California Property Crimes
Defense Attorney
If you’ve been charged with a property crime in California, you’re facing serious legal consequences that can affect your freedom, career and future.
Our experienced California criminal defense attorneys are here to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
In the vast majority of cases, we can achieve outstanding results without having to put our client through the stress and expense of a jury trial.
At California Criminal Defense Center, we have successfully defended clients throughout California against all types of property crime charges — from minor theft offenses to complex burglary and arson cases. We have also handled countless cases involving trespass and vandalism.
Understanding Property Crimes in California
What Is a Property Crime? In California, “property crimes” involve taking, damaging, or unlawfully entering someone else’s property. These offenses range from misdemeanors to potentially serious felonies, depending on the circumstances, the value of the property, and intent of the accused.
Common Types of Property Crimes We Defend
Our law firm represents clients facing all property-related offenses, including:
Taking someone else’s property without permission.
Entering a building or vehicle with intent to commit theft or another felony.
Taking property directly from another person using force or intimidation.
Damaging or destroying another’s property, including graffiti or property damage.
Entering another’s property without consent.
Stealing merchandise from a retail store.
Knowingly possessing or buying property obtained through theft.
Misappropriating money or property entrusted to you, often in a workplace setting.
Penalties and Legal Consequences
California imposes strict penalties for property crimes. Depending on the offense and prior record, you could face:
- Jail or prison time
- Significant fines and restitution
- Probation or community service
- Permanent criminal record
- Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Property Crimes
Some property crimes, like petty theft, may be charged as misdemeanors.
Others — such as burglary, robbery, or arson — are typically felonies with much harsher sentences.
The difference often depends on factors like the specific charge, the property value, use of force, and criminal history.
How Our California Defense Lawyers Can Help
Being accused of a property crime doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Our defense team uses a strategic, evidence-based approach to challenge the case against you. Even if you feel the evidence against you is strong, we are typically able to negotiate very favorable outcomes for our clients.
We Can Help By:
- Thoroughly investigating your case and reviewing police reports for errors or rights violations
- Negotiating with prosecutors to seek case dismissal, reduction, or alternative sentencing
- Using recent criminal justice reform measures to get you favorable results
- Protecting your rights at every stage — from investigation through trial
- Presenting strong defense arguments to create reasonable doubt
Our attorneys understand how California judges and prosecutors handle property crime cases and we use that insight to build the strongest possible defense.
What Our Clients Say
“Working with Ardalon Fakhimi and his team was nothing short of life-changing. I was overwhelmed and didn’t know where to turn, but his calm confidence and mastery of the law gave me hope. The case resolved far better than I ever imagined.”
“Professional, approachable, and incredibly effective. Ardalon explained every step clearly, answered all my questions with patience, and always made me feel like a priority. I couldn’t recommend him highly enough.”
“I’ve dealt with other attorneys in the past, but Ardalon Fakhimi’s firm is in a league of its own. Respectful, responsive, and results-driven. They truly care about their clients’ lives and futures.”
“Ardalon Fakhimi is the person you want by your side when the stakes are high. His reputation in the courtroom is unmatched, and it shows in the way judges and opposing counsel respect him.”
Why Clients Choose Our
Los Angeles Violent Crimes
Defense Firm
Not all defense attorneys are the same. Here’s why drivers throughout Los Angeles County trust our firm:
Experience
Over 25 years defending Property Crimes cases across California.
Track record
Hundreds of cases resolved successfully.
Personalized defense
Every case is unique, and we treat it that way.
24/7 availability
We know Property Crimes arrests don’t happen on a schedule.
We don’t just defend cases — we defend futures. Our mission is to minimize the damage and help you move forward with confidence.
Why Choose California Criminal Defense Center
- Extensive Experience : Decades of experience defending clients across California.
- Proven Results : Countless case dismissals, acquittals, charge and sentence reductions, and favorable plea deals.
- Local Expertise : We understand the procedures and tendencies of California courts and local prosecutors.
- Personalized Attention : Every case is unique — we give you the focus and dedication your case deserves.
We treat every client with respect, discretion, and compassion — because we know what’s at stake.
What To Do If You’ve Been Accused of a Property Crime
- Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney.
- Do not speak with loss prevention officers
- Do not sign any documents for loss prevention officers, store security, or law enforcement officers, even if they promise not to prosecutor if you sign (which is usually untrue)
- Avoid discussing your case with friends or on social media.
- Contact a defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights and start building your defense.
The sooner you act, the more options we have to fight your charges and protect your future.
Areas We Serve
Our experienced California property crimes attorneys represent clients throughout the state. We provide trusted legal defense in the following areas: Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Inland Empire, Ventura, and other surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Property crimes include any illegal act involving someone else’s property — such as theft, burglary, vandalism, arson, robbery, trespassing, or receiving stolen property. Even attempting to take or damage property can lead to criminal charges.
Theft means taking property that doesn’t belong to you.
Burglary, on the other hand, involves entering a structure (like a home, business, or vehicle) with the intent to commit theft or a felony — even if nothing is actually stolen.
Yes. Petty theft (stealing property worth under $950) is typically a misdemeanor, but it can still lead to up to 6 months in county jail, probation, fines, and a criminal record. If you have prior theft convictions, it may be charged as a felony.
Penalties depend on the type and severity of the charge.
- First-degree (residential) burglary: 2–6 years in state prison.
- Second-degree (commercial) burglary: up to 3 years.
- Robbery: 3–9 years depending on the degree and circumstances.
Aggravating factors — like use of a weapon — can increase these penalties.
Yes, dismissal is possible. Our defense team reviews the case for illegal searches, lack of intent, mistaken identity, or insufficient evidence. Negotiations with the prosecution or diversion programs can also lead to charges being dropped or reduced. We often take advantage of recent criminal justice reform measures in order to get out clients’ cases dismissed.
Absolutely. Even a first-time misdemeanor can have long-term consequences for employment, housing, immigration consequences, and your record. A skilled attorney can often prevent charges from escalating, protect your rights, and help you avoid jail.
Costs vary depending on the complexity of the case, but our firm offers free consultations and possible payment plans. You’ll know your options before committing to representation.
Free Consultation with a California Property Crimes Attorney
If you or a loved one has been accused of a property crime in California, don’t wait.
Call California Criminal Defense Center today for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer.
