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Theft Lawyer Woodland Hills, CA. Nobody wants to be in a situation where they're facing criminal charges. If you're facing theft allegations, the system can move against you extremely fast. It can seem like there's no way out.

Even when it feels like there is no hope, you have a path forward: The Law Offices of David S. Chesley. Our lawyers have the tools and training to fight against any theft and related charges. With a Woodland Hills, CA, theft crimes lawyer from our team defending your freedom, you don't have to worry about how you'll handle things alone anymore.

Talk to an attorney right away at (800) 755-5174 or send us a message about your case for a free, confidential consultation. Waiting too long to reach out can cost you everything.

How a Woodland Hills, CA, Theft Lawyer Can Help You

Theft charges need to be treated seriously, whether they are felonies or misdemeanors. Without a lawyer, you're stuck trying to figure out a intricate legal system and potentially set yourself up for the below consequences:

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

If you want to avoid all of this, you need a distinguished Woodland Hills, CA, theft crimes lawyer. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley . Here's some of what sets us apart:

Why You Should Hire Our Woodland Hills, CA Theft Defense Lawyers

Working with our expert Woodland Hills, CA theft crimes defense lawyers will give you leading legal representation. Here's what you get when you call us — and the difference it will make for your 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 — 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.
• Expungement Services — Even after the fact, we're still here to help. You deserve to move forward with your life, and we can help you do it.
• Terrific Reputation – well-respected amongst both clients and peers.
• Available 24/7 — Arrests happen at all hours. So do we. You can reach a theft crimes attorney any time of day or night — because waiting until Monday morning can cost you critical opportunities.
• Totally Private — You can trust us with everything about your case. We won't judge — we're just here to build the strongest case possible.

Theft Charges We Will Fight in Woodland Hills, CA

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

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

Theft Cases We Fight in Woodland Hills, CA

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, we're experienced in defending against charges of theft. When you need a theft crimes lawyer in Woodland Hills, 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

While there are many different theft case types in Woodland Hills, CA, odds are high you're facing one of these two: Petty theft and grand theft. Both consist of taking another person's property when you weren't allowed to. The distinguishing factor is how much value was allegedly stolen: If it was $950 or less, the classification will typically be petty theft, while any more will ordinarily be grand theft.

Fighting petty theft allegations often lead to more positive outcomes, in part because they are often misdemeanors. However, fighting grand theft charges pose a greater obstacle, because they are frequently charged as felonies. In either case, it's always important to have a theft crimes lawyer in your corner to minimize the consequences.

Here's a breakdown of what distinguishes petty and grand theft:

Shoplifting — Proposition 47 / Penal Code § 459.5

Shoplifting used to be a type of commercial burglary, rather than its own offense. This changed after California passed Proposition 47 in 2014. A person commits shoplifting when they go into an open store in order to steal $950 or less worth of goods.

Before Prop 47, what we now call "shoplifting" was prosecuted as burglary — a felony. Today, most shoplifting charges are misdemeanors. Keep in mind, though, that you could still face felony charges in some circumstances, such as if you have certain previous convictions on your record. Regardless of what level of charge you're facing, a local Woodland Hills, 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 increasingly prosecuted aggressively by Woodland Hills, 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

Potential defenses consist of: Lack of intent to steal, wrong identity, entrapment by loss prevention, unlawful search and seizure, and diversion programs for first-time offenders.

Petty Theft with a Prior — California Penal Code § 666

Don't underestimate a petty theft charge — it can become a felony under Penal Code § 666 if charged as a petty theft with a prior. This is one of the most common mechanisms used in Woodland Hills, 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 at least one prior conviction for theft, robbery, carjacking, burglary, or a similar qualifying offense — especially if the sentence included incarceration. This law is applicable in many cases today, even after being limited in scope by Proposition 47 in 2014. Even if you have a non-theft prior conviction, you can still see your petty theft charge upgraded to a wobbler — several violent crime and sex crime convictions are also eligible.

