Santa Barbara Theft & Property Crimes

57+ Years of Combined Experience

Facing Theft or Property Crimes Charges in Santa Barbara? Know Your Options

Being charged with theft or property crimes can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone, and you have options. Whether you’re dealing with shoplifting allegations from State Street retailers or Paseo Nuevo shopping center, petty theft charges, grand theft accusations involving property over $950, burglary charges from residential or commercial break-ins in Santa Barbara, receiving stolen property offenses, vehicle theft or joyriding allegations, robbery charges involving force or fear, or serious felony property crimes that could result in strike convictions and prison time, understanding your charges is the first step toward protecting your freedom and future in Santa Barbara’s community.

At Central Coast Criminal Defense, we’ve helped Santa Barbara residents defend against theft and property crimes since 2010. We know the Santa Barbara County courts at Anacapa courthouse, the prosecutors, and—most importantly—we know how to fight for results that protect what matters most to you.

What Are Theft and Property Crimes in California?

Theft and property crimes in California encompass offenses involving taking or damaging another person’s property without permission. The primary distinction in California theft law is between petty theft involving property valued under $950 (a misdemeanor under Proposition 47) and grand theft involving property valued over $950 or theft of specific items like firearms and vehicles regardless of value (a felony). Theft under Penal Code Sections 484-488 requires proof that you took someone else’s property without permission with intent to permanently deprive the owner—meaning you intended to keep it, not just borrow it temporarily. Burglary under PC 459 is more serious than simple theft because it involves entering buildings, rooms, or structures with intent to commit theft or any felony—you don’t have to actually steal anything, just enter with criminal intent. First-degree residential burglary is always a felony and counts as strike under Three Strikes law, while second-degree commercial burglary can be charged as misdemeanor or felony. Robbery under PC 211 is the most serious property crime because it involves taking property from someone’s person or immediate presence through force or fear—it’s always a felony, always a strike, and carries 2-9 years in state prison.

In Santa Barbara and throughout Santa Barbara County, theft and property crimes commonly involve shoplifting at State Street retailers, Paseo Nuevo shopping center, and La Cumbre Plaza where loss prevention officers detain suspects, employee theft from Santa Barbara businesses including restaurants, hotels, retail stores, and tourism industry employers, vehicle theft and joyriding including cars stolen from residential areas and parking lots near beaches, residential burglaries in Santa Barbara neighborhoods particularly in Westside, Eastside, and Upper East areas, commercial burglaries targeting businesses along State Street and in downtown Santa Barbara, receiving stolen property purchased through online marketplaces or from individuals, organized retail theft rings hitting multiple State Street stores, vandalism and graffiti throughout Santa Barbara neighborhoods and downtown, and robbery offenses ranging from street robberies to commercial robberies at Santa Barbara businesses. The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office prosecutes property crimes seriously at Anacapa courthouse, particularly when victims are small local Santa Barbara businesses suffering financial losses, when thefts involve organized retail crime rings, when burglaries involve occupied residences creating danger to inhabitants, or when defendants have prior theft convictions showing patterns of criminal behavior demonstrating recidivism.

What many people charged with theft and property crimes in Santa Barbara don’t understand is that Proposition 47 (passed 2014) provides powerful opportunities for charge reductions when property values are under $950, but prosecutors often overcharge by inflating valuations to justify felonies or by charging burglary when simple shoplifting occurred at State Street stores or Paseo Nuevo. Additionally, many theft allegations involve valid defenses including lack of intent to permanently deprive when defendants intended to return property or believed they would pay later, mistake of fact when defendants genuinely believed they had permission to take items, claim of right when defendants took property believing it belonged to them due to debts or ownership disputes, and false accusations from loss prevention officers who detained wrong persons or employers blaming employees for business losses having other causes. For burglary charges specifically, prosecutors must prove intent to commit theft or felony existed at the moment of entry—if you entered lawfully or developed intent to steal only after entering, burglary charges should not apply. Without aggressive representation that challenges property valuations, contests criminal intent, pursues Proposition 47 reductions and diversion programs, and fights strike convictions for residential burglary, you risk felony convictions creating crimes of moral turpitude affecting immigration and employment opportunities in Santa Barbara’s tourism-dependent economy where background checks are standard.

Legal Definition: Theft (PC 484-488) involves taking property without permission with intent to permanently deprive owner, classified as petty theft under $950 or grand theft over $950, while burglary (PC 459) involves entering structures with intent to commit theft or felony with residential burglary counting as strike, and robbery (PC 211) involves taking property through force or fear always constituting strike offense carrying 2-9 years prison.
Why It’s Prosecuted: California prosecutes property crimes to protect Santa Barbara businesses from financial losses particularly small local companies and tourism industry, deter organized retail theft rings targeting State Street and Paseo Nuevo, hold accountable those who violate sanctity of homes through residential burglary, compensate victims through restitution, and maintain public safety and economic stability in the community.
Common Triggers: Shoplifting at State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo with loss prevention detentions, employee theft from Santa Barbara hotels and restaurants, vehicle theft from residential areas and beach parking lots, residential burglaries in Westside and Eastside neighborhoods, commercial burglaries along State Street, receiving stolen property through online sales, organized retail theft operations, and robbery offenses at businesses or on streets.

