Carjacking is different than other crimes involving breaking into or stealing a motor vehicle in that it involves directly taking the car from someone else through the use of force. Because of the increased level of danger and trauma inflicted on the victims over that experienced through traditional auto theft or car burglary charges, the […]
What are the Penalties for Stealing a Catalytic Converter in California?
Catalytic converter theft is dramatically increasing in frequency. This crime may be charged as a misdemeanor or felony in California, depending on the value of the auto part.
Wedding Crashing is a Crime, But Charges Are Rare
While people have been crashing weddings for probably about as long as people have had weddings, the idea of “wedding crashing” really entered the popular consciousness when the Owen Wilson and Vince Vaughn film Wedding Crashers was released in 2005. Since then, many more people have tried their hands at crashing weddings in order to […]
Possession of Burglary Tools, California Penal Code Section 466 (PC)
The mere possession of a crowbar, or even a set of lockpicks, does not make someone a criminal. But if prosecutors can prove the person in possession of these items intended to use them to , then that person could be found guilty of violating California Penal Code Section 466 (PC), aka possession of burglary […]
What to Know About Dognapping Laws in Vista, California
One of the most increasingly common crimes is that of dognapping. Perhaps one of the most surprising things about this crime is the fact that it is usually only charged as petty or grand theft, and a good portion of people accused of the crime only face misdemeanor charges. Here’s what you should know about […]
Grand Theft Auto Charges in Vista, California: Penal Code 487(d)(1) (PC)
If you steal a car in California, you could face a grand theft auto charge (GTA) under Penal Code 487(d)(1) (PC), but you will more likely be charged with unlawful driving or taking of a vehicle, commonly known as “joyriding.” These charges are easier for the prosecution to prove and carry the same penalties, so […]
A Small List of the Many, Many Crimes Committed By the Gang in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
The entire charm of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia relies on watching terrible people do terrible things, but with all the things the gang has done, it’s a minor miracle any of them are still free to walk the streets. Here are a small handful of crimes the gang has committed, along with their potential […]
When to Call a Trespassing Lawyer in Vista
Basic trespassing, filed under California Penal Code 602 (PC), involves entering someone’s property without permission or a right to do so. This offense is usually only charged as an infraction or misdemeanor, punishable by a fine or jail sentence. On the other hand, aggravated trespassing, filed under California Penal Code section 601 (PC), is a […]
Breaking and Entering Under California Law
Police officers in television shows are constantly arresting people for people for “breaking and entering,” which they often shorten to “B&E.” But in most states, including California, breaking and entering isn’t a real crime. It is still illegal to break into homes and businesses, but the actual charge you’ll face will usually be burglary or […]
Is Santa a Christmas Criminal? An Attorney Weighs In
Over the years, many people have questioned whether or not Santa Claus has the right to enter homes and leave gifts behind wherever he goes, wondering if he is breaking and entering or committing a criminal act related to animal abuse, human trafficking, or stalking. While laws may vary from country to country and state […]
