Theft Lawyer Van Nuys, CA. Accusations. Arrests. Criminal charges. You might even be facing multiple theft charges at once. Without help, it's easy to find yourself in a spot where you feel hopeless.
Even when you can't figure out what to do on your own, there is an option who will fight for you: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our legal team has the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Van Nuys, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team building your defense, you're going to get honest advice on how to get the best outcome possible.
Discuss your case with a theft crimes lawyer today at (800) 755-5174 or send us a note online for a free, confidential consultation. Delays can cost you your freedom, and we're ready to fight for you today.
Why You Need a Leading Van Nuys, CA, Theft Defense Lawyer
You should never take theft allegations lightly, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to decipher a intricate legal code and potentially set yourself up for the below consequences:
- Jail Sentence: Van Nuys, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
- Financial Penalties: On top of paying back the value of whatever was stolen, fines can give you a serious financial burden.
- Career Setbacks: Extended stints in jail can prevent you from doing your job, and cause you to lose it.
- Stained Reputation: Regardless of the facts and circumstances surrounding your case, some people will only look at the conviction.
- And more.
To maximize your chances of replacing these consequences with freedom, you'll need a Van Nuys, CA theft crimes lawyer on your case. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley . Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
Why You Should Hire Our Van Nuys, CA Theft Defense Lawyers
Picking the right Van Nuys, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what set us apart — and why it matters for your theft case:
- Former District Attorneys & Judges — We have experience and insights from our time in other areas of the law. We know common weak points and how to attack the prosecution's case.
- Longstanding Court Relationships — Decades of practice in Van Nuys, CA, courts means we know the judges, the prosecutors, and the local procedures — and we leverage that for better outcomes for every client.
- Trial-Ready From Day One — 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.
- Record Expungement Services — We don't leave you behind after the verdict. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
- Terrific Reputation – We are well-known for our tenacious representation.
- Ready for Your Call Right Away — Our team is available whenever you need us most. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
- 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 Van Nuys, 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 Charges We Fight in Van Nuys, CA
Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in Van Nuys, CA, don't wait: Reach out right away for a free consult to go over your charges.
Below are some of the main theft crime accusations we fight against in Van Nuys, CA:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
In Van Nuys, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. At a basic level, these are almost the same act: taking someone else's money or items without permission. The main difference is how much value was allegedly stolen: For anything $950 or less, the charges will ordinarily be petty theft, while higher values will normally be grand theft.
Fighting petty theft allegations often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. On the other hand, fighting grand theft charges normally is a greater challenge, because it is more likely to be a felony. Regardless of what you're up against, 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:
| Alleged Violation | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Stolen Property Value | $950 or Less | More than $950 |
| Charge Type? | Ordinarilly Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor or Felony |
| Misdemeanor Penalties | Up to six months in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines | Up to one year in jail, and up to $1,000 in fines |
| Felony Penalties | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines | Up to three years in prison, and up to $10,000 in fines |
Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5
Following the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014, shoplifting became its own distinct offense separate from commercial burglary. Shoplifting is defined as entering a business during normal business hours with the intent to steal merchandise valued at $950 or less.
In the past, because shoplifting fell under burglary, it was more likely to be charged as a felony. Today, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. That said, you could still face felony charges in some circumstances, such as if you have certain previous convictions on your record. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Van Nuys, 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) 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
Potential defenses are: 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 Van Nuys, CA, to increase exposure for repeat offenders, even when the underlying theft involves a modest amount.
To charge PC § 666, the state must establish: (1) the defendant is guilty of petty theft; and (2) the suspect has previously been found guilty for certain crimes, mostly theft related — especially if the sentence included incarceration. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.
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 Van Nuys, CA
There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in Van Nuys, CA. One of the ones people commonly think of is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a law of its own. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection of the state's 'grand theft' law, which universally characterizes stealing a vehicle as 'grand theft', even if it wasn't worth more than $950.
Grand theft auto charges are usually used when the defendant allegedly didn't intend to return the vehicle. On the other hand, if they were only doing to drive it briefly and then bring it back, they're more likely to be charged with joyriding. While grand theft auto and joyriding are both 'wobbler' offenses, joyriding charges are almost always better to face in Van Nuys, CA, because they're likely to be charged as misdemeanors, versus grand theft auto felonies.
