Theft Lawyer West Covina, CA. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they're facing 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're up against the toughest battle of your life, don't give up yet. You have a team who will defend your freedom: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our attorneys have what it takes to guard your freedom against the prosecution. With a West Covina, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team at your side, you can rest assured that you're getting expert legal representation.
Connect with a theft crimes lawyer right away at (800) 755-5174 or connect with us online for a free, confidential consultation. It's easy to get started, and acting fast can mean everything.
The Importance of a Theft Lawyer in West Covina, CA
You should never take theft allegations lightly, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. If you don't have an attorney, you're stuck trying to decipher a complicated legal code and make it more likely that you'll face the following:
- Jail Sentence: West Covina, CA, theft convictions can send you to prison, for years in some cases.
- Fines: You can lose hundreds or thousands of dollars in addition to paying recompense to the alleged victim.
- Loss of Employmnet: Extended stints in jail can prevent you from doing your job, and cause you to lose it.
- Stained Reputation: Even if you make it past everything else, the reputation as a "criminal" can stick with you.
- And more.
A West Covina, CA, theft crimes lawyer can protect your rights and fight against these outcomes. You need the Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Look at what makes us the right attorneys for the job:
Why You Should Hire Our West Covina, CA Theft Defense Lawyers
Picking the right West Covina, CA theft crimes defense lawyer can make all the difference for your case. Here's what you get when you call us — and why it matters for your theft case:
- Former District Attorneys & Judges — We know exactly how the state builds a theft case because some of our attorneys have done it themselves. We know common weak points and how to attack the prosecution's case.
- Deep 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 not only ensures that we're prepared, but also helps us secure more favorable plea deals or get your case dismissed.
- Record Expungement Services — Our representation doesn't end at the verdict. We offer record clearing and expungement services to help you move on and protect your future career and opportunities.
- Excellent Reputation – We are renowned professionally and by clients.
- Always Availalbe — Arrests happen at all hours. So do we. If you need help or an update, you can get a hold of us, whenever it is.
- Fully Confidential — Attorney-client privilege protects you, whatever you tell us about your case. You can tell us everything, and we will respect your story while crafting your defense.
Theft Charges We Will Fight in West Covina, CA
Click any charge below to navigate directly to a full explanation of the law, consequences, and additional information.
Attempted Burglary | Attempted Robbery | Bribery | Burglary (Residential) | Burglary of a Vehicle | Carjacking | Commercial Burglary | Credit Card Fraud | Elder Financial Abuse | Embezzlement | Extortion | Forgery | Fraud / False Pretenses | Grand Theft | Grand Theft Auto | Grand Theft of a Firearm | Health Care Fraud | Home Health Fraud | Home Invasion Burglary | Hospice Fraud | Identity Theft | Insurance Fraud | Joyriding | Looting | Medicare Fraud | Money Laundering | Perjury | Petty Theft | Petty Theft with a Prior | Possession of Stolen Vehicle | Receiving Stolen Property | Robbery | Shoplifting (PC 459.5) | Theft from an Elder | Trespassing | Vandalism | Vehicle Theft | Welfare Fraud | White Collar Crimes
Theft Cases We Fight in West Covina, CA
Our attorneys know how to fight theft crime cases. Should you need a theft crimes lawyer in West Covina, CA, don't wait: contact us right away for a free, confidential consultation.
Our lawyers can help you fight all of the following allegations:
Petty Theft Charges vs Grand Theft Charges
In West Covina, CA, many theft accusations fall under one of these two charges: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property without permission. The main difference is the amount that was supposedly taken: If it was $950 or less, the classification will ordinarily be petty theft, while higher values will ordinarily be grand theft.
Fighting petty theft charges often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. However, fighting grand theft charges is usually more challenging because it is more frequently charged as a felony. In either case, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.
Below, we've written a table to summarize the differences between petty theft and grand theft:
| Theft Accusation | Petty Theft | Grand Theft |
|---|---|---|
| Stolen Property Value | $950 or Less | More than $950 |
| Charge Type? | Often 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
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.
