Los Angeles Theft & Property Crimes Attorney

Commonly Asked Questions

What to do if I'm charged with vandalism in Los Angeles County?

Vandalism involves defacing, destroying, or otherwise damaging public/private property. Examples of it include:

• Keying a car or slashing tires
• Leaving graffiti on walls, signs, etc.
• Smashing the mailboxes in a neighborhood
• Destroying or damaging someone else’s personal property during an argument or as an act of revenge

Although vandalism is often considered a “petty” crime, the penalties for a conviction can be serious. They might include thousands of dollars in fines and restitution, probation or jail time, and the mandatory restoration or cleanup of the property (if possible).

At Zarabi Law, we take vandalism cases very seriously. If you have been accused of this crime, we can aggressively pursue numerous defenses. Our team can argue that someone else defaced the property, you destroyed the property accidentally, you had permission from the property owner to act as you did, or you actually were the property owner. The right approach will depend on the circumstances of your case and our detailed assessment of the evidence.

What are the penalties for theft in Los Angeles?

The penalties for theft vary depending on the type and severity of the crime. Petty theft (property under $950) is typically charged as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Grand theft (property over $950) may be charged as a felony or misdemeanor, with penalties ranging from one year in county jail to three years in state prison. Shoplifting is usually a misdemeanor, while robbery and burglary carry harsher sentences, especially if a weapon is involved. Repeat offenses and theft from elderly or disabled victims can lead to enhanced penalties.

Can theft charges be dropped in Los Angeles?

Yes, theft charges can be dropped under certain conditions. Prosecutors may dismiss charges if there is insufficient evidence, if the accused was mistakenly identified, or if police violated legal procedures, such as an unlawful search. Pretrial diversion programs or deferred entry of judgment (DEJ) may also allow first-time offenders to have their charges dropped after completing community service, restitution, or rehabilitation programs. An experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to have charges reduced or dismissed based on the specifics of the case.

What are common defenses against theft charges?

Several defenses can be used in theft cases, depending on the circumstances. A common defense is lack of intent, where the accused may have taken an item by mistake without intending to steal. Mistaken identity or false accusations can also play a role, especially in cases relying on surveillance footage or witness testimony. Consent is another defense—if the owner of the property allowed the accused to take it, it is not considered theft. In some cases, a violation of constitutional rights (such as an illegal search and seizure) may result in evidence being thrown out, weakening the prosecution’s case.

Will a theft charge stay on my record?

A theft conviction in Los Angeles can have long-term consequences, including a criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses. However, certain theft offenses may qualify for expungement under California law. If an individual successfully completes probation or serves their sentence, they may petition the court to remove the conviction from their record. While an expunged record won’t erase all traces of the charge, it can improve job prospects and background checks. Juvenile theft offenses may also be sealed under California’s juvenile record laws.