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San Diego Vandalism Attorney

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Vandalism California Penal Code 594 

Penal Code 594 restricts damaging someone else’s property. Any person that enters a building through force and damages or completely demolishes their property is considered to be Vandalism pursuant to California Penal Code 594.

Vandalism is the hateful assault to another’s property. The key phrase to remember with vandalism is “hateful”. When a person willfully damages, defaces, or destroys someone’s property, it is considered vandalism.

Punishments associated with vandalism are often underestimated. It is important to understand that no punishment for a crime is to be taken lightly. Many employers will see your vandalism charges and think your more trouble than your worth. Most employers will not hire potentially problematic individuals.

In California, vandalism is punishable in three ways: an infraction, a misdemeanor, or a felony. The deciding factor in the penalty is the value of the property damaged. If costs are equal to less than $250, you are likely to be charged with an infraction. Under California Penal Code 594, you can be charged with a misdemeanor if damages value less than $400. Damages equaling $400 or more will result in a felony.

If you have been charged with vandalism, a San Diego criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Bradley R. Corbett will help you through the anxiety and confusion that you are feeling. Our experienced team will provide you with vandalism defense attorney who knows how these cases are prosecuted.

Vandalism of School Property

Vandalism of school property can greatly affect the student involved as well as their parents if the student is a minor, and whoever is accused may face criminal and civil charges. While most students vandalize school property to gain popularity, it comes with serious consequences. If your child has been charged with vandalism, a San Diego attorney at the Law Offices of Bradley R. Corbett can help them regain their freedom.

Don’t Face Your Case Alone

It is possible for a person charged with vandalism to be charged with other related crimes such as burglary, arson, and gang violence. No matter what charges you face, a San Diego criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Bradley R. Corbett will work with you and the prosecutor to try and reduce the charges. Call us today for a free consultation with one of our criminal defense attorneys.

Why You Need a Vandalism Attorney?

Penal Code 594 – Vandalism Defense in California

At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we aggressively defend individuals charged with vandalism under California Penal Code 594. Vandalism can range from minor property damage to serious felony charges, depending on the circumstances. So you will need an expert vandalism attorney on your side. If you are facing PC 594 vandalism charges in San Diego County, including cases at the Vista Courthouse, East County El Cajon Court, South Bay Chula Vista Court, or the Downtown Courthouse at 1100 Union Street, you need an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney who understands how to fight these cases and minimize the consequences.

Understanding Penal Code 594 – What Is Vandalism?

Under PC 594, vandalism is defined as maliciously defacing, damaging, or destroying someone else’s property. This includes actions such as:
  • Graffiti or unauthorized markings on walls, signs, or vehicles
  • Breaking windows or damaging storefronts
  • Keying or scratching someone’s car
  • Damaging property during an altercation

Elements of a PC 594 Vandalism Charge

To convict someone of vandalism, the prosecution must prove:
  1. Malicious Intent – The act was willful and intentional, not accidental.
  2. Defacing, Damaging, or Destroying Property – The defendant physically altered or harmed property.
  3. Property Belonged to Someone Else – The property did not belong to the defendant.
  4. Monetary Damage Amount – The value of the damage determines whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony.

Wobbler Charges – Misdemeanor vs. Felony Vandalism

Vandalism is a wobbler offense, meaning it can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony, depending on the damage amount and circumstances.

Misdemeanor Vandalism (Damage Under $400)

  • Up to 1 year in county jail
  • Up to $1,000 fine (or $5,000 if there are prior vandalism convictions)
  • Community service and probation
  • Graffiti removal and restitution payments

Felony Vandalism (Damage Over $400)

  • Up to 3 years in state prison
  • Up to $10,000 fine (or up to $50,000 if the damage exceeds $10,000)
  • Formal probation
  • Court-ordered restitution to the property owner

Additional Penalty Enhancements

  • Gang-Related Vandalism (PC 186.22) – If connected to gang activity, penalties can increase significantly.
  • Hate Crime Enhancement (PC 422.6) – If the vandalism targeted a person’s race, religion, or sexual orientation, penalties increase.
  • Vandalizing Government or School Property – May result in harsher sentences.

Civil Compromise – A Path to Case Dismissal

One of the best strategies for getting vandalism charges dismissed is through a civil compromise. This allows the defendant to pay for damages in exchange for having charges dropped. The benefits include:
  • No criminal conviction on your record
  • Avoiding jail time and probation
  • No fines or community service
  • Maintaining employment and a clean background
We have successfully negotiated civil compromises for numerous clients in San Diego County, ensuring that vandalism charges do not impact their future.

Defenses Against Vandalism Charges

At the Law Office of Bradley Corbett, we use proven defense strategies to fight vandalism charges, such as:

1. Lack of Malicious Intent

If the damage was accidental, then the prosecution cannot prove intent, and the charges should be dismissed.

2. Mistaken Identity & False Accusations

Vandalism often happens in public areas, leading to misidentifications and wrongful arrests. We investigate:
  • Surveillance footage
  • Eyewitness statements
  • Alibi evidence

3. No Proof of Damage Amount

If the prosecution cannot prove that the damage was over $400, the charge should be reduced to a misdemeanor or dismissed.

4. Violation of Constitutional Rights

If law enforcement conducted an illegal search, unlawful arrest, or coerced a confession, we can suppress evidence and get charges dropped.

5. Civil Compromise Negotiations

In cases where restitution is possible, we work with the victim to reach a civil compromise, avoiding criminal penalties.

Why Choose the Law Office of Bradley Corbett?

Bradley R. Corbett_Criminal Defense Attorney_Vandalism Attorney

1. Extensive Experience Handling Vandalism Cases

We have successfully defended hundreds of vandalism cases, securing dismissals and reduced charges.

2. Strong Reputation in San Diego Courthouses

We regularly appear at the Vista Courthouse, East County El Cajon Court, South Bay Chula Vista Court, and the Downtown Courthouse at 1100 Union Street, giving us deep insight into local judges and prosecutors.

3. Aggressive Negotiation for Civil Compromise

We work directly with property owners to secure civil compromises that can result in dismissed charges.

4. Protecting Your Future

A vandalism conviction can affect job opportunities, housing applications, and personal reputation. We fight to protect your record.

Contact bradley 24/7 nights & weekends

Don’t wait until it is too late! Delaying or even denying yourself the counsel and strength we can provide you could have life changing consequences. Call us today and let an experienced San Diego criminal defense attorney help you protect your freedoms, life, and family.

Talk to Us Now

San Diego Office
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8880 Rio San Diego Dr. Suite 800 San Diego, CA 92108 Tel: (619) 800-4449
North County Office
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440 S Melrose Dr, Suite 204 Vista , CA 92081 Tel: (760) 201-9839
Temecula Office
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41593 Winchester Rd #200 Temecula, CA 92590 Tel: (951) 732-8611
Email: Bradley@Bradleycorbettlaw.com