Important: Even if you believe charges are minor, theft convictions create crimes of moral turpitude affecting immigration and careers in Santa Barbara’s hospitality industry. Do not speak to police without attorney. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 now for guidance.

Theft and Property Crimes We Defend in Santa Barbara

We defend clients against all theft and property crimes in Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara County, and surrounding areas. Here are the charges we handle:

Misdemeanor Theft Offenses

Petty Theft / Shoplifting (PC 484/488/459.5)
Taking property valued under $950 from State Street stores or individuals | Max penalty: 6 months county jail, diversion program eligibility, restitution
Petty Theft from Person
Pickpocketing or taking property directly from victim under $950 | Max penalty: 6 months county jail, elevated because taken from person
Misdemeanor Receiving Stolen Property (PC 496)
Buying or possessing stolen property valued under $950 | Max penalty: 1 year county jail, restitution to victims

Felony Theft Charges

Grand Theft (PC 487)
Taking property valued over $950, or theft of firearms/vehicles | Max penalty: 3 years state prison, substantial restitution
Grand Theft Auto (PC 487(d)(1))
Stealing vehicles regardless of value | Max penalty: 3 years state prison, vehicle restitution
Grand Theft from Person (PC 487(c))
Taking property over $950 directly from victim | Max penalty: 3 years state prison, elevated seriousness
Felony Receiving Stolen Property (PC 496)
Buying or possessing stolen property over $950 | Max penalty: 3 years state prison, restitution

Burglary Offenses

First-Degree Residential Burglary (PC 459)
Entering inhabited dwellings with intent to commit theft or felony | Max penalty: 6 years state prison, strike offense under Three Strikes law
Second-Degree Commercial Burglary (PC 459)
Entering commercial buildings with intent to commit theft or felony | Max penalty: 3 years state prison or 1 year jail if misdemeanor
Auto Burglary (PC 459)
Entering locked vehicles with intent to commit theft | Max penalty: 3 years state prison
Shoplifting (PC 459.5)
Entering commercial establishments during business hours with intent to steal property under $950 | Max penalty: 6 months county jail under Proposition 47

Robbery Offenses

Robbery (PC 211)
Taking property from person or immediate presence through force or fear | Max penalty: 2-5 years state prison for second-degree, 3-9 years for first-degree, strike offense
Armed Robbery
Robbery using firearms or deadly weapons | Max penalty: Enhanced penalties including 10-year firearm enhancement, strike offense
Carjacking (PC 215)
Taking vehicles from person through force or fear | Max penalty: 3-9 years state prison, strike offense
Home Invasion Robbery (Estes Robbery)
Robbery committed inside inhabited dwelling | Max penalty: Enhanced penalties, strike offense

Vehicle-Related Crimes

Vehicle Theft / Joyriding (VC 10851)
Unlawfully taking or driving vehicles without owner consent | Max penalty: 1 year jail or 3 years prison depending on value
Unlawful Driving or Taking of Vehicle
Temporary unauthorized use of vehicles | Defense: Show intent to return, demonstrate permission, contest ownership

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Theft

Hotel Theft and Fraud
Theft from Santa Barbara hotels, resorts, or guests | Consequences: Employment termination in hospitality industry, restitution
Restaurant Employee Theft
Theft by employees at Santa Barbara restaurants and bars | Defense: Challenge valuations, demonstrate bookkeeping errors, contest intent
Retail Employee Theft
Theft by employees at State Street retailers | Strategy: Negotiate restitution, pursue diversion, avoid felony conviction

Additional Property Crimes

Organized Retail Theft (PC 490.4) – Coordinated theft for resale targeting State Street and Paseo Nuevo retailers
Employee Theft (PC 484/503) – Stealing from Santa Barbara employers in hospitality and tourism
Embezzlement (PC 503) – Fraudulent appropriation by person in position of trust
Theft by False Pretenses (PC 532) – Obtaining property through lies or misrepresentations
Identity Theft (PC 530.5) – Using another person’s identifying information for theft or fraud
Credit Card Fraud (PC 484f-484j) – Using stolen or fraudulent credit cards
Check Fraud (PC 476) – Forging or uttering fraudulent checks
Theft from Elder (PC 368) – Stealing from victims 65 or older
Mail Theft (PC 530.5e) – Stealing mail from mailboxes
Possession of Burglary Tools (PC 466) – Possessing tools intended for burglary
Trespassing (PC 602) – Entering property without permission
Vandalism (PC 594) – Damaging or defacing property in Santa Barbara neighborhoods
Arson (PC 451) – Willfully setting fires to structures or property
Extortion (PC 518) – Obtaining property through threats or coercion

Don’t see your charge listed? This list covers common theft and property crimes, but we defend against all charges in this category. Call +1 (805) 621-7181 and we’ll explain your charges in plain English.