Before Prop 47, what we now call "shoplifting" was prosecuted as burglary — a felony. Since Proposition 47, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that felony charges can still be applied in certain situations, like an organized shoplifting ring. Whether you're up against a felony or misdemeanor charge, a local West Covina, CA theft crimes lawyer can help you maximize your chances of a positive outcome.
Organized retail theft (either a crime ring or repeated instances of shoplifting) is increasingly prosecuted aggressively by West Covina, CA, prosecutors following recent state legislation.
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
Defensive strategies are: Lack of intent to steal, innocence, entrapment by loss prevention, unlawful search and seizure, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.
Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666
Petty theft charges are usually misdemeanors, but not always. Because of Penal Code § 666, a petty theft with a prior can be charged as a felony. Not every prior offense in West Covina, 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 prosecution must establish: (1) the suspect committed petty theft; and (2) the suspect has previously been found guilty for certain crimes, mostly theft related — particularly where the defendant served time in jail or prison for that prior. Proposition 47 (2014) significantly narrowed the statute's reach, but did not eliminate it. While most of the applicable prior convictions are theft related, they also include some sexual and violent crimes.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Applicable Priors: Previous theft, burglary, robbery, or carjacking convictions
Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in West Covina, CA
There are several vehicle theft charges we defend in West Covina, CA. An example that many people ask about is grand theft auto, but that's technically not a law of its own. Grand theft auto comes from a section of California's 'grand theft' law, which makes the theft of a vehicle always 'grand theft,' even if it was under $950 in value.
If the prosecution is stating that someone took the vehicle and was planning to keep it for themselves, not return it, they're likely going to face grand theft auto charges. If the alleged offender wasn't going to keep it, they're more likely to be charged with joyriding. While each of these vehicle crimes are 'wobbler' offenses, it's almost always better to be charged with joyriding in West Covina, 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". Similar to receiving stolen property, you don't have to have actually stolen anything to be convicted of this crime. Simply owning or keeping the vehicle is enough for a conviction.
When you work with us, you'll get a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has relationships with the local courts and can argue for reduced charges in many cases. Call now to start making your case.
Grand Theft Auto — California Penal Code § 487(d)(1)
Grand theft auto is not a standalone California crime — instead, it is a subset of the general "grand theft" statute, which says that any automobile theft is considered grand theft. This means even stealing a beater worth $200 can result in a grand theft auto charge.
Grand theft auto charges often hinge on your intentions during the alleged theft — if you were going to bring it back, then it wasn't technically a theft, it was joyriding.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in West Covina, CA)
- Felony Prison Sentence: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail Sentence: Up to 1 year
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Vehicle Code § 10851 is commonly charged with or in place of grand theft auto. Unlike grand theft auto, this statute does not require intent to permanently deprive the owner. Simply taking or driving someone's vehicle without permission is enough.
Grand theft auto is a more serious offense, but is also harder for prosecutors to secure convictions for. Because of this, they often use § 10851 instead.
Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851
Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. 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 West Covina, CA, making it critical to get an expert vehicle theft crimes lawyer to defend you.
In most circumstances, West Covina, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. However, prior criminal history or aggravating circumstances can push it to a felony.
| Joyriding | Grand Theft Auto | |
|---|---|---|
| Key Distinction | Intent to return | Intent to keep permanently |
| Normal Charge | Misdemeanor | Felony |
| Misdemeanor Jail | Up to 1 year | — |
| Felony Prison | — | 16 months, 2, or 3 years |
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. Due to the violent nature of the crime, carjacking is always a felony and often has a mandatory prison sentence, as probation is not an option.
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
Many people are shocked to learn they can be convicted of a theft-related crime without actually having stolen anything. If you have a car that you knew or should have known was stolen, you can be charged under PC § 496d — even if you had no role in the original theft.
This charge can sneak up on you, especially if you ever have purchased a vehicle outside of formal sales channels. The state 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 West Covina, CA
White collar crimes in West Covina, CA, can be any one of a variety of charges, but they all have one thing in common: misusing professional power for financial gain.
