Vandalism

Misdemeanor ∙ Felony
Orange County Criminal Defense Attorney

Paying the Price of Property Damage

Vandalism is a serious crime that shouldn’t be treated lightly. From defacing another’s property with inscribed material or graffiti to damaging or destroying someone else’s real or personal possessions, in California—especially Orange County—the potential exists for stiff penalties and a criminal record. That’s why you need a skilled and experienced Orange County criminal defense attorney, with years trying California cases, in your court. That’s why you need Barney Gibbs.

Misdemeanor or Felony

According to California Penal Code §594, vandalism is a crime that can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony. On-the-fence types of crimes such as these, ones that can go in either direction, are particularly vulnerable to many circumstances surrounding the crime; unfortunately, so is your future. Only a reputable Orange County criminal defense attorney who thoroughly knows the California legal system, courts, and prosecutors—such as Barney Gibbs—can offer the most effective defense possible.

Vandalism Penalties

Depending on the amount of damage, number and type of previous offenses, age of the offender, and other factors, the crime of vandalism is punishable in either county jail, imprisonment, through community service and/or with counseling. In Orange County, vandalism usually accompanies other serious offenses and contributes to more severe penalties, requiring an even tougher defense.

The common image of vandalism includes someone spray-painting graffiti on a building in the middle of the night. While this image is certainly accurate, there’s much more to California vandalism. Under California Penal Codes (594, 640), in Orange County, vandalism was the charge for the following crimes:

California Penal Code 594:

  • The possession of aerosol paint containers by a minor
  • Possessing tools that could be used for vandalism
  • Vandalizing by the use of caustic or noxious chemicals
  • Vandalizing churches or synagogues

California Penal Code 640:

  • Vandalizing government vehicles or facilities
  • Vandalizing near or on freeways
  • Vandalizing near or on highways

Mischief is a Costly Mistake

When it comes to Orange County vandalism, in the case of juveniles, vandalism frequently occurs as a form of graffiti or damage to an abandoned property. For adults, Orange County vandalism charges are often a result of property damage to possessions they share with a cohabitant. In either case, the California courts are unsympathetic, and routinely dole out harsh penalties. Orange County criminal attorney, Barney Gibbs, uses his years in the California courtrooms to your favor. From fine reduction to alternative sentences and case dismissals, Orange County vandalism charges needn’t ruin your life.

Since 1983

Barney Gibbs is no stranger to Orange County criminal defense. A local resident himself, this California criminal lawyer has been handling Orange County vandalism cases for several decades, winning uphill battles when other attorneys thought there wasn’t a fighting chance. With hundreds of outright dismissals to his credit, on any given day Attorney Gibbs can be found in the Orange County courts, aggressively defending someone’s rights.

FREE Consultations

If you’ve been charged with the crime of vandalism, do yourself a favor and contact Barney Gibbs today. His years as Orange County criminal defense attorney, coupled with a winning track record, give him the advantage over other California lawyers. Contact Mr. Gibbs for a FREE consultation, to meet him face-to-face, and discuss the details of your Orange County vandalism case.

If anyone can fight your battles, it’s Barney Gibbs.