If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. Similar to receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Just owning or keeping the vehicle can result in these charges.
At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll partner with a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Reach out now to start protecting your freedom.
Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)
Despite what popular culture would have you believe, there isn't a specific "grand theft auto" law in California — it is a subcategory of grand theft that applies specifically to the theft of any motor vehicle, regardless of its value. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.
Grand theft auto and joyriding have a close relationship in Van Nuys, CA, courts — grand theft auto only applies if you never intended to give the car back, but if you did, the lesser charge of joyriding would apply.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Van Nuys, 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. This law is relevant any time someone allegedly drives a vehicle without permission.
This charge is popular in Van Nuys, CA, courts as either a plea deal or as its own charge.
Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. Even though it's not normally as bad as grand theft auto, it can still be charged as a felony. To protect your freedom, you need an experienced Van Nuys, CA, vehicle theft crimes lawyer to build you a solid defense.
In Van Nuys, CA, joyriding is most commonly charged as a misdemeanor, making it significantly less severe than grand theft auto. That said, prior criminal history or aggravating circumstances can push it to a felony.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Key Distinction | Temporarily deprive | Permenantly deprive |
| Normal Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
Carjacking — California Penal Code § 215
Carjacking is one of the most serious vehicle-related charges in California. 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.
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
In Van Nuys, CA, the prosecution can charge you with a related crime even if you didn't steal the vehicle. If you have or are storing a automobile that you knew or should have known was stolen, PC § 496d still applies, regardless of your involvement in its theft.
We see this charge often in cases where someone borrowed or bought a car without having access to its full history. The state must prove were aware that the vehicle was stolen — a skillful vehicle theft crimes lawyer may use a strategy that raises doubts as to your knowledge.
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 Van Nuys, CA
White collar crimes in Van Nuys, CA, vary widely in context and action, but they all have a common trait: misusing professional power for financial gain.
Most white collar crimes center around taking or hiding money in some way. Embezzlement is a good example of this: For this alleged crime, someone would legally be in charge of a person's or organization's money, but would take from it for personal use. Money laundering is taking money that was otherwise gotten illegally and trying to disguise it as something that was earned legally. Meanwhile, bribery 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 are centered around the exchange of money, 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, Fraud & More
It's easy to think that white collar accusations aren't taken as seriously as violent crimes in Van Nuys, CA, but you'd be wrong. The punishments can be dire — years in prison, massive fines, professional license revocation, and permanent 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
The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. These charges will include the element of deceit, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. It's common for white collar crime cases in Van Nuys, CA, to require specialized experts on both the prosecution and defensive sides.
These charges can seemingly come out of nowhere, as state investigators will take months to years to build a case before filing charges. Call us now if you have any reason to believe the police are looking into you. Pre-charge representation can sometimes prevent an indictment entirely.
Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503
Embezzlement is when someone legally can use property for certain purposes, but uses it for different ones. The main feature is the pre-existing lawful access — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.
Common contexts: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a 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 charity collector taking cash donations while leaving other types alone.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- High Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
- Additional: Financial recompensation, professional consequences
Money Laundering — California Penal Code § 186.10
Money laundering is any way that someone can take 'dirty' money and make it appear 'clean.' It usually consists of three steps: placement (introducing dirty money into the financial system), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).
California's money laundering law aims at transactions 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, carrying sentences up to 20 years.
Potential 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
Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in order to affect the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law targets multiple forms of bribery — that of government officials, judges, lawmakers, executive officers, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what the specifics of your case, a Van Nuys, CA, theft crimes lawyer is critical 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 Van Nuys, CA. Even an attempt to bribe can result in criminal charges, regardless of whether the other party accepts.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
- Public Officials: Permanent ineligibility for office
- Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)
Forgery — California Penal Code § 470
You can be charged with forgery in Van Nuys, CA, if you allegedly changed or made a fake document to trick someone into giving you money or other valuables. State law is broad and covers checks, receipts, contracts, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, court orders, prescriptions, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.
Critical point: 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 act of creating or using the false document, is sufficient 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 Van Nuys, 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, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.