Most white collar crimes are defined by how money is transferred. 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 is about illegal gifts done for a favor or another benefit. An example of this would be an employee giving money to their boss in exchange for a promotion.
Not all white-collar crimes involve financial exchanges, though (at least at face value). Forgery can be as simple as signing another person's signature without permission, and identity theft involves stealing someone's personal information. In both forgery and identity theft cases, you don't need to have stolen someone else's money to be found guilty.
Forgery, Identity Theft, Fraud & More
It's easy to think that white collar accusations aren't taken as seriously as violent crimes in West Covina, CA, but you'd be wrong. The punishments can be dire — prison sentences, massive fines, major career setbacks, and permanent stains on your reputation. To protect yourself against these consequences, it's critical to have a theft crimes lawyer with local experience and expertise in your corner.
White Collar Crimes — Synopsis
The term "white collar crime" describes non-violent financial offenses typically committed in business or professional settings. For an alleged crime to qualify, it should feature the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. It's common for white collar crime cases in West Covina, CA, to require specialized experts on both the prosecution and defensive sides.
In contrast to other crime categories (like DUIs, where police may cite you immediately at a checkpoint), state investigators can spend a long time building a case before you are formally accused. Call us now if you have any reason to believe the police are looking into you. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.
Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503
Embezzlement is different from other forms of theft. For an embezzlement charge, the alleged offender would have lawful access to the property, just not for personal use. The key element is the pre-existing lawful access — embezzlers have legitimate control over the money or property they steal.
Common contexts: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a bookkeeper writing unauthorized checks to themselves; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; an employee skimming from cash registers; 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: Repay alleged victims, 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 (adding the dirty money into the legitimate financial system), layering (disguising the trail through complex transactions), and integration (making the funds appear legitimate).
California's money laundering law aims at transactions over $5,000 that involved illegally obtained funds, so long as the person involved knew they were illegal. Federal money laundering charges (18 U.S.C. § 1956) can also apply, risking up to two decades of prison time.
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
You can face bribery charges for offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in order to affect the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law criminalizes bribery in many contexts — elected officials, judges, legislators, business executives, witnesses, and even private commercial bribery. Regardless of what the specifics of your case, a West Covina, CA, theft crimes lawyer is critical to protect you from the prosecution.
Important: Both the person offering the bribe and the person accepting it can be charged in West Covina, CA. Even an attempt to bribe can result in criminal charges, regardless of whether the other party accepts.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Felony
- Prison: 2, 3, or 4 years state prison
- Public Officials: Permanent disqualification from office
- Federal: Up to 15 years (if federal officials involved)
Forgery — California Penal Code § 470
Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers bills, receipts, stock certificates, vehicle titles, power of attorney documents, warrants, prescriptions, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.
What if I didn't steal anything with it? You can be charged with forgery even if no one was actually defrauded. Just the plan to commit fraud, in addition to the act of creating or using the forged document, is sufficient to be convicted.
Possible Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
Identity Theft — California Penal Code § 530.5
You can face identity theft allegations in West Covina, CA if you use someone else's personal information without permission to perform a restricted activity, such as obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.
Crucially: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Just taking and using another individual's information without permission is enough to warrant a crime under California statute § 530.5. Because of this, you need to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the details of your case.
West Covina, CA, identity theft allegations are very serious, and often result in federal charges if the internet was involved, or the supposed victim and alleged offender were in different states.
Potential Penalties:
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Per Victim: Charges can stack — one count per victim
- Federal: Up to 15–30 years (aggravated cases)
Fraud Charges We Fight in West Covina, CA
Fraud encompasses a variety of specific theft types in West Covina, CA. 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 charged with fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.
Insurance fraud is a popular type of fraud in West Covina, CA, wherein someone lies to an insurance company to collect more money than they are supposed to. As an example, a person who intentionally burns down their house then tells the insurance company that it was an accident can be charged with insurance fraud.
A related fraud crime is welfare fraud, where a person lies about their current circumstances to receive extra assistance from the government. An example of this would be claiming a child as a dependent to receive financial support, when the child has in fact moved out.
