Vandalism Defense in Orange County, CA
Crimes Involving Property Damage
Vandalism is a serious crime. From defacing another’s property with inscribed material or graffiti to damaging someone else’s personal possessions, the potential exists for stiff penalties and a criminal record. That’s why you need a skilled and experienced Anaheim criminal defense lawyer, with years trying California cases, in your court. That’s why you need The Law Office of Barney B. Gibbs.
Why You Should Call Us for Your Defense:
- More Than 30 Years of Legal Experience
- More Than 2,500 Cases Personally Handled
- 1,100+ Counts Dismissed
- AV Preeminent® Rating by Martindale-Hubbell®
- Flexible Payment & Financing Options
What are common vandalism crimes?
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.
California Penal Code § 594:
- 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
Penalties for Vandalism in California
Vandalism is punishable in either county jail, imprisonment, through community service, and/or with counseling, depending on several different factors, such as the following:
- Amount of Damage
- Number & Type of Prior Offenses
- Age of the Offender
Penalties will also depend largely on the cost of the damages. If you are found guilty of vandalism with under $400 worth of damages, it will be a misdemeanor punishable by:
if you are found guilty of vandalism with under $400 worth of damages, it will be a misdemeanor punishable by:
- Up to 1 Year in County Jail
- Up to $1,000 Fine (First Conviction)
- Up to $5,000 Fine (Subsequent Convictions)
- Informal Probation
- Up to 2 Year Driver's License Suspension
- Mandatory Counseling
- Community Service
If the damages in the case are in excess of $400 and it is a misdemeanor, penalties include:
- Up to 1 Year in County Jail
- Up to $10,000 Fine (First Conviction)
- Up to $50,000 Fine (If Damage is $10,000+)
- Informal Probation
- Up to 2 Year Driver's License Suspension
- Mandatory Counseling
- Community Service
In cases where the damage is in excess of $400 and it is a felony, you may be punished with either up to a year in county jail with probation of up to three years in county jail without probation. If you are able to achieve probation, you will also lose your driver's license for up to two years.
Call Now for a FREE Criminal Defense Consultation
In the case of juveniles, vandalism frequently occurs as a form of graffiti or damage to an abandoned property. For adults, 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. Criminal Attorney Barney Gibbs can use his years of experience to your favor. From fine reduction to alternative sentences and case dismissals, these charges needn’t ruin your life.
Attorney Gibbs' years as a defense lawyer, coupled with a winning track record, give him a distinct advantage. Call now for a FREE consultation, where you can meet your defense lawyer face-to-face and discuss the details of your case. Take the first step today!
If you’ve been charged with the crime of vandalism, do yourself a favor and contact The Law Office of Barney B. Gibbs today.