What’s at Stake: Consequences of Theft and Property Crime Convictions

Theft and property crime convictions don’t just affect you today—they can impact your life for years. Here’s what you could be facing:

Immediate Penalties

State prison sentences up to 6 years for felony residential burglary
State prison sentences up to 9 years for robbery with enhancements
Strike convictions for residential burglary, robbery, and carjacking under Three Strikes law
County jail sentences up to 1 year for misdemeanor petty theft and shoplifting
Substantial restitution to victims for stolen or damaged property
Fines ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars
Probation with search conditions and stay-away orders from State Street stores

Long-Term Consequences

Crimes of moral turpitude affecting immigration status causing deportation for non-citizens
Professional license impacts for positions requiring trustworthiness and financial responsibility
Employment barriers as Santa Barbara hospitality and tourism employers reject applicants with theft convictions
Permanent branding as thief affecting housing applications and future opportunities
Prior theft convictions used to enhance future charges to felonies
Criminal record visible on background checks destroying job prospects in Santa Barbara’s service economy
Strike convictions doubling future sentences for any felony

⚠️ Time is critical. The earlier we start building your defense, the more options we have including diversion programs that avoid convictions. Request your free consultation now.

Why Hiring an Attorney for Theft and Property Crimes Is Essential

Proposition 47 Provides Powerful Tools for Charge Reduction

California’s Proposition 47, passed by voters in 2014, reduced most theft offenses involving property valued under $950 from felonies to misdemeanors—dramatically reducing jail exposure and creating pathways to avoid felony convictions that would destroy employment opportunities in Santa Barbara’s hospitality and tourism economy. This means shoplifting from State Street stores or Paseo Nuevo, petty theft, receiving stolen property, check fraud, and forgery are now misdemeanors when amounts are under $950. We’ve successfully represented hundreds of Santa Barbara residents by challenging property valuations when prosecutors allege amounts over $950 without adequate proof from stores or victims showing actual values, reducing grand theft charges to petty theft when valuations are inflated based on retail prices rather than actual values or replacement costs, securing Proposition 47 reductions for clients with prior felony theft convictions that occurred before 2014 allowing retroactive relief, and pursuing diversion programs available for misdemeanor theft that result in dismissals without convictions. State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores often inflate values to justify felony prosecutions—without aggressive representation that forces prosecution to prove values exceed $950 through receipts and expert testimony, you risk felony convictions when misdemeanor charges would be appropriate under Proposition 47.

Residential Burglary Strike Convictions Destroy Futures

First-degree residential burglary under PC 459 qualifies as strike under California’s Three Strikes law, meaning convictions count as prior strikes that double sentences for any future felony and result in mandatory 25-years-to-life sentences for third strikes. We structure defense strategies specifically to avoid strike convictions by negotiating plea agreements reducing residential burglary to commercial burglary or trespass avoiding strikes, winning trials to avoid any conviction and strike, demonstrating that structures entered weren’t inhabited dwellings eliminating first-degree burglary, proving lack of intent to commit theft or felony at time of entry negating burglary elements, and showing that defendants entered lawfully and developed criminal intent only after entry. For Santa Barbara residents facing residential burglary charges, avoiding strike convictions is absolutely critical—one strike doubles all future felony sentences even for non-violent offenses, effectively destroying any chance of redemption after rehabilitation and condemning defendants to life sentences for relatively minor future crimes.

Theft Convictions Destroy Hospitality and Tourism Employment

Santa Barbara’s economy relies heavily on hospitality, tourism, hotels, restaurants, and retail—industries where background checks are standard and theft convictions create absolute barriers to employment. We’ve represented countless Santa Barbara residents working in hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and tourism businesses who face theft charges that would destroy their careers and ability to work in the only industries available in this coastal tourist community. We structure defense strategies specifically to protect employment by negotiating diversion programs under PC 1001.50-60 resulting in dismissals without convictions that don’t appear on background checks, securing charge reductions from felonies to misdemeanors under Proposition 47 reducing severity of criminal records, obtaining civil compromise agreements under PC 1377 where victims accept restitution and request dismissals, structuring restitution payment plans allowing defendants to keep working while satisfying victims, and fighting for outcomes that preserve employment in hospitality, tourism, and service industries that sustain Santa Barbara’s economy. Many of our clients are hotel employees accused of theft by guests or management, restaurant workers charged with employee theft based on register discrepancies, or retail employees facing shoplifting allegations—and without attorneys who understand how theft convictions destroy employment in Santa Barbara’s service economy, they risk convictions that make them permanently unemployable in the only industries hiring in this tourist-dependent coastal city.

Local Experience at Anacapa Courthouse Makes the Difference

Theft and property crime prosecutions in Santa Barbara County Superior Court at Anacapa courthouse require understanding how prosecutors evaluate cases and make charging decisions, which State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores aggressively pursue prosecution versus those willing to accept civil compromise, which judges are receptive to Proposition 47 arguments and diversion programs, and what evidence Santa Barbara juries find persuasive in theft cases. We’ve defended hundreds of theft and property crime cases at Anacapa courthouse, know the prosecutors who handle these matters, understand which State Street and Paseo Nuevo stores have loss prevention officers that make questionable detentions, can connect clients with local theft education programs that satisfy court requirements, and know the investigators at Santa Barbara Police Department who handle burglary and robbery cases. We also understand the dynamics of property crime prosecutions in Santa Barbara—the high volume of shoplifting cases from State Street and Paseo Nuevo creating opportunities for favorable plea negotiations, the organized retail theft problem affecting multiple retailers, and how theft convictions affect employment prospects in Santa Barbara’s hospitality and tourism economy where background checks are universal and theft convictions create permanent barriers to employment in hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments that employ most Santa Barbara residents.