Another notable form is credit card fraud. This one is a little different because instead of representing someone about themselves, for credit card fraud, normally a person is lying about the credit card they are using. If the card is counterfeit or expired, but you allegedly try to use it anyways, you can face these charges.
An expert theft crimes lawyer in West Covina, CA, can help you navigate the differences between all of these fraud charges, and try to find a deal that gives you the best outcome possible.
Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception
There are many types of fraud allegations in West Covina, CA — it could be as little as a seemingly white lie or as major as large an organized insurance fraud ring. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to have experience not only with the state law, but also following financial trails.
Theft by False Pretenses / Fraud — California Penal Code § 532
Theft by false pretenses is one of the most common fraud charges in West Covina. These allegations are used when a person intentionally deceives another through false statements or misrepresentations, leading to the second person willingly giving away goods or services. Theft by false pretenses is distinct because the supposed victim intentionally parts with their valuables, as opposed to robbery, where they are taken by force.
Common examples: Lying about being a contest winner; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; creating fake invoices; lying about the condition of goods sold.
The charge level (misdemeanor vs. felony) depends on the value of the property obtained through fraud, using the same $950 threshold as petty/grand theft.
Insurance Fraud — California Penal Code § 550
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. Insurance fraud charges are always a big deal, and are often felonies in West Covina, CA. A leading theft crimes lawyer will defend your freedom and analyze all the evidence to help you find the best outcome possible
Frequent examples include: Claiming existing auto damage is newly occuring; filing false theft reports; inflating repair cost claims; arson for insurance proceeds; fabricating injuries; health insurance billing fraud.
Potential Penalties:
- Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Fines: Up to $150,000 or twice what was defrauded
- Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
- Additional: License revocation for professionals
Credit Card Fraud — California Penal Code § 484e–484j
You can face credit card fraud charges in West Covina, CA, for a variety of actions done with a credit or debit card. This includes using someone else's card without consent, using a card that has been stolen or counterfeited, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or fraudulently taking or selling card account information.
Regarding federal charges: It's common in California credit card fraud cases for there to also be federal charges, especially when accounts are used across state lines or the internet is involved. Federal penalties are significantly more severe, and our team of theft crime lawyers has experience handling both state and federal fraud cases.
Possible Penalties (State):
- Charge Type: Wobbler
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Federal Prison: Up to 15 years (federal charges)
Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980
Charges of welfare fraud in West Covina, CA, can range widely in their specifics, but all have one thing in common: Deceiving the government in order to receive some kind of welfare benefit. Similar to other types of fraud, this could be part of an isolated individual incident or a widespread organized crime ring.
Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; using fake identities to collect extra benefits; using another person's EBT card; falsely claiming a dependent child; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.
Welfare fraud investigations are conducted by county district attorney welfare fraud units and can result in both criminal charges and demands for repayment of all benefits received. A local West Covina, CA, theft crimes lawyer can push back against the prosecution's case and boost your chances of a positive outcome.
Possible Penalties:
- Under $950 (typically): Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
- Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
- Repayment: Full restitution to the government
Additional: Loss of future benefit eligibility
Hospice Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / California Penal Code § 550
Hospice fraud accusations in West Covina, 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 legally receiveMedicare 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 — it's common for the prosecution to allege that the patient's condition did not meet this criteria in these cases.
While highly unfortunate, hospice fraud allegations can arise from misunderstandings on the part of the patient's family. Grieving family members can erroneously blame health care professionals who were dedicated to helping their patients. West Covina, 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.
Warning: Hospice fraud investigations frequently involve parallel criminal and civil proceedings. 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)
- 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. And as if regular theft crime allegations weren't bad enough, Medicare fraud is often tried at the federal level. If you want to protect your freedom, you'll need an expert West Covina, CA theft lawyer who has your back.
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. Medicare fraud investigations are especially tricky to detect, because they often involve datasets rather than on-the-ground investigators. This means that the first warning sign that you're being investigated can come too late to clear things up.
Important: The United States also has a law (the Anti-Kickback Statute – 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b) which makes it a form of Medicare fraud to offer payment for Medicare-related referrals. You can be accused of breaking this law whether you gave or received the money.
