Los Angeles Juvenile Crime Attorney

Types of Vandalism

Per California Penal Code § 594, vandalism consists of maliciously defacing, damaging or destroying somebody else's property without their permission. Typical examples in juvenile cases may include:

Tagging
Graffiti
Scratching a car with a key
Destroying a letterbox
Throwing eggs at houses
Breaking windows
Slashing tires
Carving initials into wood or cement

The severity of the charges and penalties increases if more than $400 worth of damage is caused or if the offense was committed as a hate crime. If your child has a prior criminal record, this can also have a bearing on the outcome of the case. If the prosecution alleges the vandalism was committed to support gang activity, this can result in enhanced charges. Your child may be charged for vandalism even if he or she was only found to be in possession of certain markers or tools typically used in these crimes. For a conviction in this case, however, the prosecution must prove that your child actually intended to use these items to commit vandalism.

In some cases, vandalism can be charged as a felony and involve imprisonment and severe fines. As the parent, you will be responsible for the cost of the damage if your child is convicted on either a misdemeanor or felony charge. A Los Angeles juvenile crime lawyer can take steps to fight against the consequences of your child's felony charges.

Juvenile Crime Attorney in Los Angeles

When it comes to juvenile crimes, we, Mark Haushalter & Ryan Okabe, are well equipped to fight effectively for justice. Mark Haushalter's prior experience as a prosecutor and Ryan Okabe's time in the Los Angeles County D.A.'s Office provides unique insight into how such cases will be prosecuted. Combined with our familiarity with the California juvenile court system and our legal expertise, we have the resources with which to aggressively defend your child.

If your child has been accused of vandalism, contact a Los Angeles juvenile crime attorney today.