Potential Penalties:

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

Vehicle Theft Charges We Fight in Woodland Hills, CA

Whatever Woodland Hills, CA, vehicle theft charge you're facing, we can help you fight it. The first one that probably comes to mind is grand theft auto, but that's actually not its own charge. Grand theft auto is defined in a subsection 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. On the other hand, if they were only doing to drive it briefly and then bring it back, they're probably going 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 Woodland Hills, CA, since the prosecution is more likely to assign that as a misdemeanor.

If you're caught in possession of a stolen vehicle, you can face criminal charges for that, too. Just like receiving stolen property, you can be convicted even if you didn't take an active part in the theft. Simply owning or having the car or truck is enough for a conviction.

At the Law Offices of David S. Chesley, you'll get a vehicle theft crimes lawyer who has the experience necessary to combat these charges and dissect the state's case. Call now to start building your defense.

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

If you allegedly stole a car, you might expect to face grand theft auto charges. However, grand theft auto does not have its own statute in California — it is a subcategory of grand theft that applies specifically to the theft of any motor vehicle, regardless of its value. The law doesn't even specify if the vehicle needs to be working — stealing a nearly worthless broken down car would still qualify as grand theft.

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

Possible Penalties:

• Charge Type: Wobbler (usually felony in Woodland Hills, CA)
• Felony Prison Sentence: 16 months, 2 years, or 3 years
• Misdemeanor Jail Sentence: Up to 1 year
• Fines: Up to $10,000

Vehicle Theft — California Vehicle Code § 10851

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

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

Joyriding — California Vehicle Code § 10851

Joyriding refers specifically to taking or driving a vehicle without the owner's consent, but with the intention of returning it. 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 Woodland Hills, CA, making it critical to get an expert vehicle theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

In most circumstances, Woodland Hills, CA, joyriding cases are handled as misdemeanors. However, prior criminal history or aggravating circumstances can push it to a felony.

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. The key element of carjacking is how the vehicle was allegedly stolen — if force or fear was used, the Woodland Hills, CA prosecutor is likely going to pick carjacking over another offense. Because this action involves violence, carjacking is always a felony and is not eligible for probation in many circumstances.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Many people are shocked to learn they can be convicted of a theft-related crime without actually having stolen anything. If you have 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.

This charge frequently catches people who buy vehicles through informal channels, accept a vehicle as a gift, or borrow a car without fully investigating its ownership history. The state must prove you had knowledge the vehicle was stolen — and that's often where your vehicle theft crimes lawyer can challenge the case.

Potential Penalties:

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

White Collar Crime Charges We Defend in Woodland Hills, CA

White collar crimes in Woodland Hills, CA, can be any one of a variety of charges, but each of them share one thing in common: abuse of an organization for personal gain.

Several white collar crimes are defined by how money is transferred. Embezzlement is the theft of money someone was supposed to manage for others, like an investment banker taking from a client's account. Money laundering 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 involve financial exchanges, though (at least at face value). Forgery occurs when one person makes a fake document to later use for fraud, and identity theft involves stealing another person'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.

Embezzlement, Identity Theft, Bribery & More

White collar crimes carry severe consequences even without physical violence — prison sentences, massive fines, major career setbacks, 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

There isn't a set list of "white collar crimes," but they do tend to have some qualities in common, particularly that they are non-violent and are related to one's workplace. What unites these offenses is the element of deception, breach of trust, or abuse of a professional for personal gain. These cases are some of the most complicated in Woodland Hills, CA, and normally require highly experienced representation to defend.

These charges can seemingly come out of nowhere, as state investigators will take months to years to build a case before filing charges. If the police have reached out to you for questioning, don't talk to them alone. An attorney is essential as soon as you find out you're under investigation. The sooner you bring in your legal defense, the better chance you have of a positive outcome.

Embezzlement — California Penal Code § 503

Embezzlement occurs when someone who has been entrusted with property fraudulently converts that property for their own use. The main feature is the pre-existing lawful access — alleged embezzlement offenders had honest ways to access the supposedly stolen or misused goods.