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 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.
Under California Penal Code § 550, health insurance fraud is independently criminalized at the state level. California law 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. Without an expert West Covina, CA theft lawyer, you could be stuck trying to sift through mountains of medical billing records and other specialized evidence on your own. Physicians, billing organizations, office workers, and clerical staff have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.
Potential Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count (18 U.S.C. § 1347)
- If Death Results: Up to life imprisonment (federal)
- State Felony: 2, 3, or 5 years (CA PC § 550)
- Fines: Up to $250,000 (individual) or $500,000 (organization)
- Additional: Restitution, professional license consequences
Home Health Fraud — 18 U.S.C. § 1347 / 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b
Home health fraud, like other health care fraud types, also consists of making false statements to an insurance or government health care entity. The difference is that it describes specific types of healthcare services — including skilled nursing visits, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and home health aide services. To qualify for Medicare benefits, the care recipient 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. 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 West Covina, CA. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.
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. Violations result in civil monetary penalties and Medicare exclusion entirely separate from any criminal prosecution — even if you broke the law accidentally.
Possible Penalties:
- Federal Prison: Up to 10 years per count
- Anti-Kickback Violations: Up to 10 years per violation
- Civil FCA Liability: Treble damages plus penalties per false claim
- Administrative: Exclusion from Medicare/Medi-Cal; agency decertification
Violent Theft Charges We Defend in West Covina, CA
There is often a crossover between theft and violent crime charges in West Covina, CA. This can occur if you're charged with robbery. A person commits robbery when they take something directly from another person by force. As opposed to burglary, where the alleged victim is not present during the act. Carjacking is similar to this—it involves the forceful taking of a vehicle, as opposed to grand theft auto which does not require violence or threats.
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 relies more on threats than actual violence to commit a theft. If someone says they will hurt another person unless the alleged victim gives them money, that is extortion. The alleged offender doesn't necessarily need to threaten 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
Many theft crimes we outlined above do not involve violence. For charges that do, though, it's common to see much harsher sentencing. These charges are always felonies and often carry strike designations. Immediate West Covina, CA, legal counsel is non-negotiable.
Robbery — California Penal Code § 211
Robbery is taking property from another person directly, using force or fear. This is the key distinction from burglary — the victim must be present. All robbery charges in California are felonies.
The state of California divides robbery charges into two degrees:
- First-Degree Robbery: This is charged when the alleged offense took place:
- In someone's house, vehicle, or other building,
- In a taxi, or
- While the alleged victim was using an ATM
- Second-Degree Robbery: This is charged in any other circumstances
The penalties are usually worse for first-degree robbery.
Potential Penalties:
- 1st Degree Prison: 3, 4, or 6 years
- 2nd Degree Prison: 2, 3, or 5 years
- Weapon Use: +3 to 10 years
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony
Extortion (Blackmail) — California Penal Code § 518
A person can be convicted of extortion if they coerce someone using threats, rather than force. The goal of extortion is normally to acquire some sort of benefit, either financial or through an action of the victim. Not every extortion case involves threats of violence; several involve threats to harm someone's reputation instead.
Common examples: Threatening to report someone to immigration authorities unless paid; threatening to release private photos unless money is provided; 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 West Covina, CA
Burglary technically isn't always a theft crime, but it is closely related. 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 storefront (in which case it would be commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you supposedly smashed a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.
Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, you can almost always be charged with trespassing, too. Due to this, 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 is closely related 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. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in West Covina, CA (except in extreme cases).
Another related charge is vandalism. You can be charged with vandalism in California if you purposely damage another person's property, such as by kicking in a door to burglarize someone's home. It's very likely that you'll be charged with both burglarizing and vandalizing a location together in West Covina, CA, making it all the more important to get an experienced theft crimes lawyer to fight for your freedom.
Finally, even if you don't commit a theft, you can face related charges in West Covina, CA. What can lead to this? Receiving stolen property charges. If you allegedly buy or take something that you know is stolen, or help the person who stole it hide the property, you can face these charges.
Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges
California burglary law is broader than most people realize — you can be charged with burglary for entering a wide range of structures with the intent to commit a crime inside, even if you never actually steal anything.
Residential Burglary (First Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
The different degrees of burglary depend on the location of the alleged crime. You can be convicted of first-degree burglary if you break into someone's residence for the purpose of committing a theft or any felony inside. This means that you can be found guilty even without actually committing theft. The reason that you went there is the key to burglary charges.
Residential burglary is always a felony and is considered a "strike" offense. This is one of the most serious theft-adjacent charges in California law, and West Covina, 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
Possible Penalties:
- Prison Term: 2, 4, or 6 years in state prison
- Three Strikes: Yes — serious felony strike
- Probation: Generally not an option for first-degree
- Fines: Up to $10,000
Commercial Burglary (Second Degree) — California Penal Code § 459
Although less serious than first-degree burglary, second-degree burglary (AKA commercial burglary) charges are still not to be taken lightly. Unlike residential burglary, commercial burglary is a wobbler and can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony.
Commercial burglary is closely related to shoplifting, and used to be the same offense. However, the passage of Proposition 47 in 2014 distinguished the two, and it's possible your theft crimes lawyer will use this to advantage in your case.
Possible Penalties:
- Felony Prison: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
- Misdemeanor Jail: Up to 1 year
- Charge Type: Wobbler
Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459
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. Unlike residential burglary, vehicle burglary is a wobbler.
Key distinction: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. This would still likely be prosecuted as theft, but for it to be burglary, the vehicle must have been protected.
Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211
At the intersection of burglary and violent crimes are home invasion charges. West Covina, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. Without the help of an experienced theft crimes lawyer, you could be looking at over a decade in prison.
As with other burglary charges, home invasion burglary charges don't tend to exist in a vacuum — you're likely also facing other theft or violent crimes charges. If you are up against home invasion charges, you need the most experienced criminal defense team available, and you need them right away.
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
These offenses are frequently charged alongside primary theft crimes and can significantly compound the penalties you face. Your West Covina, 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
This charge applies to some people who are indirectly involved in a theft. Buying, selling, or disguising something that was stolen can lead to these charges.
Receiving stolen property charges can fall apart if you can prove you weren't aware that the item was stolen. At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we often argue this point in these cases. Buying items at a great deal, without receipts, 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 charges are about more than just graffiti; if West Covina, CA, you can be accused of vandalism for damaging someone else's property. This relates to theft if you allegedly caused property damage in the process of stealing something (for example, kicking in the door).
Vandalism can either be a misdemeanor or a felony in California: For damage under $400, it's a misdemeanor, while for anything over, it's a felony.
Potential Penalties:
- Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
- Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
- Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
- Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service
Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602
Trespassing involves entering or remaining on another person's property without permission. In the context of theft crimes, trespassing charges frequently accompany burglary or other property offense charges — because burglary inherently involves unauthorized entry.
On its own, trespassing is typically charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, when combined with other charges (particularly burglary), the trespassing element can be used to establish elements of more serious offenses. Fighting these charges is often a matter of whether or not the alleged offender did in fact have permission or the right to be there.
Perjury — California Penal Code § 118
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: 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
Not all alleged thefts are treated equally; in the cases listed below, you can face harsher penalties and elevated charges. Your theft crimes lawyer will need to be prepared to battle for your freedom. And at the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we are.
Grand Theft of a Firearm — California Penal Code § 487(d)(2)
California law treats firearms very seriously, restricting their availability and usage. Regarding theft, current statutes regarding firearm theft ignore the value of the device and always make it grand theft. This means stealing even a nearly worthless 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 West Covina, CA court weren't bad enough, you could also find yourself up against federal charges. When you're fighting in two courts, it becomes substantially more complicated to avoid a guilty plea. And it's even more critical to find 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. 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.
This offense is aggressively prosecuted in West Covina, CA, and enhanced sentencing applies. If the victim is 70 years or older, additional consecutive prison time can be added. People convicted of financial elder abuse often also have to repay the alleged victim, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.
Examples: Caregiver taking money from a client's account; family member exerting undue influence over an elder's finances; fake contractor promises work but never completes it; fraudulent investment schemes targeting retirees.