Important factor: You can be found guilty even if the alleged victim didn't lose any money. Just obtaining and using someone's information without a legal reason is enough to trigger criminal charges under state law. Because of this, you need to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer regardless of the particular of your case.
Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Van Nuys, CA, and increasingly involve federal charges when conducted online, across state lines, or at scale.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Per Victim: Charges can stack — one count per victim
- Federal: Up to 15–30 years (aggravated cases)
Fraud Charges We Defend in Van Nuys, CA
Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Van Nuys, CA, and it has several subcategories. Generally speaking, a person who commits theft by misrepresenting themselves or a situation in order to get another person to give away money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is the most ordinary version of fraud.
Insurance fraud is a popular type of fraud in Van Nuys, CA, wherein someone lies to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. For example, after a car accident, a person who lies about how much damage was caused to get a bigger payout can be charged with 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 notable variation is credit card fraud. This type of fraud involves dishonesty about the credit card and/or how it was acquired. If you allegedly took a credit card and used it without permission, you can face credit card fraud charges.
Because fraud cases can vary so much from each other, having a theft crimes lawyer with experience in all these areas is essential.
Types of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception
There are many types of fraud allegations in Van Nuys, CA — from simple misrepresentations to elaborate financial schemes. These cases are often document-heavy and require a theft crimes lawyer who understands both the law and financial evidence.
Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532
Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in Van Nuys. These allegations are used when one person lies to someone else, causing them to voluntarily transfer money or property. Theft by false pretenses is distinct because the supposed victim intentionally parts with their valuables, as opposed to robbery, where they are taken by force.
Common examples: Lying about being a contest winner; pretending to be a tech support assistant; pitching investments based on false information; lying about the condition of goods sold.
If you're facing theft by false pretenses charges, it could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The level 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. If you're facing insurance fraud charges in Van Nuys, CA, it's possible that you'll go to prison for several years if convicted. An expert theft crimes lawyer will fight the allegations and explore all avenues to help you find the best outcome possible
Frequent examples include: Staging or exaggerating auto accidents; filing false theft reports; exaggerating property damage; deliberately damaging your property for a payout; fabricating injuries; health insurance billing fraud.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
- Restitution: Full repayment to insurer
- Additional: Career and job restrictions/penalties
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
You can face credit card fraud charges in Van Nuys, CA, for a variety of actions done with a credit or debit card. Charges can occur if someone is caught using another person's card without authorization, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, charging to an account when you don't have the card, or illegally obtaining or selling card account information.
Note on federal charges: Credit card fraud frequently triggers federal charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1029 in addition to state charges, particularly when accounts are used across state lines or online. 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: Failing to report income; 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 leading Van Nuys, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and find you alternative paths forward.
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: Loss of future benefit eligibility
Hospice Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Hospice fraud accusations in Van Nuys, CA, are very serious. They are often applied to healthcare practitioners who create fake requests for payment or prescribe unneeded treatments related to hospice. To qualify forMedicare hospice benefits, a patient must have a terminal prognosis of six months or less to live if their current health conditions progress in a typically expected manner — 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 Van Nuys, CA, government, you're likely to face federal charges and accusations from federal investigators.
Warning: 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 Van Nuys, CA.
Medicare fraud convictions are particularly bad because they can prevent you from ever receiving Medicare or Medi-Cal benefits in the future. This is on top of other consequences, like the loss of professional licensing. 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.
Warning: It's possible to be accused of Medicare fraud even when all forms of medical care were honest and legitimate. This can occur if a provider offers money to someone in exchange for accessing Medicare-sponsored services through that provider. Providers and referrers are both at risk of prosecution under these circumstances.
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: Loss of eligibility for all federal health care programs
Health Care Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. Critically, the statute applies to all health benefit programs, not just Medicare and Medicaid — including private commercial insurers.
You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California's statute specifically addresses false or misleading statements made in connection with insurance claims, including the submission of multiple claims for a single loss and the preparation of false medical reports. Health care fraud cases in Van Nuys, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Healthcare providers, billing companies, office managers, and clerks have all faced prosecution depending on their level of involvement.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
- State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
- Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
- Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences
Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Home health fraud is a subcategory of Medicare and Medicaid fraud that specifically targets the fraudulent billing for in-home health services — such as skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. To qualify for Medicare benefits, the person receiving care 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 Van Nuys, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Commonly accused individuals include physical therapists, administrative workers, and physicians performing the diagnoses.
