Controlled Substance Possession – HS 11350 & HS 11377

In California, accusations of possession of a controlled substance is charged under different types of statutes. After the passing of Proposition 47, all simple possession charges, which were previously straight felonies, are now misdemeanors. Simple possession charges are charged by the government under Health & Safety Code 11350(a) or Health & Safety Code 11377. When […]

“Bad Check” Charges – California Penal Code 476 PC

In California, knowingly passing a check with insufficient funds with the specific intent to defraud the recipient (“Check Fraud”) is charged under Penal Code 476. If the check amount is for $950 or less, then the prosecution will charge you with a misdemeanor violation of this offense. If the check amount exceeds $950, the offense […]

California “Counterfeit Goods” Law – Penal Code 350 PC

In California, Trademark Infringement / Counterfeit Marks is charged under Penal Code 350 which makes it a crime to possess for sale, actually sell, or manufacture any counterfeit goods with a registered trademark. Goods encompasses anything from sunglasses, purses, wallets, clothing and apparel. In most instances, the goods are manufactured overseas but sold within the […]

Receiving Stolen Property | California Penal Code 496 PC

In California, “Receiving Stolen Property” is a theft offense charged under Penal Code 496(a). If the value of the property is $950 or less, the prosecutor will charge you with a misdemeanor. However, if the property value exceeds $950, then the prosecutor holds discretion to charge you with either a felony or misdemeanor. The property […]

California “Shoplifting” Laws │ Penal Code 459.5 PC

In California, shoplifting is charged under penal code 459.5(a) pc making it a misdemeanor to enter a commercial establishment during regular hours with the specific purpose of committing a theft crime worth $950 or less. Moreover, the attempt of committing a theft crime will suffice to charge you with this offense. Previously, if you entered […]

“Grand Theft” Charges │ California Penal Code 487 PC

In California, allegations of “Grand Theft” are charged under Penal Code 487 pc. Simply put, if the amount in controversy exceeds $950, then the prosecutor will charge you with grand theft. If the amount is $950 or less, then you are not guilty of this crime but the government may elect to charge you with […]

“Theft by False Pretenses” │ California Penal Code 532 PC

In California, “False Pretenses” is a form of theft charged under Penal Code 532(a). The punishment for this offense, as discussed later in this article, will depend largely on the value of the item(s) or money conveyed. The legal issue often litigated under this charge is usually whether you made a false representation of a […]

“Embezzlement” Charges | California Penal Code 503 PC

In California, Embezzlement is a theft offense charged under Penal Code 503 pc. This charge arises when you’ve been in a trusted position to possess or handle property or funds and you convert the property or monies to your own benefit with the intent to permanently deprive or deprive the owner for an extended period of […]