Hypothetical examples: A company credit card holder using it for personal purchases; a payroll professional creating fake employees and taking their salaries; an employee overcharging customers and keeping the difference; an employee skimming from cash registers; a charity collector taking cash donations while leaving other types alone.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950: Misdemeanor — up to 6 months jail
• Over $950: Felony — up to 3 years prison
• Large Amounts: Enhanced sentences up to 10+ years
• Additional: Full restitution, 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 is made up of three steps: placement (bringing the illegally-obtained money into the economy), layering (in an attempt to confuse future investigators, the money is shifted through complicated financial trades and transfers), and integration (using the funds for legitimate purchases, to further disguise them).

California's money laundering statute specifically targets financial actions higher than $5,000 when the alleged offender was aware that the money was dirty. You could also face federal money laundering charges under 18 U.S.C. § 1956, 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

Bribery involves offering, giving, receiving, or soliciting something of value in exchange for influencing the actions of people in certain positions of power. California law 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 Woodland Hills, 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 Woodland Hills, CA. Attempted bribery charges are even possible, if one person tries to bribe another, and the second person refuses it.

Potential Penalties:

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

Forgery — California Penal Code § 470

Forgery involves creating, altering, or using a false document with intent to defraud. California Penal Code § 470 is broad and covers checks, receipts, contracts, deeds, power of attorney documents, court orders, notary public symbols, identification documents, and many other types of written instruments.

Critical point: Whether or not you allegedly did something with the forgery is irrelevant. The intent to defraud, in addition to the creation or use of the fake item, is enough 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

In Woodland Hills, CA, identity theft is the unauthorized use of another person's personal identifying information — name, Social Security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or other data — for any unlawful purpose, including obtaining credit, property, services, or medical information.

Important factor: No financial loss to the victim has to occur for a conviction. Simply taking and using another individual's information without permission is enough to warrant a crime under California statute § 530.5. Because of this, you need to work with an expert theft crimes lawyer whatever the specifics of your case.

Identity theft accusations are aggressively prosecuted in Woodland Hills, CA, and often involve federal charges for more serious, widespread, or online cases.

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 Woodland Hills, CA

Fraud is one of the most common white collar crimes in Woodland Hills, CA, and it has several subcategories. Broadly speaking, a person who commits theft by lying about something so that another person gives away their money voluntarily can be convicted of fraud. Theft by false pretenses is a basic type of this crime.

Insurance fraud is one of the most common types of fraud. It involves lying on an insurance claim to increase their benefit. For 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 similar fraud charge is welfare fraud, where someone takes advantage of government assistance programs by providing false information to them. 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 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.

Different Kinds of Fraud, False Pretenses & Financial Deception

You could face accusations of fraud in Woodland Hills, CA, for a wide variety of actions — in most cases, it's a small, individual action, but there have been massive systems of fraud as well. Because the evidence can be very complex and there can be a large amount of it, you need an expert theft crimes lawyer who can effectively navigate all of the intricacies.

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

Many "fraud" charges in Woodland Hills fall under California's 'theft by false pretenses' law. This is when one person intentionally deceives another through false statements or misrepresentations, who then freely gives up something of value based on the false information. As opposed to forceful or unknowing theft, theft by false prestenses involves the alleged victim deliberately parting with their goods because of the deception.

Common examples: Selling a product that doesn't exist; misrepresenting credentials to get paid for work; pitching investments based on false information; collecting donations for a nonexistent charity.

If you're facing theft by false pretenses charges, it could be either a misdemeanor or a felony. The level 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

Lying to an insurance company to receive a payout or other benefit is insurance fraud. If you're facing insurance fraud charges in Woodland Hills, 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

Common forms include: Staging or exaggerating auto accidents; filing false theft reports; inflating repair cost claims; arson for insurance proceeds; fabricating injuries; double billing for a health service.