Critical Note: 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 — even if you broke the law accidentally.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus penalties per false claim
- Administrative: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal; agency decertification
Violent Theft Charges We Fight in Van Nuys, CA
Violent crime charges and theft charges often go hand in hand in Van Nuys, 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. This is in contrast to burglary, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. Carjacking is to grand theft auto what robbery is to burglary.
That said, sometimes what started out as a burglary can end up with violent crime charges. 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 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 the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. For example, if a person would commit extortion if she saw a man commit a crime, and threatened to turn him in if he didn't pay her.
Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft
If you allegedly threatened or attacked someone in the course of committing theft, your case is even more serious. You're almost guaranteed to be facing felony charges. Your Van Nuys, CA theft crimes lawyer should be someone who knows how to fight violent crime charges as well — at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience successfully defending against both.
Robbery — California Penal Code § 211
Robbery is 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 Van Nuys, 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
Extortion occurs when someone threatens another person — with violence, property damage, accusation of a crime, or exposure of damaging information — in order to obtain money, property, or an official act. Not every extortion case involves threats of violence; several involve threats to harm someone's reputation instead.
Common examples: Threatening to report someone for a crime unless paid; threatening to post compromising photos of someone online if they leave; threatening to harm someone's reputation unless granted a professional favor.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Burglary Charges We Defend in Van Nuys, CA
Burglary is often charged along with theft in Van Nuys, CA. In California, you can be charged with this crime if you break into a site to either commit theft or break a different law. Ordinarily, this is a structure, like a retail store (in which case it would be 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.
Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, what you were allegedly planning to do in a location can be just as important as how you got access to it.
Burglary Related Charges
Shoplifting also involves the theft of items from a store, similar to commercial burglary. Prior to 2014, what is now classified as shoplifting would be considered burglary in California. But after Proposition 47's passing in 2014, shoplifting was reclassified as its own offense. It took effect immediately and made several changes to reduce penalties for certain nonviolent property and drug crimes. One key reform was distinguishing shoplifting as a specific misdemeanor offense and preventing it from being charged as burglary (a "wobbler" that could be a felony) in qualifying cases.
Vandalism also shares many qualities with burglary. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by breaking a window to in the process of a theft. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in Van Nuys, CA, heightening your need for a top quality theft crimes lawyer to protect your rights.
Lastly, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in Van Nuys, 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
People commonly think of burglary as entering someone's house to commit theft, but that's not how Van Nuys, CA law works — 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
In California, first-degree burglary, sometimes called residential burglary, involves going to someone's dwelling place with the intent to commit a theft or any felony inside. You do not have to actually steal anything. The reason that you went there 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 Van Nuys, CA courts are likely to give you a long sentence. Without the right theft crimes defense lawyer, you're fighting an uphill battle
Possible Penalties:
- Prison: 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 covers entering any non-residential structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony — stores, offices, warehouses, garages, and other commercial buildings. You could face either misdemeanor or felony charges for this offense.
Your theft crimes lawyer in Van Nuys, CA will need to be acutely aware of the difference between shoplifting and commercial burglary — this could be key in getting your charges reduced, if possible.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Charge Type: Wobbler
Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459
Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. This charge commonly arises when someone smashes a car window to take items left inside. The details of this charge are different from case to case, because burglary of a vehicle could either be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor.
Key distinction: Stealing from an unlocked vehicle does not qualify for a burglary charge. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, but the burglary enhancement requires that the vehicle was secured in some way.
Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211
At the intersection of burglary and violent crimes are home invasion charges. Van Nuys, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. If you're up against these charges, it's not good enough to settle for second-best — you need a leading theft crimes lawyer on your side.
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 facing 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 & Other Offenses
Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing
While not theft charges in and of themselves, vandalism, trespassing, perjury, and receiving stolen property charges are closely associated and often charged together. Your Van Nuys, CA, theft crimes lawyer will need to balance all of the allegations and form a narrative to defeat them.
Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496
You don't have to steal something to face theft-related criminal charges. Buying, selling, or disguising something that was stolen can lead to these charges.