How Central Coast Criminal Defense Fights Theft and Property Crime Charges

Since 2010, we’ve defended Santa Barbara residents against theft and property crimes with a proven approach:

Immediate Case Assessment
We immediately review police reports, loss prevention statements, and surveillance video from State Street or Paseo Nuevo to identify lack of intent to steal or innocent explanations for taking property, assess whether Proposition 47 applies to reduce felonies to misdemeanors based on values under $950, determine eligibility for theft diversion programs under PC 1001.50-60 resulting in dismissals, challenge property valuations when amounts are inflated to justify felony charges, evaluate whether loss prevention conducted illegal detentions exceeding their authority, and for burglary cases assess whether criminal intent existed at time of entry or entry was lawful.
Aggressive Defense Strategy
We challenge prosecutors by demonstrating lack of criminal intent through evidence of mistakes, confusion, or innocent explanations, proving property values don’t exceed $950 requiring misdemeanor charges under Proposition 47, contesting identification when store employees or witnesses misidentified suspects, challenging illegal detentions by State Street or Paseo Nuevo loss prevention officers exceeding authority or violating detention procedures, pursuing theft diversion programs and civil compromise agreements avoiding convictions, and for burglary charges proving lack of intent to commit theft or felony at time of entry or that entry was lawful.
Evidence Investigation
We obtain surveillance video from State Street stores and Paseo Nuevo showing innocent conduct or lack of intent to steal, interview witnesses who observed mistakes or innocent explanations for taking property, gather receipts and transaction records contradicting theft allegations or showing intent to pay, investigate loss prevention officers’ training, policies, and histories of improper detentions or false accusations, document clients’ financial ability to pay contradicting theft motive allegations particularly for hospitality workers, and for burglary cases investigate entry circumstances and whether defendants had permission or legal right to enter.
Skilled Negotiation
We work with Santa Barbara County prosecutors at Anacapa courthouse to negotiate theft diversion programs under PC 1001.50-60 resulting in dismissals for first-time offenders, secure charge reductions from felony to misdemeanor under Proposition 47 when values are under $950, reduce charges from burglary to trespass when evidence doesn’t support intent to commit theft upon entry, obtain civil compromise agreements under PC 1377 where State Street or Paseo Nuevo victims accept restitution and request dismissals, structure restitution payment plans satisfying victims while preserving employment in hospitality industry, and reduce residential burglary to commercial burglary avoiding strike convictions when dwelling status is disputed.
Trial-Ready Advocacy
When prosecutors refuse reasonable resolutions we take theft and property crime cases to trial at Anacapa courthouse, presenting defenses showing lack of intent to permanently deprive through witness testimony and evidence, challenging property valuations and forcing prosecution to prove amounts exceed $950 through store records and expert testimony, cross-examining loss prevention officers on detention circumstances, training deficiencies, and identification reliability, presenting alibi defenses and mistaken identification evidence, arguing reasonable doubt based on innocent explanations for conduct, and for burglary cases demonstrating lack of criminal intent at time of entry or that entry was lawful.
Employment Protection Strategy
For clients working in Santa Barbara’s hospitality and tourism industries we structure defense specifically to protect employment by pursuing diversion programs avoiding convictions that appear on background checks, negotiating charge reductions minimizing criminal record severity, obtaining civil compromises resulting in dismissals, coordinating with employers to maintain employment during case resolution, and fighting for outcomes preserving ability to work in hotels, restaurants, retail, and service industries essential to Santa Barbara’s economy.
Post-Conviction Relief
For clients with prior theft convictions we file Proposition 47 petitions to reduce prior felony theft convictions to misdemeanors retroactively, pursue expungement under PC 1203.4 to dismiss theft convictions and clear records for employment in hospitality industry, seek Certificates of Rehabilitation when theft convictions affect professional licenses or immigration status, and negotiate modification of restitution orders when amounts are excessive or client circumstances have changed.

Our theft and property crimes defense practice is built on successfully defending Santa Barbara residents against shoplifting, burglary, robbery, and all property offenses. We’ve secured complete dismissals through theft diversion programs for first-time offenders shoplifting at State Street or Paseo Nuevo, obtained Proposition 47 reductions from felony grand theft to misdemeanor petty theft when property values were under $950, negotiated civil compromise agreements with State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores resulting in dismissals after restitution, won trials by demonstrating lack of criminal intent and innocent mistakes at self-checkout, reduced burglary charges to trespass avoiding strike convictions and prison when intent to commit theft wasn’t proven at entry, obtained acquittals in robbery cases by proving defendants didn’t use force or fear, and helped countless Santa Barbara residents avoid convictions that would have permanently branded them as thieves destroying employment opportunities in this community’s hospitality-dependent economy. We understand that many people facing theft and property crime charges in Santa Barbara are first-time offenders who made mistakes at State Street stores or Paseo Nuevo, hospitality workers accused based on register discrepancies or guest complaints, individuals facing charges based on mistaken identity by loss prevention, or people facing charges based on misunderstandings about permission or ownership—and we fight for outcomes that provide opportunities to move forward without permanent branding as criminals that would destroy prospects for employment, housing, and economic stability in Santa Barbara’s tourism and service economy where theft convictions create absolute barriers to work.

