If two or more people agree to commit a crime and take a step towards carrying out the crime, they can be charged with criminal conspiracy. Conspiracy charges can apply to any crime prohibited by law, such as drug offenses, theft, fraud or even murder.
In addition, a conspiracy charge does not require the commission of the crime or an attempt to do so. The mere agreement or plan to commit a crime is sufficient to be charged with conspiracy. Similarly, you can be charged with conspiracy even if you did not directly participate in committing the actual crime.
The particulars of your offense matter
The penalties for conspiracy charges in California vary depending on the severity of the crime in question. For instance, if you are charged with conspiracy to commit a felony, you will be sentenced as if you directly committed the felony. The jury or court that found you guilty will determine the degree of felony you conspired to commit.
Additionally, if your conspiracy charges involve two or more felonies with different sentences, you will receive the penalty for the felony with the most severe punishment.
Whether you will be charged with a conspiracy to commit a misdemeanor or felony depends on the facts of your case, such as the seriousness of the crime and your level of involvement, among others.
Are you facing a conspiracy charge in California?
If you are charged with conspiracy, it is crucial to seek legal counsel and representation as soon as possible. The stakes are very high, and you cannot risk sitting back and letting your case run its course.
The most you can do under the circumstances is mount a solid defense against your charges to increase the odds of a desirable verdict.
