Charged with Theft, Burglary, or Robbery in Los Angeles? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re facing theft, burglary, or robbery charges in California, the consequences can be severe. Convictions for these offenses may result in jail or prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. If you or a loved one is accused, securing a skilled Los Angeles theft, burglary, and robbery defense attorney is crucial to protecting your future.

But what distinguishes theft, burglary, and robbery? How are these crimes penalized under California law? And most importantly, how can a dedicated Los Angeles criminal defense lawyer help fight your charges? Read on to learn more.

What is Considered Theft in California?

Theft, also referred to as larceny in California, is classified based on the value and type of the stolen property. Theft charges can include:

• Petty Theft: Involves stolen property valued under $950.
• Grand Theft: Applies if the stolen property exceeds $950, involves firearms, vehicles, animals, or specific agricultural products valued over $250.
• Failure to Return Property: Keeping rental cars, borrowed items, or library books beyond the agreed return date can also lead to larceny charges.

A felony grand theft conviction can result in up to three years in prison, while a misdemeanor theft conviction carries up to one year in county jail.

Theft vs. Burglary: What’s the Difference?

While theft involves unlawfully taking property, burglary includes the element of unlawful entry. Under California law, burglary occurs when an individual enters a building, home, or vehicle intending to commit theft or another crime.

• First-Degree (Residential) Burglary: A felony offense that carries severe penalties, including potential prison time and hefty fines.
• Second-Degree (Commercial) Burglary: This may be charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances.

Even if no property is stolen, simply entering a structure with intent to commit theft can lead to a burglary conviction.

What is Robbery Under California Law?

Robbery differs from theft and burglary because it involves the use of force, violence, or intimidation to take someone’s property. In California, robbery is always a felony and is categorized as:

• First-Degree Robbery: Includes crimes occurring inside an inhabited structure, against ATM users, or involving public transportation passengers or drivers. Conviction can result in up to nine years in state prison.
• Second-Degree Robbery: Any other robbery that doesn’t meet first-degree criteria, carrying a sentence of up to five years in prison.

Carjacking: A Special Type of Robbery

Carjacking occurs when someone uses force or threats to steal a vehicle directly from its owner. Unlike grand theft auto, carjacking is prosecuted under a separate California statute and carries a potential prison sentence of up to nine years.

Possession of Stolen Property: What You Need to Know

Even if you didn’t commit theft, simply possessing stolen property can lead to criminal charges. Depending on the circumstances, you may face either:

Felony Possession of Stolen Property: Up to three years in prison.

Misdemeanor Possession of Stolen Property: Up to one year in jail.

Defending Against Theft, Burglary, and Robbery Charges

Wrongful accusations happen more often than you think. Perhaps you were misidentified, believed you had a right to the property, or the charges were fabricated. Regardless of the situation, the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. Without an experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney, your chances of conviction increase significantly.

Why Choose Tulekyan Law for Your Criminal Defense?

At Tulekyan Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with criminal charges. Led by award-winning attorney Agavni Tulekyan, our firm is committed to providing aggressive, personalized defense strategies for individuals accused of theft, burglary, or robbery in Los Angeles.

• Comprehensive Case Analysis: We thoroughly examine every detail to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
• Strong Defense Strategies: Whether negotiating plea deals or taking your case to trial, we fight for the best possible outcome.
• Affordable Legal Fees & Payment Plans: We believe quality defense should be accessible, which is why we offer flexible payment options.

Take Action Now: Contact a Top Los Angeles Theft and Burglary Lawyer

If you’re facing criminal charges, Tulekyan Law Criminal Defense Lawyers are here to help. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation.

Don’t wait—contact us today for a free case consultation and protect your future!