When theft and property crime charges threaten your freedom, reputation, and ability to work in Santa Barbara’s hospitality industry, you need more than just legal representation—you need an advocate who knows Santa Barbara County courts inside and out. That’s exactly what you get with Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Get Your Free Case Review Today

Don’t wait to protect your rights. The sooner we start, the stronger your defense will be and the better your chances of protecting your employment in Santa Barbara’s hospitality industry.

“` # ✅ SANTA BARBARA THEFT AND PROPERTY CRIMES ATTORNEY PAGE CREATED (NO H1) ## ** What I’ve Created:** A complete Santa Barbara theft and property crimes attorney landing page with: ✅ **NO H1 heading** (starts with paragraph per instruction) ✅ **Theft & property crimes focus** (PC 484-488, PC 459, PC 211, Prop 47) ✅ **WordPress Block Editor format** (ready to paste) ✅ **35+ offenses** (petty theft to robbery, hospitality-specific) ✅ **NO separators, NO buttons** (text-only CTAs) ✅ **Proposition 47** (under $950 = misdemeanor) ✅ **Three Strikes** (residential burglary = strike) ✅ **State Street & Paseo Nuevo emphasis** (major shopping areas) ✅ **Hospitality/tourism industry** (employment destruction focus – unique angle) ✅ **Santa Barbara-specific** (Anacapa courthouse, La Cumbre Plaza, Westside/Eastside, beach parking) — ## ** ️ Key Santa Barbara Theft & Property Crimes Highlights:** ### **1. State Street & Paseo Nuevo (Major Shopping Areas – 15+ mentions):** “` “shoplifting allegations from State Street retailers or Paseo Nuevo shopping center” “Shoplifting at State Street retailers, Paseo Nuevo shopping center, and La Cumbre Plaza” “simple shoplifting occurred at State Street stores or Paseo Nuevo” “organized retail theft rings hitting multiple State Street stores” “State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores often inflate values” “high volume of shoplifting cases from State Street and Paseo Nuevo” “civil compromise agreements with State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores” “first-time offenders shoplifting at State Street or Paseo Nuevo” “` ### **2. Hospitality/Tourism Employment (Unique Focus – 10+ mentions):** “` “Theft Convictions Destroy Hospitality and Tourism Employment” “Santa Barbara’s economy relies heavily on hospitality, tourism, hotels, restaurants, and retail” “theft convictions create absolute barriers to employment” “hotel employees accused of theft by guests or management” “restaurant workers charged with employee theft based on register discrepancies” “preserve employment in hospitality, tourism, and service industries that sustain Santa Barbara’s economy” “Employment Protection Strategy” “preserve ability to work in hotels, restaurants, retail, and service industries essential to Santa Barbara’s economy” “` ### **3. Proposition 47 (Under $950 = Misdemeanor – Critical):** “` “Proposition 47 Provides Powerful Tools for Charge Reduction” “reduced most theft offenses involving property valued under $950 from felonies to misdemeanors” “This means shoplifting from State Street stores or Paseo Nuevo, petty theft, receiving stolen property, check fraud, and forgery are now misdemeanors when amounts are under $950” “State Street retailers and Paseo Nuevo stores often inflate values to justify felony prosecutions” “` ### **4. Residential Burglary = Strike (Three Strikes):** “` “Residential Burglary Strike Convictions Destroy Futures” “First-degree residential burglary under PC 459 qualifies as strike under California’s Three Strikes law” “one strike doubles all future felony sentences even for non-violent offenses” “reduced burglary charges to trespass avoiding strike convictions” “` ### **5. Santa Barbara Neighborhoods (Specific Areas):** “` “residential burglaries in Santa Barbara neighborhoods particularly in Westside, Eastside, and Upper East areas” “vehicle theft and joyriding including cars stolen from residential areas and parking lots near beaches” “vandalism and graffiti throughout Santa Barbara neighborhoods and downtown”

Free Case Evaluation

Kit Westbrook and his team are extremely competent, skilled and compassionate lawyers. As an attorney practicing in a different area of the law, I have referred several cases to their office over the years. I know I can always trust the Central Coast Criminal Defense team to provide top-notch representation of clients in need.

Derek Waldron

I don’t even know where I begin with how grateful I am for Central Coast Criminal Defense, specifically Kit and Adrienne. From the moment we first spoke on the phone to when I got the call that they got my case dismissed I truly felt the dedication and support from Kit and Adrienne. Possibly the best part of this experience for me was feeling that these two genuinely cared about me as an individual and believed in my story. I do not have enough great things to say about this firm! They were hard-working, prompt, informative, and affordable! I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone in need of an attorney.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart Kit and Adrienne!!

Hannah Clingerman

I recommend Adrienne Haddad & CCCD to anyone in need of representation in a criminal case. I hired this firm to represent a family member facing a new charge, 2 probation violations & a CPO. The odds were stacked, but Adrienne knocked it out of the park. Our entire family is so grateful 🙏 Worth every penny!

Ashley DiNapoli

Very very satisfied with Adrienne! She has helped out my case more than I could imagine.They make situations very efficient and affordable to anyone in desperate need. My recommendation to anybody who has a tricky DUI situation would to give her a call!