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
Disasters can be a time of panic. If, during the confusion, someone attempts to get away with theft, they may face looting charges. California Penal Code § 463 treats looting as an aggravated form of the underlying theft or burglary offense, with mandatory enhanced penalties.
In West Covina, CA — a city prone to wildfires, earthquakes, and civil unrest events — looting charges have been prosecuted with particular vigor. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of West Covina while it's at its most vulnerable, and judges are never pleased by this. An example might be breaking into someone's home during a riot and grabbing valuables to run away with.
Potential Penalties (Enhanced):
- Petty Theft → Looting: Misdemeanor with mandatory jail (no OR release)
- Commercial Burglary → Looting: Felony — 16 months to 3 years
- Residential Burglary → Looting: Felony — 2 to 6 years
- Bail: Often denied or set very high during emergency periods
Attempted Theft, Attempted Burglary & Attempted Robbery
Trying to steal something and failing is still a crime in West Covina, CA. An attempt requires: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) a direct, unequivocal act toward committing it — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.
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.
Attempted burglary and attempted robbery are still strike offenses in California. We frequently challenge attempted charges by contesting the intent element or the nature of the "direct act" alleged.
No matter what you've been accused of, when you contact us, you can speak with an expert theft crimes lawyer in West Covina, CA, who will help you break down and navigate the charges. As a team, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.
What to Do if You're Accused of Theft
You need to take these accusations seriously. There could be a warrant out for your arrest, you could be facing major legal consequences, and you need to defend your reputation as well as your innocence. Without help, the odds can seem insurmountable.
But you have an ally. You have the Law Offices of David S. Chesley on your side. When you work with us, you will get a West Covina, CA, theft crimes lawyer who will listen to your story and advocate for your rights. Here are the steps we recommend taking:
1. Do Not Resist Arrest
Nobody wants to be arrested. However, don't resist. Respectfully complying with the police officers will make the process go smoother. Fighting back can only get you into more trouble.
2. Stay Calm and Stay Silent
It's common for police to interview you after an arrest – stay silent. Simply say "I decline to answer any questions and am invoking my right to an attorney." Your answers can later be used as evidence in the case, and if anything you say is untruthful, you can be accused of perjury.
3. Call a West Covina, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney Right Away
In California, after you are processed for arrest, you get three phone calls. Be sure to contact a theft crimes lawyer with one of your calls. Acting fast is important to protect your freedom. You can reach us at (800) 755-5174, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
4. Secure Bail for Release
Your lawyer can help argue for your release at a bail hearing. Our theft crimes defense attorneys will fight for your pre-trial release and lower bail requirements. We believe that protecting your freedom now is a part of protecting it for the long term.
5. Cooperate With Your Lawyer to Build Your Defense
This is perhaps the most important step: building a defense against the charges. An accomplished theft crimes lawyer in West Covina, CA, will take the time to listen to you, negotiate with the prosecution, and argue for charges to be dismissed wherever possible.
Powerful Defense Strategies for Theft Charges
Your case is unique — and your 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 West Covina, 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.
The claim of right defense applies when a defendant genuinely believed — even mistakenly — that they had a legal right to the property they took. If 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 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 (joyriding is a good example of this: it comes into play when a person took property away from its owner, but planned to return it).
Key principle: 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. This is a key part of nearly all theft defenses, particularly in cases involving property disputes, family conflicts, and many civil debt situations.
Using This Defense:
- 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
If police searched your car, home, or person without a valid warrant or legal justification, you may have been the victim of an illegal search and/or seizure. In theft and burglary cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If the investigators violated constitutional requirements, the evidence can be suppressed and the prosecution 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 appropriate legal authority; and searches that exceeded the limits of a valid warrant. In West Covina, CA, your defense attorney can file a motion to throw out any evidence the prosecution acquired through improper means — a motion that can be brought at the preliminary hearing stage and can effectively end a prosecution before trial if granted.
