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 […]
Robbery Vs Burglary Vs Theft in California
While burglary, theft, and robbery are often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, they are very distinct crimes from a legal perspective. While burglary isn’t always even a form of theft crime, robbery is a specific type of theft. The issue can be complex, so defense attorney Peter M. Liss put together this guide on distinguishing between robbery vs. burglary […]
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 […]