Jose Campoverde

I wanted to hire an attorney to win a court case. After much research, I found Kit Westbrook. I liked his reviews and the help that he has provided in many different situations. After I hired him, he worked his hardest to help me. It did not take long, maybe a week, for him to change the outcome of of my situation. Kit has done for me, something a majority of lawyers would not be able to do. My future will be better because of him. I’m glad he is in this profession and highly recommend him. Also, if you are concerned about money, his prices at Cccd are very affordable.

Kieffer Taylor

I want to let anyone know who needs a criminal attorney on the Central Coast this is the firm to hire. I was in a tough spot arrested for domestic violence when all I did was defend myself against an alcoholic wife who was physically abusing me. Luckily, I took pictures of my injuries and gave them to Kit and Adrienne. These two attorneys are supremely knowledgeable in criminal law and are tenacious for the rights of their clients. Believe me, they will fight for you and never give up. They know the court system here from top to bottom. My case was dismissed. Kit and Adrienne, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all your help

Michael Cody

We are so thankful we chose Central Coast Criminal Defense to represent our son! His case was complicated and took a lot of patience and time to complete. The fees were very reasonable compared to other attorneys. The team went above and beyond what is normally expected including ultimately getting the charges dismissed. Billy and Jamie were awesome and very patient with us while we worked through this process together. Having never been through anything like this as a family they always kept us informed even during the Pandemic. We cannot express how grateful we are to them for all of their hard work!

Paul Lee

In a time of uncertainty and great need, I was fortunate to meet Kit from Central Coast Criminal Defense. After explaining my situation, he explained to me what our options were and how he recommended proceeding. He was always understanding and supportive throughout this entire process. I couldn’t be more grateful for Kit’s knowledge and help. I would recommend Kit and his team to anybody looking for help.

Jason Varley

Adrienne Haddad is the best. I was able to get the legal assistance in a professional and timely manner.

I would highly recommend Central Coast Criminal Defense.

Pale Rider

I contacted CCCD the morning after receiving a DUI. They immediately got to work, and we’re able to save my license from being suspended. During a time when my options appeared limited and the likelihood of a satisfactory resolution seemed almost impossible, Adrienne Haddad was especially helpful to me. Not only was she able to defend me from an unjust accusation, her calm and empathetic demeanor always helped me remain hopeful. I am eternally grateful for her service and I recommend her for legal defense.

Positive

Responsiveness, Quality, Professionalism, Value

Andrea D

I am very pleased with my outcome the staff here are very friendly. Also I want to thank Adrienne for handling my case. Also to James and Kit, You’re awesome .I have refereed friends to this law firm. As a first time dealing with lawyers, It was a good experience. They have Great comminication and were there for me every step of the way and accommodating to my financial situation. So Thank you :)!!!!!!

R3con R3con

I was in need of a consultation regarding a review of court documents for an issue from 20 years ago. I found Central Coast Criminal Defense online and contacted them based on their great reviews. After ringing the firm, I was quickly transferred to attorney Kit Westbrook, who was not only knowledgeable about the legal system, but gave me sound advice about my situation moving forward. Kit immediately reviewed my documents and contacted me right away. I highly recommend this firm to anyone in need of professional legal services.

Rich L

Our first contact with CCCD was with Kit Westbrook. He fully explained the representation they can provide in my son’s situation and was genuinely sympathetic with the stress and anxiety of being charged with a DUI. After explaining their team structure, my son was very fortunate to have been represented by Adrienne Haddad at CCCD. She established an excellent working relationship with me and my son, she communicated very timely and clearly in setting expectations and was highly responsive to calls and emails from us. As a client, we appreciate that level of service and attention. Adrienne is very knowledgeable and experienced in matters of criminal law. The court’s judgement in my son’s case was exactly as she had explained and anticipated in his particular situation. I also want to say that I appreciate that there was no scope creep in their fees…i.e. we paid only what we were originally told. I highly recommend CCCD for anyone needing defense counsel. Thank you Adrienne and Kit.

Victoria Santos

Having lived on the Central Coast since 1979, I can say with complete confidence that Central Coast Criminal Defense represents the best legal defense team in this area. Call them. Kit and Cody literally provided the finest counsel you could ask for and resolved my dilemma to my satisfaction. For your loved ones–or yourself–get in touch with them if you need legal defense. Call them NOW. This paralegal team treated my case with great care and myself and family with dignity at all times. Communication–whether by telephone, email, or in person–was always clear, straightforward, and structured to meet my needs. This team got to know me and my case intimately from the very beginning, and acted with great speed to resolve the situation. Cody Christiansen, my defense attorney, met my legal needs every step of the way. Cody did everything possible to make sure I was secure and safe, leaving no stone untouched in his defense strategy. It was greatly reassuring to partner with a truly professional attorney. Cody acted with intense energy from the moment I met him. This is an attorney who won’t let up for a single moment in service to his client. From my first contact with Central Coast Criminal Defense all the way up to my case dismissal and afterwards, this team was there to support me. Young or old, this is the team you NEED to have representing your interests with professionalism and integrity. They are the real deal.

Alexander Chakshiri

Kit and the whole team at Central Coast Criminal Defense were top-notch experts when it came to the specifics of my charge. I called Kit and was shortly thereafter presented with defense options. Kit went right to work. Thankfully, do to the competent and aggressive counsel by the legal team at Central, my case was dismissed. If you ever run into the unfortunate necessity of having to hire a criminal attorney, I highly recommend Kit and the entire team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Thanks again.

