Theft & Burglary Defense in San Diego
Theft and burglary are separate criminal offenses under California law. Although the charges may arise from similar circumstances, each offense has different legal elements, and the potential consequences depend upon the specific allegations and facts of the case.
If you have been arrested or charged with theft, burglary, or a related property offense, California Law Centers, APC. can review the evidence, explain the charges, and help you understand the legal options available to you.
Understanding Theft Charges
California theft offenses generally involve allegations that someone unlawfully took or obtained property belonging to another person with the required intent.
Theft-related charges may include:
- Petty theft
- Grand theft
- Shoplifting
- Theft by false pretenses
- Embezzlement
- Receiving stolen property
- Other theft-related offenses
Whether a theft offense is charged as an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony can depend upon the type and value of the property, the circumstances of the alleged offense, the defendant's history, and other factors provided by California law.
Understanding Burglary Charges
Burglary is different from theft. A burglary charge generally involves allegations that a person entered a qualifying structure or other specified location with the intent to commit theft or another felony.
An important distinction is that a person may potentially face a burglary charge even when the intended theft or felony was never completed. The prosecution must still prove the required elements of the charged offense.
California distinguishes between different degrees and forms of burglary, and the potential consequences can vary significantly depending upon the location involved and the circumstances of the alleged offense.
Defending Theft and Burglary Charges
An arrest does not establish guilt. Depending upon the circumstances, important issues in a theft or burglary case may include:
- Whether the prosecution can establish the required criminal intent
- Ownership or right to possession of the property
- Mistaken identity
- Witness credibility
- Surveillance video or other recordings
- Statements made to law enforcement
- Search and seizure issues
- The value and nature of the property involved
- Whether the evidence establishes each required element of the charged offense
California Law Centers carefully reviews the police reports, available video, witness statements, physical evidence, and other circumstances to identify potential defenses and weaknesses in the prosecution's case.
How California Law Centers Can Help
With over 30 years of legal experience, Attorney James Hairgrove and the legal team at California Law Centers provide experienced representation to individuals facing criminal charges.
We take the time to evaluate the evidence, explain the criminal process, discuss available options, and pursue the best available resolution based upon the individual facts and circumstances of the case.
Contact California Law Centers
If you have been arrested, are under investigation, or are facing theft or burglary charges, contact California Law Centers, APC. for a free case evaluation.
888-DMV-2DUI (888-368-2384)
619-667-3743
[email protected]
San Diego • Riverside • San Bernardino
The information provided on this page is general information and is not legal advice. Every criminal case is different, and no particular result is guaranteed.