Possible Penalties:

• Felony Prison Sentence: 2, 3, or 5 years
• Fines: Up to $150,000 or double the fraud amount
• Restitution: Give the amount defrauded back to the alleged victim
• Additional: License revocation for professionals

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

In Woodland Hills, CA, credit card fraud covers a wide range of conduct involving fraudulent use of credit or debit cards. You could be accused of using another person's card without authorization, using a fake card or one acquired by theft, using an account number without physical possession of the card, or fraudulently obtaining or selling card account information.

Note on 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 online. Federal penalties are significantly more severe, and our team of theft crime lawyers has experience handling both state and federal fraud cases.

Possible Penalties (State):

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

Welfare Fraud — California Welfare & Institutions Code § 10980

A person commits welfare fraud if they lie about or misrepresent themselves in order to get access to benefits from the government, such as food stamps or medical benefits.

Common examples: Claiming income is less than it actually is; misrepresenting household composition; using another person's EBT card; pretending that a child is still a dependent when they are not; continuing to collect benefits after a qualifying event ends your eligibility.

These crimes often have special investigation teams that target alleged offenders. If convicted, you could be looking at years in prison and serious financial consequences. A local Woodland Hills, CA, theft crimes lawyer can dissect the prosecution's case and boost your chances of a positive outcome.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $950 (usually): 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 occurs when a hospice provider bills Medicare, Medi-Cal, or private insurers for services that were not rendered, were medically unnecessary, or were provided to patients who did not actually qualify for hospice care. To be eligible 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.

While it's possible for care recipients to face hospice fraud accusations, they are more commonly made against the care provider. Hospice can be a challenging situation for many people, and frustrations with the situation can turn into unjust accusations. These accusations are particularly dangerous because they are often charged in federal court in Woodland Hills, CA, meaning you're up against very difficult odds.

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. 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.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

Medicare fraud encompasses a broad range of conduct involving the submission of false or fraudulent claims to the Medicare program. 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 Woodland Hills, CA.

Common schemes include: billing for services never rendered; upcoding (billing for a more expensive service than was actually provided); unbundling (billing separately for procedures that should be billed together at a lower combined rate); billing for medically unnecessary services; kickback arrangements for patient referrals; and identity theft of patient or physician billing credentials. The federal prosecutor is supported by an equally strong federal team of investigators, who can conduct their job very quietly. If you find out that you're under investigation for Medicare fraud, it's urgent that you contact your Woodland Hills, CA theft lawyer immediately.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Health care fraud under federal law is defined as knowingly and willfully executing — or attempting to execute — a scheme to defraud any health care benefit program, or to obtain money or property from a health care benefit program by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. As opposed to Medicare fraud, these charges can be made whether you allegedly defrauded the government's healthcare programs or a private insurance company.

You can face federal charges in some cases, but it's more common for these to be state charges. California's statute specifically addresses situations where a person lies or embellishes insurance claims, such as filing multiple claims in situations where only one would apply. Health care fraud cases in Woodland Hills, CA, are frequently complex, involving large volumes of billing records, expert testimony from medical billing specialists, and coordination between state and federal agencies. Doctors, billing organizations, office managers, and clerks have all been accused of this violation at various points in time.

Possible Penalties:

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

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

Home health fraud, 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 medical social services. To qualify for Medicare reimbursement, the person receiving care must be homebound and require special care. Because of the particulars of the definition, these cases can vary wildly from one another.

Common schemes include: billing for visits to patients who are not homebound and do not qualify; billing for services that were never provided; falsifying physician orders and certifications to manufacture eligibility; paying illegal kickbacks to recruiters, physicians, or patient cappers for referrals; and billing therapy services at inflated frequency levels unsupported by clinical documentation. Home health fraud charges in Woodland Hills, CA, are taken very seriously, and you need a theft defense lawyer who's ready to give your case the attention it deserves. Owners, administrators, therapists, and referring physicians have all been prosecuted.

Warning: 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 Fight in Woodland Hills, CA

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you could be facing both theft charges and violent crime charges in Woodland Hills, CA. This can occur if you're charged with robbery. Robbery occurs when one person threatens or attacks someone in order to take something from them. 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.