When evidence is suppressed under the exclusionary rule, prosecutors often cannot proceed with charges at all. Even partial suppression — if the court allows some evidence but not all of it — can make a big difference. Suppression motions are fully litigated in West Covina, CA, courts, and frequently come up in theft cases.
Suppression Scenarios:
- Warrantless Home Entry: Evidence obtained from inside a home is generally suppressible absent an exception
- Vehicle Searches: Require a warrant, 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 West Covina, CA. False accusations can arise from personal disputes, cases of mistaken identity, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Even if you're innocent, you're still at risk of going to prison for something you didn't do — you need a West Covina, 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, the high intensity of the circumstances can lead to witnesses not remembering details clearly — most notably across racial lines, in scenarios of poor visibility, or when the perpetrator was briefly seen. Even if the witness is sure, they could be mistaken. 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); attacking the character of the accuser; presenting expert testimony on the issues with eyewitness testimony; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.
If you have been falsely accused: Stay away from witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, and do not talk to the police without your theft lawyer present. You might make a mistake, or the police might misinterpret something you say. Contact defense counsel immediately and say nothing.
Lack of Knowledge — In some cases, the state must prove you knew the property was obtained through theft. If you're facing an applicable charge, we will raise doubt as to your knowledge that the goods were stolen and explain how you could come to possess them without realizing.
Consent / Permission — Consent regarding your use of the property is a strong defense in West Covina, CA, theft cases. 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.
Constitutional 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.
Diversion Programs — Particularly for offenders without a record, California offers sentencing alternatives that can keep you out of prison by participating. We identify every diversion opportunity available in your specific case.
Disputing the Property Valuation — If you're up against grand theft charges, but the supposedly stolen property didn't reach the $950 value threshold, we will fight to have the charges reduced. 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
A theft conviction does not have to define you for life. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, as long as you've finished probation, you can ask for a guilty or no contest plea to be removed — a process commonly called an expungement. To be eligible, the defendant generally must have: 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 — in a newly added requirement — 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).
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.
Expungement under § 1203.4 carries meaningful practical benefits: Of note, you won't have to note any convictions on private job applications. However, there are still some restrictions in the expungement process — it does not restore firearm rights, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) provides additional expungement assistance for individuals in West Covina, CA who don't break any other laws after finishing their sentence, if enough time has passed.
Important: 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, restoration of firearm rights, or clearing a prior strike, you will need a different method of expungement. When you work with an expert theft crimes lawyer, you'll be able to explore other options for protecting yourself.
Relief Options:
- PC § 1203.4: 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
Frequently Asked Questions About Theft Charges in West Covina, CA
Is there a difference between petty theft and grand theft in West Covina, California?
How much was allegedly stolen determines the specific theft charge. Petty theft misdemeanors are typical for anything $950 and below. Property valued above $950 — or involving specific categories like firearms or vehicles — is grand theft (a wobbler that can be a misdemeanor or felony). 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?
In many cases, 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. 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 West Covina, 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 make a major difference and help you with avoiding a conviction and keeping your record clean.
I didn't know the property was stolen. Can I still be convicted?
In many cases, being unaware of stolen property's origins can make for a strong defense. If you genuinely 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. That said, circumstances like an unusually low price 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 West Covina, CA?
Very serious. You're probably looking at felony charges, with higher prison time, fines, and long-lasting record impacts. If you have any prior convictions, you could be up against increased sentences. Call us as soon as possible if you're facing this charge.
What is a "wobbler" offense in California?
A wobbler is an offense that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances and the prosecutor's discretion. 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 us to review what options are available to you.
Can I be charged with burglary if I didn't steal anything?
Unfortunately, yes. In California, the actions you take after unlawfully entering a location don't determine a burglary charge. Instead, the state defines burglary as going into a building in order to steal something or break a felony law. Whether you actually took anything is irrelevant — if prosecutors can prove you entered with criminal intent, you can be convicted of burglary even if you left empty-handed. Because of this, intent evidence — and arguments surrounding it — is central to burglary defense.
Need a Theft Lawyer in West Covina, CA? Contact Our Team Now.
You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the West Covina, CA, legal system. Our firm is ready to defend you — whenver you need help. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.
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