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California Petty Theft and Other Theft Laws
California’s lawmakers define theft as the intentional and unlawful taking of property. In order for a theft to occur, the offender must intend to permanently deprive the owner of the property. (Cal. Pen. Code, § 484.)
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Shoplifting Charges in California
Shoplifting is a serious crime in California, with criminal penalties including jail time and fines. In addition to criminal penalties, shoplifters face civil lawsuits by victimized merchants to recover damages.
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Embezzlement is a kind of property theft. It occurs when someone who was entrusted to manage or monitor someone else’s money or property steals all or part of that money or property for the defendant’s personal gain.
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What are the consequences and penalties of auto theft in California?
California has two different statutes that criminalize auto theft. The only difference is whether the defendant intends to take the car temporarily or permanently. Each crime may be punished as a misdemeanor or a felony.
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Burglary and Home Invasions in California
In California, a person commits the crime of burglary by entering into a vehicle or building in order to commit a crime inside. Residential burglary, sometimes called home invasion burglary, is punished more severely. California also has laws against unauthorized entry or trespass (entering a residence without permission).
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California Minor in Possession of Alcohol Charges and Penalties
California’s minor in possession (MIP) laws aim to deter underage drinking. Minors can be charged with an MIP offense for consuming alcohol in public, possessing alcohol, purchasing alcohol, or even holding an unopened container.
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Possession of a Controlled Substance in California
California classifies not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine as controlled substances, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.
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California Medical Marijuana Laws
California allows medical marijuana use under the circumstances described below. However, it is still a crime to drive under the influence of marijuana, and other laws regarding marijuana possession for non-medical purposes will also still apply.
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Marijuana possession, sale, and distribution is regulated by both state and federal law. In California, possession of a small amount is legal.
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Gun Storage Laws in California
Leaving a loaded gun where a child can find it is not only dangerous, but in some states, including California, it is also illegal and can result in criminal charges for the gun owner.
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A stun gun (popularly also known as a Taser, the main maker of stun guns) is a device that is used or intended to be used as either an offensive or defensive weapon, which is capable of temporarily immobilizing a person by inflicting an electrical charge.