However, some thefts which did not start out violent can end up involving violence. 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. The alleged offender doesn't necessarily need to threaten physical violence, but the threat should be to harm the alleged victim in some form or fashion. As an example, if one person had a compromising photo of another and threatened to release it if not given money, that would be extortion.

Robbery, Extortion & Force-Related Theft

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

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. 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:
  1. In someone's house, vehicle, or other building,
  2. In a taxi, or
  3. 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 damage someone's storefront unless they pay "protection money;" 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 Woodland Hills, 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 commit another crime. Ordinarily, this is a building, like a retail store (which would make it commercial burglary), but not always. For example, if you allegedly smashed a car window to take something from the glovebox, that would fall under burglary of a vehicle.

Regardless of the specifics of your burglary charges, there is always an element of trespassing involved. Because of 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. In fact, before 2014, what you think of as shoplifting would be classified as burglary under California law. However, as we discussed above a new law Proposition 47 (officially the Safe Neighborhoods and Schools Act), a ballot initiative passed by California voters on November 4, 2014 that distinguishes shoplifting as specifically attempting to steal merchandise from a business during regular business hours. The differences in charges had a major impact for several offenses and penalties. Because it made shoplifting a separate charge from burglary, shoplifting attempts are no longer felonies in Woodland Hills, CA (except in extreme cases).

Another related charge is vandalism. California defines vandalism and the intentional harming of someone else's property with permission, such as by breaking a window to burglarize someone's home. It's common to face burglary and vandalism charges together in Woodland Hills, CA, making it all the more important to get an experienced theft crimes lawyer to defend you.

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

Burglary, Home Invasion & Related Charges

People commonly think of burglary as entering someone's house to commit theft, but that's not how Woodland Hills, CA law works — these charges apply when someone tresspasses on a property while planning to break the law, though it doesn't have to be a theft law specifically.

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

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

This charge is always a felony and will add a strike to your record upon a conviction. Outside of violent crimes, first-degree burglary is one of the worst theft charges you can face in California, and Woodland Hills, 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

Second-degree burglary is someones called "commercial burglary" because it also involves entering a location with the intent to steal or commit a felony, but as opposed to first-degree burglary, the location is non-residential. This charge is considered a wobbler and could be either a misdemeanor or a felony.

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Burglary of a Vehicle — California Penal Code § 459

Breaking into a car, truck, or other vehicle to steal something inside — or to commit any felony — constitutes vehicle burglary under California law. A typical example of this would be an alleged offender breaking into a car to steal a backpack or wallet within. 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: Taking something out of an open vehicle, although it would still be stealing, would not qualify for a burglary charge. An unlocked vehicle can still lead to theft charges, but for it to be burglary, the vehicle must have been protected.

Home Invasion Burglary With Violence — California Penal Code § 459 / § 211

A home invasion occurs when someone commits burglary of a residential structure while the occupants are present, often involving threats or violence. Woodland Hills, CA, prosecutors take these charges extremely seriously and often push for harsh punishments. It's even more important to hire an expert theft crimes lawyer than usual in these cases.

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 defense attorneys that can give you top-quality service, and you need them immediately.

Possible Penalties:

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

Property & Related Offenses

Receiving Stolen Property, Vandalism & Trespassing

While no criminal theft charges are truly 'simple,' they are made far more complex when they are compounded with related or adjacent charges. You need a Woodland Hills, CA theft crimes lawyer who is prepared to fight every charge and stand by your side throughout the process.

Receiving Stolen Property — California Penal Code § 496

While theft-related, receiving stolen property cases are their own challenge. 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. This knowledge element is often where we can mount an effective defense. Buying items that are cheaply listed, 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

Instead of violently harming another person or animal, vandalism is focused on property harm. It occurs when one person marks or damages another person's property, without permission and for bad purposes. This is related to theft because in many cases, the accused will be alleged to have broken into a location as a part of the theft.

Vandalism can either be a misdemeanor or a felony in California: For damage under $400, it's a misdemeanor, while for anything over, it's a felony.

