California Penal Code 594
Are you facing charges for Vandalism? Violation of Penal Code 594 can be a serious felony or misdemeanor offense. Depending upon the circumstances surrounding your case, you could be ordered to serve time in jail and pay thousands of dollars to repair any alleged damages. With assistance from a skilled vandalism defense lawyer, you may be able to avoid a conviction as well as any associated penalties. Call us today to get help now.
How PC 594 Is Prosecuted
According to California Penal Code 594, anyone who willfully defaces or damages a person’s property can be found guilty of committing Vandalism.
In order to prosecute for Vandalism penal code violations, state prosecutors have the burden to prove you are guilty of:
- Damaging, defacing or destroying someone’s property
- Doing so intentionally
A person’s property can be a building, otherwise known as real property or personal property , which includes cars, furniture or other items of value.
What Are the Penalties for Vandalism?
The penalties or punishment for CPC 594 Vandalism depends on the property’s value:
- Property worth less than $250 – a potential infraction
- Property worth more than $250 but less than $400 — potential misdemeanor
- Property worth more than $400 – potential felony or misdemeanor charge
CPC 594 Vandalism can be filed under (infraction, felony or misdemeanor), and those found guilty can face:
- Infraction – Community service and a maximum $1,000 fine
- Misdemeanor – informal probation, Up to 1 Year in the Orange County Jail and a maximum $1,000 fine
- Felony – Up to 1 Year in the Orange County Jail and a maximum $10,000 fine
Other Potential Penalties:
In addition to charges based on value, defendants can face other potential charges depending on several factors. For example, if this is a repeat offense, then fines can be increased. Those charges filed as a misdemeanor can also risk a suspended license, community service, counseling, and or repair of property. If it’s a repeat misdemeanor offense, fines can be increased by up to $5,000. If charged with a felony and the damage is greater than $10,000, the fines can be increased to $50,000.
Vandalism Legal Defense
If you are facing vandalism charges for California Penal Code Section 594, a Law Offices of Randy Collins attorney can help you. By taking advantage of a free consultation you will receive information that will help you make informed decisions moving forward. Call or fill out our contact form to get in touch with a skilled attorney for which you will have no obligation to retain services.