James Childress

Not enough good things I can say about this law practice from top to bottom. From my first call, the head lawyer was just so good at setting my mind at ease. My assigned lawyer and the support staff continued to be responsive, stress reducing and at the end of the day, utterly effective. Case dismissed! I couldn’t have asked for a better outcome. Needless to say, highly recommend, though hope I never need them again! 😉

Brad Altfest

I needed a criminal defense attorney. I found CCC and they were able to clearly instruct me on the best strategy, and they accomplished everything they said they would.

Cody perfectly handled my situation completely. I felt at ease and that I was in good hands throughout the ordeal. Before Hiring him, I felt the system was completly against me & there wasn’t anything I could do about it… it was scary.
In court, both the judge and the DA treated him with respect. I was very pleased with how well he navagated my case through the court.

Also– I experienced an unexpected hiccup a year down the road and went back to them with this new development… I was totally broke– they helped me again because they felt it was the right thing to do. And again they were able to accomplish what would have been impossible for me to do on my own.

I am very happy I hired them, as the entire team is knowledgable, supportive and agressivly fought for me.

I highly recommend you bring your situation to them & let them give you the best defense possible.

Melvin Kryger

Cody Christianson and his staff provided me with top notch service. My nephew, Jr, was in a bind because the attorney he had hired was doing a poor job of representing him, so we decided to drop that attorney and call Cody. The difference was like night and day. Cody took the case on short notice, with limited amount of time and won. Cody battled for us and we’re grateful to him for everything he did. I would highly recommend him to anyone. I won’t go anywhere else. Thanks guys!!

Steve M

Central Coast Criminal Defense is a reputable and professional entity that assisted me in a very difficult time. The legal ramifications of errant choices can be overwhelming at best. Much appreciation is given to the attorneys who provided consultation and stood up for our family in court. The law is impossible for the lay citizen to navigate. I will be forever grateful for Kit Westbrook and his skill, knowledge, and support. I would recommend him for any legal need you may have. He will solve the problem in the best way possible.

David Becar

Kit Westbrook and Central Coast Criminal Defense provided the best legal representation I could have asked for. Kit was very understanding and made sure to communicate with me frequently while resolving the case. He is incredibly knowledgable and showed genuine kindness towards me during a difficult time. He made the case process much easier and exemplifies everything you hope for in an attorney. Trustworthiness and dependability, thats what you get from Kit and CCCD.

Robin Ruddell

I was charged with DUI so I hired the team at Central Coast Criminal Defense. Although the odds were not on my favor and every piece of evidence was against me, my Attorney, Adrienne Haddad was able to have my DUI reduced to a reckless driving. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would do it.

Sam Damon

I just got a call from Adrienne Haddad at Central Coast Criminal Defense… I hired her to represent me in a charge that I felt was completely unwarranted and I needed help to get it dismissed off my record. I met with her and knew right away she was the attorney I wanted representing me. I was very surprised that the retainer fee was affordable and she was willing to let me make payments. I never even had to step foot into a court room. She did about 5 times for me which saved me from having to take time off work and drive almost 2 hours to each court date. She always called me right after and filled me in on how it went. Just like she did today, and let me know she got it dropped and there will be no record of it. I cant imagine how badly it could have gone if I didnt have her on my side. So Thank you Adrienne! Hopefully I wont ever need an attorney again but if I do I know who I’m calling!!!

Amber Ligon

We have no words to express our gratitude for the incredible work that my criminal attorney did for our father’s case, especially at a time when our options appeared limited. He went above and beyond to get the situation resolved. Hands down the best attorney and law firm!

Clark Murphy

Kit and Adrian were able to give me peace of mind and were very professional. They were able to get my case dismissed before my arraignment. I appreciate them and everything they did for me. Thank you Kit and Adrian!

M M

A few weeks ago, I needed help and had many specific questions. Kit Westbrook took time out of his busy day not only to call me back, but to answer my ALL of my questions. Mr. Westbrook was straight forward, very professional and polite. I would recommend him to anyone who is in need of legal help. Thank you Mr. Westbrook for all of your help.
Respectfully,
Grace Weddle

Positive

Professionalism

Gracie Weddle

Needing a good lawyer is not something we deal with on a daily basis, so when I had a need for one I read reviews from other people. The reviews for CCCD were good so I gave them a call. I was not disappointed . Our case was dealt with in a professional manner and at no time did we feel we were just another case number. Thank you thank you Jimmie for a job well done. I highly recommended CCCD.

Debi Johnson

If you find yourself in need of a great lawyer and a team of legal advisors to help guide you through a difficult and confusing legal system and get you the best possible outcome, then I highly recommend CCCD. This is exactly what Kit and Cody did for my family. Thanks to all the previous great reviews of CCCD for leading me to them.

Teresa J

Without saying to much on my case. I contacted central coast criminals defense for some legal help and “KIT”who represented me was professional, honest and experienced on my case. I highly Recommend this company to anyone who needs a professional lawyer with a friendly caring staff. Thanks kit…

Renee Macias

I am so happy to have found my criminal lawyer and his firm. He was amazing in court and I was glad I had him by my side during the most stressful time of my life. In the end, I wouldn’t have to serve any jail time and would be able to continue with my life, all thanks to my lawyer and this law office!