Possible Penalties:

• Under $400: Misdemeanor — up to 1 year jail
• Over $400: Wobbler — up to 3 years prison
• Restitution: Full repair/replacement cost to victim
• Other Common Penalties: Graffiti cleanup, community service

Trespassing — California Penal Code § 602

You can be convicted of trespassing if you allegedly entered a location without permission, or if you stayed there after being told to leave. In many cases, because thefts often involve entering a location where one is not supposed to be, trespassing is charged alongside other offenses.

Without compounding charges, trespassing is typically charged as a misdemeanor or infraction. However, Woodland Hills, CA, prosecutors can also use it as a part of a case for more serious charges. Defenses often hinge on whether permission was given or reasonably believed to exist.

Perjury — California Penal Code § 118

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

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

Possible Penalties:

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

Specialized & Enhanced Charges

Elder Theft, Firearm Theft, Looting & Attempted Crimes

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. Because of this the theft of even a low-value firearm results in a felony charge. Grand theft of a firearm is considered a serious felony and can count as a strike under California's Three Strikes law.

To make things worse, you may also have to fight in federal court. The potential dual nature of these charges multiplies the complexity. And it's even more important to work with an attorney with the skills to fight for you at all levels.

Potential Penalties:

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

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

California law provides special enhanced protections for victims aged 65 or older (and dependent adults). Financial elder abuse (also known as theft from an elder) occurs when someone takes, conceals, appropriates, obtains, or retains money or property from an elder by undue influence, fraud, or other wrongful conduct.

The prosecution in Woodland Hills, CA, does not take these charges lightly and usually pursues harsh penalties. This is further exacerbated if the alleged victim is 70 or older, which can lead to increased penalties. People convicted of financial elder abuse often also have to repay the alleged victim, and Adult Protective Services involvement only makes things more complex.

Common scenarios: Caregiver taking money from a client's account; family member doesn't provide an agreed upon level of care; contractor overcharging vulnerable seniors; 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

During emergencies, stealing property can be charged as looting. California Penal Code § 463 treats looting as an aggravated form of the underlying theft or burglary offense, with mandatory enhanced penalties.

These charges are often looked upon very negatively in Woodland Hills, CA. The state will often pursue looting charges beyond what it would have for ordinary burglary or theft offenses. Looting is considered a way of taking advantage of Woodland Hills 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 Woodland Hills, CA. For it to be considered an attempt, the prosecution needs to prove two things: (1) a mental state of deliberate criminal activity, and (2) some form of action that furthers the criminal ends — even if the attempt failed or was interrupted.

Most of the time, the punishment for an attempt is half of what it would have been, if it were completed. So while residential burglary carries a prison sentence of 2, 4, or 6 years, attempted residential burglary would only carry a sentence of 1, 2, or 3 years. However, this is still a serious criminal conviction with lasting consequences.

California's Three Strikes law doesn't provide any leeway if someone attempted to commit a crime unsuccessfully — robbery attempts and burglary attempts are still strikes, whether or not they were successful. 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 reach out to our firm, you can speak with an expert theft crimes lawyer in Woodland Hills, CA, who will listen to your side of the story and build a defense around that. As a team, we will craft a staunch defense against the allegations.

Steps to Take When Accused of Theft

Theft allegations are just the tip of the iceberg. You're up against the Woodland Hills, CA, prosecutor's office, not everyone will believe your side of the story, and a conviction could derail your life. Trying to handle it yourself, the odds can seem insurmountable.

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

1. Comply With the Police

While it's reasonable to feel angry about being arrested, don't resist. If you act civilly, it will make things go faster and easier. Fighting back can only get you into more trouble.

2. Keep Calm and Stay Silent

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

3. Reach Out to a Woodland Hills, CA, Theft Crimes Defense Attorney ASAP

In California, after you are processed for arrest, you get three phone calls. One of these should be to your theft crimes lawyer. Getting legal assistance quickly can protect you from making mistakes that will come back to hurt you later. We are available 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 firm's theft crimes defense attorneys will argue against the prosecution for your release. Your rights and freedom matter, no matter what you've been accused of.

