The holiday season typically sees a rash of certain types of crime. That’s partly because, while many people are busy shopping or attending holiday parties with friends, colleagues, and family, there are those among us who have something a little less festive on their minds. If you have been charged with one of these crimes, it would behoove you to speak to a local experienced criminal defense attorney right away.
- DUI: Unquestionably, drinking and driving don’t mix. Sadly, plenty of people imagine they can manage it, and wind up with charges that could land them behind bars for up to six months for a first offense, and 10 years in prison if it’s a second offense. Accidents that cause injury or death have even tougher penalties—and all of this is on top of fines, penalties, having an ignition interlock device installed in your car, having a license suspension, and mandatory classes.
- Theft: Anyone who is tempted to steal merchandise from a crowded store, thinking they can get away with it, may be surprised by undercover security who show up just in time to make an arrest. A first offense could result in six months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Felony charges involving larger values could mean three years in state prison on top of a $10,000 fine.
- Identity theft: Identity theft can occur in different ways, resulting in a variety of penalties. Using a fake ID to purchase alcohol or get into a bar, for instance, could result in a $250 fine and 32 hours of community service, on top of losing your driver’s license for a full year. Those penalties increase with subsequent incidents. Something more nefarious, like major identity theft or credit card fraud, however, could mean three years in state prison. Fines are often attached to these crimes, as well, which could mean $10,000 out the window. Restitution may be ordered for victims, as well.
- Residential burglary: Anyone charged with burglary—breaking into a home to steal personal property—is facing felony charges. That translates into up to six years in prison and $10,000 in fines. If the accused uses a deadly weapon or if anyone is injured, the penalties increase. Another thing to consider is the fact that a conviction counts as a strike against the Three Strikes Law, which means even harsher sentences are on the table.
- Commercial Burglary: When charged as a misdemeanor, a conviction could put you behind bars for a year and slap you with a $1,000 fine. A felony conviction brings the possibility of three years in state prison and a $10,000 fine. All of these penalties increase if the value of stolen property is over $200,000.
- Robbery and Jugging: Robbing a home or vehicle, or jugging—watching people in banks and at ATMs and later robbing them—can be charged as a felony. A conviction could mean six years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Fighting for You
The knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys at Boertje & Associates always fight for the best possible outcomes for you. To discuss, schedule a confidential consultation in our San Diego office today.