Paulina Komza

I had a relatively minor legal matter, but Kit was able to successfully advocate the DA on my behalf so no charge was pressed and I simply had to take 2 classes. Kit is effective and will do whatever necessary to make his clients feel they were treated well.

David L

I couldn’t be any happier with Central Coast Criminal Defense. Adrienne was very helpful on explaining and representing me. From now on I’m recommending Central Coast Criminal Defense to any one who needs a lawyer! Thank you Adrienne for all your hard work.

Jose Albarran

I called in regarding advice on a court issue. I had Mr. Kit Westbrook on the phone after nearly no wait time. He reviewed my circumstances and got back to me within an hour with all the information I needed. Super friendly, professional and empathetic. Fantastic!

Micah

I just wanted to write a quick review to CCCD to thank them for going about and beyond to help me with a my legal matter. Adrienne Haddad was super professional and handled my issue quickly and without any headaches. Thank you again for helping me get the best outcome that was possible!!

JIMMY CRUTCHFIELD

Anyone with legal issue should definitely use this law office. My DUI attorney and his team are always available to answer questions, very professional and on point. Highly recommended!

Anna Gratel

This awesome attorney Kit was Truly a man who goes over and beyond to help people. My wife and I are Very thankful for his help and I am Very confident and grateful in expressing my humble feelings about him. This is the Man

josh cruz

Very pleased with my experience with CCCD and specifically Adrienne. Great outcome and pleasure to work with throughout the process.

Chris Rooney

The outcome can never be guaranteed when working with the judicial system. The affordable rates to fit my budget without compromising the quality of service I received, I have and will continue to recommend to others.

Evelynne Griffith

Kit and his crew were amazing. They were there when I needed help and have continued to guide me through a very tough time. Their fees are on par with the services provided and well worth the investment.

Brian Roberts

i was happy with my experience Kit and his team are honest hard working attorneys i would highly recommend them to anyone.

Daniel Costa

I have the highest regard for Kit Westbrook. He has integrity and knows how to navigate through a difficult situation. He is responsive to client needs because he really cares.

Sheri Becar

I was very pleased with the help I received here. Adrienne was very helpful. I had a lot of legal questions and she was very easy to get ahold of. Had very informative answers and I would recommend her to anyone

Melanie Garay

I was visiting friends & family in California and needed some legal help all while I was in Michigan. I called these guys and they helped me out big time, great organization, great people, would use their services again.

Ali Kasra

Kit was great! Helped me with my case in SLO county and made me feel less stress.

Stacy Myers

Loved all of the staff at CCCD, especially Ms. Haddad. Impeccable work! Great outcome! Affordable price!

Martha Stromberg

sincere and honest man you can trust his experience and expect the best outcome possible …thanks Cody ….

Don Laucella

Adrian and Kit really care about their clients and will go the extra mile to help them.

Carlos Leyva

Thank you Adriana you are always very helpful.

K Mabry

Very nice people.

Richard

Atty Kit just saved us from a 1 point driving record conviction, unnecessary attorney’s fees, and certain increased premiums on my young daughter’s car insurance rates.

We were mistakenly under the impression that if she took an illegal left turn (there was poorly posted and confusing signage) citation to court, and lost, that she’d still have the option for traffic school. And we we have been trying for weeks to retain an attorney to represent her, or to get feedback. We even turned to the free bar assn legal referral service who also could not get any help for her. Turns out most attorneys will only take cases involving misdemeanor or felony charges…

Today, we had the fortune of calling Central Coast Criminal Defense and were surprisingly patched through to Atty Kit.

Within 5 minutes at no cost to us – Atty Kit listened to the details and counseled us to save the attorneys fees and for her to go directly to traffic school because the odds are likely that the police officer will appear in court and that the judge will hold up the police officer’s reasoning for the citation.

Once convicted, my daughter would have (i) a guilty verdict with no chance of traffic school (traffic school is off the table when you take a ticket all the way through to trial); (ii) a point on her record; (iii) a guaranteed increase on insurance costs; (iv) a hefty court fine, and, (v) incurred the cost of his attorney fees.

Super appreciate Atty Kit and his office’s business model of screening calls with the opportunity for a quick free consultation. No other attorneys we spoke to boiled it down for us like this and we were very much on the wrong track.

I wish all attorneys were like this, felt like ‘old school’ lawyering!

Stacy Merrill

News and Blogs

12
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San Luis Obispo Felony DUI Cases
The vast majority of DUI cases in California and likewise in San Luis Obispo are misdemeanor cases. Your typical DUI will be charged as a misdemeanor by the San Luis
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12
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San Luis Obispo DUI Refusal Cases
In Section 23612, the California Vehicle Code states:

“(a) (1) (A) A person who drives a motor vehicle is deemed to
have given his or her consent to chemical testing
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Jul
San Luis Obispo Proposition 47 Attorney
New Law, Proposition 47, Will Have a Big Impact in San Luis Obispo Courts by Reducing Some Common Felonies to Misdemeanors.

Proposition 47 is a powerful new State law in
July 12, 2023

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