5. Work With Your Lawyer to Make a Personalized Defense

Finally, you work with your attorney to craft a strong defense. A skillful theft crimes lawyer in Woodland Hills, CA, will hear your side of the story, negotiate with the prosecution, and argue for a dismissal wherever possible.

How Our Theft Lawyers Fight Against These Charges

As expert theft crime attorneys, we know that each case's defense strategy needs to be customized to the specific details, circumstances, and charges. Here are the major defense approaches our attorneys use to fight theft charges in Woodland Hills, CA.

Lack of Intent / Claim of Right Defense in Theft Cases

If you've been accused of stealing, you should discuss intent as a possible defense with your theft lawyer. All theft offenses under California law require that the defendant acted with specific intent to steal — that is, to permanently deprive another person of their property. In many cases, especially if the physical evidence indicates the defendant took the item, everything will center around intent.

The claim of right defense applies when a defendant genuinely believed — even mistakenly — that they had a legal right to the property they took. If 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. Additional intent-based defenses include: mistake of fact (the defendant took something that they thought was theirs); voluntary intoxication (which may negate specific intent in limited circumstances); and absence of permanence (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. Challenging the intent element is not simply a fallback strategy. May defenses against stealing allegations will incorporate intent to some degree, particularly in cases involving property disputes, family conflicts, and many civil debt situations.

Defense Application:

• Grand Theft: Negates specific intent to permanently deprive
• 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 many criminal cases, how the evidence was obtained is just as important as what it is. If the authorities broke the law, the evidence can be thrown out and the district attorney may need to drop charges.

Here are some of the reasons that evidence is thrown out in theft cases: warrantless searches of vehicles, homes, or persons without valid legal justification; 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 getting proper approval; and searches that exceeded the limits of a legally obtained 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 — eliminating a single piece of highly damaging evidence — can be the difference between a conviction and acquittal. Suppression motions are fully litigated in Woodland Hills, CA, courts, and are an essential tool for the defense when facing theft charges.

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

Innocent people are charged with theft crimes more often than the public realizes. False accusations can result from personal disputes, witnesses mistaking the defendant for someone else, misunderstandings about ownership, errors in surveillance footage interpretation, or false accusations coming from a person who wants to cause you harm. Being wrongly accused does not mean the charges will not proceed — you need a Woodland Hills, CA, theft crimes lawyer to protect your freedom.

False accusations in Woodland Hills, CA, often aren't the result of malice, but of a witness making an error. In theft, robbery, and burglary cases, witnesses under stress frequently misidentify suspects — particularly across racial lines, under poor lighting conditions, or when things moved too fast. No matter how confident the eyewitness is, there is always room for error. While this can unfortunately lead to false accusations, the benefit is that it provides several defensive avenues in Woodland Hills, 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); exposing bias or motive on the part the person making the allegations; presenting expert testimony on the science of human memory and eyewitness reliability; and demonstrating inconsistencies between different witnesses' versions of events.

If you are falsely accused: Stay away from witnesses, do not try to collect evidence yourself, and do not tell your side of the story to the police without your theft lawyer present. Statements made to investigators — even truthful ones — can be mischaracterized, taken out of context, or used in unexpected ways. 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 — For receiving stolen property and possession of a stolen vehicle, the Woodland Hills, CA, prosecutor must prove you were aware that the property was stolen. We will challenge whether or not you had this knowledge — it's common for people to make purchases without being aware of how the seller got the item.

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

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.

Sentencing Alternatives — Particularly for offenders with no prior offenses, California offers sentencing alternatives that can protect you from a conviction. If you are eligible, we will explore it as an option to protect your freedom.

