly breaks into a location to commit a burglary, but finds people inside and threatens them with violence.

Extortion is a unique form of theft. When one person commits extortion, they threaten another in order to get something from them. This doesn't always need to include physical violence, but it can consist of any form of harm to the victim, including emotional or reputational. For 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. Immediate South Gate, CA, legal counsel is non-negotiable.

Robbery — California Penal Code § 211

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

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

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

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

Common examples: Threatening to report someone for a crime unless paid; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to 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 Fight in South Gate, CA

Burglary is often charged along with theft in South Gate, CA. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft or commit another crime. Ordinarily, this is a structure, like a convenience store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you supposedly smashed a car window to steal a wallet sitting on the seat, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.

No matter what kind of burglary you're charged with, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Because of this, these cases can often hinge on if you were allowed to be in the location or not.

Burglary Related Charges

Shoplifting is closely related to commercial burglary. In fact, before 2014, what you think of as shoplifting would be classified as burglary under California law. But 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. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in South Gate, CA (except in extreme cases).

Vandalism also shares many qualities with burglary. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by breaking a window to in order to steal from the building. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in South Gate, CA, doubling the importance of working with an experienced theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.

Lastly, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in South Gate, CA. What can lead to this? Receiving stolen property charges. This applies when someone supposedly buys, hides, or receives something that they know was taken unlawfully from another person.

Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges

South Gate, CA burglary charges can be wildly different from one another, and may not even involve theft — these charges apply when someone tresspasses on a property while planning to break the law, though it doesn't have to be a theft law specifically.

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

The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence while planning to commit a theft or any felony inside. Nothing actually needs to be stolen. Your motivation for entering the location is what matters.

This charge is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and South Gate, CA courts treat it extremely harshly because it involves violation of someone's home. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle

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. You could face either misdemeanor or felony charges for this offense.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459

Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. 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 South Gate, CA prosecutor interprets the circumstances.

Common misconception: The vehicle must be locked for a burglary charge to apply. This would still likely be prosecuted as theft, 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. This is treated as one of the gravest offenses in the California penal code, and prosecutors pursue maximum penalties. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.

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 a law firm with a track record of success, and you need them as soon as possible.

Potential Penalties:

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

Property & Related Offenses

Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing

These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. You need a South Gate, 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.

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

Potential Penalties:

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

Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594

Vandalism is the malicious defacement, damage, or destruction of another person's property. It is often charged alongside burglary when, for example, a window is broken to gain entry to a home or vehicle. It also applies to graffiti, which is one of the most commonly prosecuted forms of vandalism in South Gate, 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. Tresspassing is often charged alongside burglary, because the latter also involves entering a location without permission.

Without compounding charges, trespassing is most often charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, South Gate, CA, prosecutors can also use it as a part of a case for more serious charges. Fighting these charges is often a matter of whether or not the alleged offender did in fact have permission or the right to be there.

Perjury — California Penal Code § 118

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

Do not make this mistake: Speaking to the police at all is a risk, and it's even worse if you lie to them. By keeping a theft crimes lawyer on hand, you can avoid perjury charges and build a strong defense.

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)

Stealing a gun is extra serious in California — while the usual threshold for stealing something to be considered 'grand theft' is $950, there is no minimum value if the item stolen was a gun. Due to this stealing even a low-value firearm results in a felony charge. On top of that, a grand theft of a firearm felony can count for a strike on your criminal record if convicted.

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 have an attorney that has wide resources and strong legal skills.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

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

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

Common scenarios: Lenders pressuring the elderly to take bad loans; family member exerting undue influence over an elder's finances; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; impostor pretends to be a law enforcement official.

Potential Penalties:

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

Looting — California Penal Code § 463

Looting charges arise when theft or burglary occurs during a state of emergency, local emergency, evacuation order, or major disaster. While theft and burglary are the root charges behind the action, looting increases the penalties significantly.

In South Gate, CA — a city prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and civil unrest events — looting charges have been prosecuted with particular vigor. 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

Under California law, you can be charged with a crime even if the theft, burglary, or robbery was never completed. An attempt requires: (1) the desire to break the law, and (2) a direct, unequivocal act toward committing it — whatever the outcome was.

The general rule is that attempted crimes are punished at half the sentence of the completed 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.

Even though they are not successful, attempted robbery and attempted burglary can still leave a strike on your criminal record. 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 reach out to our firm, you can speak with an expert theft crimes lawyer in South Gate, CA, who will help you break down and navigate the charges. Together, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.

What to Do if You're Accused of Theft

Theft allegations are just the tip of the iceberg. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, not everyone will believe your side of the story, and a conviction could derail your life. When you're alone, it can seem impossible.

But you have an ally. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help. A South Gate, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team will guide you on how to navigate your case. To get started, use the five steps below to protect your freedom and avoid common pitfalls:

1. Do Not Resist Arrest

Mistakes here can hurt your case. If you're being arrested, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Refusing to comply can only lead to additional charges.

2. Act Calm and Don't Talk

You may be questioned by the police – invoke your right to remain silent. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Anything you say can be used as evidence against you, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.

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

In California, people who have been arrested are given three phone calls. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. 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

In most cases, you'll need to go through 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. Coordinate With Your Lawyer to Make a Personalized Defense

Finally, you work with your attorney to craft a strong defense. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in South Gate, CA, will take the time to listen to you, negotiate with the prosecution, and fight for charges to be dismissed whenever possible.