These cases often hinge on your mental state — namely, whether or not you were (or should have been) aware that the item was stolen. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items at an unusually low price, without receipts, or from unknown sellers, does not automatically mean you had knowledge of theft.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Vandalism — California Penal Code § 594
Vandalism is the malicious defacement, damage, or destruction of another person's property. It is often charged alongside burglary when, for example, a window is broken to gain entry to a home or vehicle. It also applies to graffiti, which is one of the most commonly prosecuted forms of vandalism in Van Nuys, 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
- Additional: Graffiti cleanup, community service
Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602
Trespassing is another property crime, though it doesn't involve stealing (directly). Trespassing is when one person goes onto someone else's property when they aren't supposed to be, and/or refuses to exit. In many cases, because thefts often involve entering a location where one is not supposed to be, trespassing is charged alongside other offenses.
On its own, trespassing is most often charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, Van Nuys, 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
Perjury charges aren't unique to theft crimes, but are commonly seen alongside them. You can be found guilty of perjury if you lie to the police or during a trial. In theft cases, this can occur if you were interviewed by the police and stated you did not know where any of the stolen property was, even if you did.
Do not make this mistake: Anything you say during an investigation or prosecution can be used to support a perjury charge if it's later shown to be false. This is why we always advise clients to say nothing without a theft crimes attorney present.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
Specialized & Enhanced Charges
Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes
Sometimes, two very similar theft offenses can receive very different charges. This can hinge on details such as what was allegedly stolen and/or who the alleged victim was.
Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)
Under California Penal Code § 487(d)(2), theft of a firearm is always grand theft — regardless of the weapon's monetary value. This means the theft of even a low-value firearm will end up with a felony charge. Grand theft of a firearm is considered a serious felony and can count as a strike under California's Three Strikes law.
As if fighting the charges in your local Van Nuys, CA court weren't bad enough, you could also find yourself up against federal charges. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more critical to have an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.
Possible Penalties:
- Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Strike: Serious felony — potential strike offense
- Federal: Additional federal charges possible
Theft from an Elder / Financial Elder Abuse — Welfare & Institutions Code § 15610.30
If the alleged victim was 65 or older, you might be up against elevated penalties. You can be accused of financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) if you were allegedly in a position of trust for an older adult, and took advantage of their money.
The prosecution in Van Nuys, 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.
Examples: Caregiver overcharging for services; family member using power of attorney to take money; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; phising emails that impersonate loved ones.
Possible Penalties:
- Base Sentence: Same as underlying theft offense
- Enhancement (65+): +1 year consecutive if loss $65,000–$200,000
- Enhancement (70+): Additional consecutive years for large losses
- Civil Liability: Up to 3× damages in civil court
Looting — California Penal Code § 463
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.
If the enhanced penalties weren't enough on their own, the Van Nuys, 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. Looting of a business that is closed due to a civil disturbance, or taking property from an evacuated residence, commonly triggers these charges.
Potential Penalties (Enhanced):
- Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
- Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
- Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
- Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods
Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery
Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in Van Nuys, CA. Attempted theft, burglary, or robbery in California needs to include: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — whatever the outcome was.
The general rule is that attempted crimes are punished at half the sentence of the completed offense. 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. Our theft crime lawyers will fight against these charges to create reasonable doubt and position us for favorable negotiations.
Regardless of what charge you're facing, when you contact us, you can talk to an expert theft crimes lawyer in Van Nuys, CA, who will listen to your side of the story and build a defense around that. As a team, we will defend your rights and your freedom.
Facing Theft Allegations? These Are Your Next Steps
Theft allegations are just the tip of the iceberg. You're up against the Van Nuys, CA, prosecutor's office, the alleged victim is accusing you, and you need to defend your reputation as well as your innocence. Trying to handle it yourself, the odds can seem insurmountable.
But you have another option. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is here to help. When you work with us, you will get a Van Nuys, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. To get started, use the five steps below to protect your freedom and avoid common pitfalls:
1. Comply With the Police
Mistakes here can hurt your case. If you're being arrested, don't resist. Respectfully complying with the police officers will make the process go smoother. Resisting can only get you into more trouble.
