Property Crimes

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:

• Theft and Petty Theft – Taking someone else’s property without permission.
• Burglary – Entering a building or vehicle with intent to commit theft or another felony.
• Robbery – Taking property directly from another person using force or intimidation.
• Vandalism – Damaging or destroying another’s property, including graffiti or property damage.
• Arson – Intentionally setting fire to property or land.
• Trespassing – Entering another’s property without consent.
• Shoplifting – Stealing merchandise from a retail store.
• Receiving Stolen Property – Knowingly possessing or buying property obtained through theft.
• Embezzlement – 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.

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.