How Our Theft Lawyers Fight Against These Charges

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy must be tailored to the specific facts, circumstances, and charges. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in South Gate, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

Lack of intent is a common criminal defense strategy, and is particularly applicable in theft cases. All theft offenses under California law require that the defendant acted with specific intent to steal — that is, to permanently deprive another person of their property. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.

Claim of right is a related defense — if the accused didn't know that they were stealing a piece of property because they thought that they had permission to take it, they would lack the intent needed for a conviction. 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. Additional intent-based defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the accused took the wrong item believing it to be their own); voluntary intoxication (this does not always apply, but can limit intent in some cases); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).

Key point: You don't have to prove your intentions, but you may have to defend them against the prosecution. It's on the state to show that you did have the intent to commit theft at the time of the alleged crime. This isn't merely a backup plan. May defenses against stealing allegations will incorporate intent to some degree, particularly in cases involving disputes over ownership, employer-employee disagreements, family property conflicts, or transactions gone wrong.

Defense Application:

• Grand Theft: Charges may not apply if there was no intention to keep the allegedly stolen item
• Embezzlement: Challenges the fraudulent conversion element
• Fraud / False Pretenses: Attacks the knowing misrepresentation element
• 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, critical evidence — stolen property, alleged tools of the crime, communications, financial records — is frequently obtained through police searches. If the investigators broke the law, the evidence can be suppressed and the district attorney may need to drop charges.

Common suppression issues in theft and property crime cases include: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; searches resulting from a warrant that was based on false information; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without getting proper approval; and searches that go beyond 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 — a motion that can be brought at the preliminary hearing stage and can effectively end a prosecution before trial if granted.

If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. Even partial suppression — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can substantially change the outcome. Suppression motions are fully litigated in South Gate, CA, courts, and are a standard component of aggressive defense in all property crime 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

Whether because of malice or a simple mistake, sometimes innocent people get accused of theft in South Gate, CA. False accusations can result from personal disputes, witnesses mistaking the defendant for someone else, misunderstandings about ownership, ambiguous surveillance footage, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — you need a South Gate, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

Eyewitness misidentification is one of the leading causes of wrongful convictions nationally. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — particularly across racial lines, in scenarios of poor visibility, or when things moved too fast. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. California courts have increasingly recognized this science, and jury instructions now require courts to instruct juries on the inherent limitations of eyewitness identification evidence.

Defense strategies in false accusation cases include: establishing an alibi with corroborating witnesses, records, or surveillance footage; challenging the reliability of the identification procedure used by law enforcement (photo arrays, live lineups, show-ups); exposing bias or motive on the part alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.

If you have been falsely accused: Stay away from witnesses, do not attempt to gather evidence independently, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without your theft attorney present. You might make a mistake, or the police might misinterpret something you say. Contact defense counsel immediately and say nothing.

Lack of Knowledge — For some charges, the South Gate, CA, prosecutor must prove you were aware that the property was stolen. We will challenge whether or not you had this knowledge — it's common for people to make purchases without being aware of how the seller got the item.

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 — 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 — Particularly for offenders without a record, California offers diversion programs that can protect you from a conviction. We identify every diversion opportunity available in your specific case.

Contesting 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, individuals who have successfully completed probation for a misdemeanor or felony theft conviction may petition the court to dismiss the charges and withdraw their guilty or no contest plea — a process commonly called an expungement. Before you can do so, you will likely have to have fit the following critera: successfully done all that was asked of you as a part of probation, such as paying fines and restitution; not currently be charged with, on probation for, or serving a sentence for any other offense; and — as a more recent restriction — in several 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, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. That said, 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 does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in South Gate, 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 for the record to be totally inaccessible, to be able to legally own a gun again, or clearing a prior strike, a more comprehensive post-conviction strategy is required. 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: 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: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases

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South Gate, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between petty theft and grand theft in South Gate, California?


The primary distinction is the value of the property allegedly taken. Property valued at $950 or less results in petty theft charges (usually a misdemeanor). Property valued above $950 — or involving specific categories like firearms or vehicles — is grand theft (a wobbler that can be a misdemeanor or felony). Your theft crimes lawyer from the Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to defend you against either theft charge.

Is it possible to expunge a theft conviction in California?


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

What happens if I'm charged with shoplifting for the first time in South Gate, 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. An attorney can significantly improve your odds of avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.

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


Receiving stolen property (PC § 496) requires that you knew — or had good reason to know — the property was stolen. If you honestly weren't aware and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, you can build the foundation of your defense upon that fact. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or no documentation of ownership can lessen the strength of your defense, which is why an attorney is essential.

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


Very serious. You can expect your grand theft auto case to be charged as a felony, with increased penalties. If you have a criminal record, you are at risk of harsher penalties. Call us right away 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. Several theft-related offenses — including grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. One of the most important things a theft crimes attorney can do is push for misdemeanor treatment of wobbler charges, which dramatically reduces potential consequences.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


It depends, but it is not always the case. South Gate, 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 specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Contact our firm to understand what options exist in your case.

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


Yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether or not you committed theft is irrelevant — 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.

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Facing a Theft Charge in South Gate, CA? Contact Us to Protect Your Rights.

Every theft allegation is a big deal. Our lawyers are ready to defend you — no matter when you need us. Call now for a no-obligation consult on your case.

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• DUI Lawyer
• Criminal Defense Lawyer