2. Keep Calm and Stay Silent
It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – stay silent. In fact, don't even talk on the ride to the station. Your answers can later be used as evidence in the case, and you say something untruthful, you can be charged with perjury.
3. Reach Out to a Van Nuys, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away
In California, you will be given the opportunity to make three completed phone calls after being arrested. One of these should be to your theft crimes lawyer. Getting legal assistance quickly can protect you from making mistakes that will come back to hurt you later. You can reach us at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
4. Secure Bail for Release
Before you can leave the jail, you'll probably have to go through a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will fight for your pre-trial release and lower bail requirements. You are innocent until proven guilty, and should enjoy your freedom while your case proceeds.
5. Coordinate With Your Lawyer to Make a Personalized Defense
This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in Van Nuys, CA, will take the time to listen to you, negotiate for deals with the state, and argue for charges to be dismissed whenever possible.
Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges
As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy needs to be oriented to the specific facts, evidence, and allegations. If you're up against theft allegations in Van Nuys, CA, here are some of the main defensive strategies your theft crimes lawyer should consider. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we have experience with all of them.
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. Where that intent cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, no theft conviction can stand regardless of the circumstances of the taking.
A related defense is the "claim of right" defense, where someone states that they believed they were allowed to take the property. This applies as long as they honestly believed they were allowed to, even if they were incorrect. If a defendant sincerely believed the property was theirs, owed to them as payment, or that they had permission to take it, this can negate the required criminal intent. The belief does not have to be correct; it only has to be genuine. More related defenses consist of: mistake of fact (the accused took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (applicable in cases where someone took an item without permission, but also planned to bring it back).
Key principle: The prosecution bears the burden of proving criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt — the defendant does not have to prove innocence. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. This is a key part of nearly all theft defenses, particularly in cases involving family disagreements, where sometimes people can forget about who the formal owner of a piece of property is and unintentionally misuse it.
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 state needs to follow rules when building its case. One critically important one is the 4th Amendment, which stops authorities from performing illegal searches and seizures. In theft and burglary cases, the Van Nuys, CA, police department will gather evidence through searches. If the authorities disobeyed regulations, the evidence can be suppressed and the state may be unable to proceed.
Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: searches conducted without either a warrant or just cause; searches conducted under a warrant obtained through false or misleading information in the supporting affidavit; arrests without probable cause resulting in an invalid search incident to arrest; GPS tracking or digital surveillance conducted without appropriate legal authority; 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 — suppression of unlawfully abstained evidence motions can destroy the prosecution's argument, leading to dropped or dismissed charges.
If this applies to your case, it can be a major win for your defense. Even partial suppression — if the court allows some evidence but not all of it — can be the difference between a conviction and acquittal. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Van Nuys, CA, courts, and are a standard component of aggressive defense in all property crime cases.
Suppression Scenarios:
- Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
- Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, permission, or a recognized exception such as probable cause
- Digital Evidence / Cell Phones: Require a warrant under Riley v. California (2014)
- Fruit of the Poisonous Tree: Evidence derived from an illegal search may also be excluded
False Accusation / Misidentification
Whether because of malice or a simple mistake, sometimes innocent people get accused of theft in Van Nuys, CA. False accusations can arise from personal disagreements, misidentification by witnesses, mistaken assumptions about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or deliberate fabrication by a party with a motive to harm the accused. Even if you're innocent, you're still at risk of going to prison for something you didn't do — without a strong defensive strategy, you're gambling with your freedom.
One of the ways that innocent people are commonly accused in Van Nuys, CA is by eyewitnesses mistaking them for the offender. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — most notably across racial lines, under poor lighting conditions, or when things moved too fast. Studies consistently show that witness confidence does not correlate with accuracy. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Van Nuys, 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 alleged victim; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.
If you are innocent: Stay away from witnesses, do not try to build your defense on your own, and do not attempt to explain your innocence to police without your theft attorney present. You might make a mistake, or the police might misinterpret something you say. Before speaking to the police, call the Law Offices of David S. Chesley. We're here to protect your rights and defend your innocence.
Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the state must prove you knew the property was obtained through theft. We challenge this element aggressively — many people unknowingly purchase stolen goods with no way to verify their origin.