Arguing the Value of Property — In many cases, your charges are determined by how much was allegedly taken. Lower amounts lead to lesser charges. 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

Whatever your past is, you have a future. And we want to help you make the most of it. Under California Penal Code § 1203.4, 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 completed all terms of probation, such as paying fines and restitution; not have any pending criminal charges against you; and — in a newly added requirement — in several cases, must not have been incarcerated in state prison (though there are some alternate options/exceptions — ask your theft lawyer if any apply in your case).

In cases where probation was not granted, a petition under Penal Code § 1203.4a may provide relief after one year has elapsed since conviction. 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: In particular, an expunged conviction generally does not need to be disclosed on private employment applications under state law. That said, the criminal record isn't entirely thrown away by expungement — it doesn't allow gun ownership, does not prevent the conviction from being used in subsequent criminal proceedings, and doesn't restore health care or other professional licenses. Senate Bill 731 (effective July 1, 2023) even automates part of the expungement process in some cases, if there haven't been any subsequent criminal cases.

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, to be able to legally own a gun again, 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: Charges dismissed after successful probation completion
• PC § 1203.4a: Relief for misdemeanors without probation (available 1 year after the conviction)
• PC § 851.91: Seal records of arrests which did not end in a conviction
• SB 731 (2023): Automatic relief for qualifying non-violent felony convictions
• Limitations: Does not restore firearm rights or remove record from law enforcement databases

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Woodland Hills, CA, Theft Crimes Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between petty theft and grand theft in Woodland Hills, California?


How much was allegedly stolen determines the specific theft charge. Anything $950 and under should be a petty theft charge, which is often a misdemeanor. Property valued above $950 — or involving specific categories like firearms or vehicles — is grand theft (a wobbler that can be a misdemeanor or felony). 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.

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


Frequently, yes. California law lets you expunge several types of theft convictions (including felonies) from your record after completing probation. Expungement removes the conviction from your public record and allows you to truthfully say you have not been convicted of that crime in most circumstances. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to help you expunge your record, whatever the circumstances of your conviction.

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


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

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


Receiving stolen property (PC § 496) requires that you knew — or had good reason to know — the property was stolen. If you genuinely weren't aware and didn't have a reason to suspect it, that can form the basis of your defense. Our attorneys challenge the "knowledge" element aggressively in these cases. However, circumstances like an unusually low price or lack of receipts can erode your case, making it imperative that you hire a skillful theft crimes lawyer.

How serious is a grand theft auto charge in Woodland Hills, CA?


Very serious. In Woodland Hills, CA, grand theft auto is almost always prosecuted as a felony, which means potential prison time (up to three years), fines up to $10,000, and a felony record that can affect employment, housing, and immigration status. If you have a criminal record, you could be up against increased sentences. Get in touch with one of our theft crimes lawyers 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. A large portion of theft-related offenses — such as grand theft, commercial burglary, receiving stolen property, and forgery — are wobblers. As your theft crimes lawyer, we will argue for misdemeanor charges if you are facing a wobbler, to protect your record and freedom.

Will I go to jail for a theft charge?


You can avoid jail in many cases, actually. Many theft cases — especially misdemeanors and first offenses — can be resolved without jail time through diversion programs, probation, community service, or fines. While felony charges can be harder to avoid prison for, it is still possible in some cases. The specifics of your circumstances will play into this, and your attorney will fight for reduced (if not eliminated) jail time. Call us to understand what options are available to you.

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


Yes. In California, you can be convicted of burglary for trespassing for the purposes of committing theft or a felony. Whether you stole something or not doesn't matter — if prosecutors can prove you entered with criminal intent, you can be convicted of burglary even if you left empty-handed. Because of this, intent evidence — and challenging how it's proven — is central to burglary defense.

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Up Against Theft Charges in Woodland Hills, CA? Call to Protect Your Rights.

You need a theft crimes lawyer to protect you. It's not about innocence or guilt — it's about getting help navigating the Woodland Hills, CA, legal system. The Law Offices of David S. Chesley is prepared to defend you — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Your first consultation is completely free and confidential.

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We also offer the below legal services in Woodland Hills, CA:

• Violent Crimes Lawyer
• DUI Lawyer
• Criminal Defense Lawyer