Consent / Permission — Consent is the defining feature behind many theft charges; if you didn't have permission to use take an item, you could be found guilty. In cases where the alleged offender did take the object or enter the property, but had the right to do so, this can be a highly effective defense.
Rights Violations — From Miranda rights violations to due process claims, we examine your case for every constitutional protection that may have been violated — and use those violations to suppress evidence, challenge the prosecution's case, or secure a dismissal.
Sentencing Alternatives — For many first-time offenders, California offers sentencing alternatives that can keep you out of prison by participating. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.
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'll show the true value of the property and argue for lesser charges.
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. 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 have any pending criminal charges against you; and — as a more recent restriction — in several cases, must not have served time in state prison (though SB 731 and related reforms have expanded relief options for some state prison cases).
If you were not given probation, there are still options for you — Penal Code § 1203.4a provides another form of conviction relief. Arguably, the best cases are those which were dismissed without any form of conviction. In these cases, instead of expunging the conviction, the arrest record can be sealed.
When you work with a theft lawyer to clear your record, you can look forward to the following perks: Of note, job applications become a lot easier, as you won't have to mention your conviction. That said, the criminal record isn't entirely thrown away by expungement — it doesn't allow gun ownership, doesn't prevent the conviction from impacting future cases, and does not affect most professional licensing decisions. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) created expanded automatic record relief for many non-violent and non-serious felony convictions in California, allowing eligible individuals to obtain relief without filing a petition after completing their sentence and remaining crime-free for a specified period.
Important: Even after typically California expungement proceedings under § 1203.4, your criminal record can still be seen by the police and certain other organizations. If your goal is full sealing, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, you'll have to look into other ways to have your record sealed. Consulting with an experienced attorney before pursuing any post-conviction relief is strongly advisable.
Relief Options:
- PC § 1203.4: Dismissal after successful probation completion
- PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (available 1 year after the conviction)
- PC § 851.91: Arrest record sealing where no conviction resulted
- SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
- Limitations: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases
Common Theft Crimes Questions in Van Nuys, CA
Is there a difference between petty theft and grand theft in Van Nuys, California?
How much was allegedly stolen determines the specific theft charge. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. Anything over $950, guns, or vehicles all result in grand theft charges, which can either be a misdemeanor or a felony. Grand theft charges will require elite legal representation in particular, though you will always need a theft crimes lawyer to defend you, regardless of the specifics.
Is it possible to expunge a theft conviction in California?
Frequently, yes. California Penal Code § 1203.4 allows for expungement of misdemeanor and many felony theft convictions after successful completion of probation. If you want to leave the past behind and move on with your life, this can be a major step forward. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.
What should I expect from first-time shoplifting charges in Van Nuys, CA?
First-time shoplifting charges in California are typically misdemeanors under Proposition 47 (for amounts under $950). Many first-time offenders are eligible for diversion programs that can result in a dismissal upon completing community service or a theft prevention course. Our theft crimes attorneys can make a major difference and help you with avoiding a conviction and protecting your record.
I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?
In many cases, being unaware of stolen property's origins can make for a strong defense. If you genuinely didn't know and had no reasonable basis to suspect it, that is a strong defense. This is a strategy we frequently lean on in receiving stolen property cases. Keep in mind, though, that circumstances like strangely good deal or no documentation of ownership can erode your case, which is why an attorney is essential.
How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Van Nuys, CA?
Very serious. In Van Nuys, CA, grand theft auto is almost always prosecuted as a felony, which means potential prison time (up to three years), fines up to $10,000, and a felony record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have any prior convictions, you may also face enhanced sentencing. Call one of our theft crimes lawyers immediately at (800) 755-5174.
What is a "wobbler" offense in California?
A wobbler is an offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor's discretion. Several 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?
Not necessarily. Many theft cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail time through diversion programs, probation, community service, or fines. 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 review what options exist in your case.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Yes. California defines burglary as entering a structure with the intent to commit theft or a felony inside. Whether or not you committed theft is irrelevant — the prosecution's goal is to show that you trespassed and had that event. Because of this, intent evidence — and how it's presented — is central to burglary defense.
Looking for a Van Nuys, CA, Theft Lawyer? Call Now.
Every theft allegation is a big deal. Our attorneys are equipped to defend you — no matter when you need us. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.
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