Theft is a crime that is taken seriously in Florida. If you are facing allegations of taking something that was not yours, no matter how big or small, please call a Fort Pierce theft lawyer at The Law Offices of Robert David Malove. The team of experienced criminal defense attorneys at our firm has years of experience defending misdemeanor offenses and serious felonies, and we could be there to help ensure that you are treated fairly.
What Are The Different Types of Theft?
Broadly speaking, theft under Florida law means obtaining the property of someone else without permission or with the purpose of depriving that person of their property. Property, in this context, really means anything from small goods to large items like vehicles, as well as cash. The question is the value of the stolen property, because this is used to determine whether the charge is petit or grand theft.
Petit is French for “small” or “little,” so it generally applies to property valued less than $750; like shoplifting, taking personal items like a cell phone, or leaving a restaurant without paying.
Grand theft is the opposite, and applies when the goods are more than $750, so things like expensive jewelry, or large quantities of cash. However, there are some instances that could qualify for grand theft regardless of the value. The best example is stealing a motor vehicle, which is called grand theft auto.
Robbery and Burglary
There are related crimes such as burglary and robbery, where theft is the underlying action but are separate charges. In these circumstances, the aggravating factors involved, namely violence or threats, increase the severity of the crimes.
No matter what the charge is, when someone is accused of stealing in Fort Pierce, the best thing to do is get in touch with a theft attorney. Even if the value is small, police take these situations very seriously, so it is essential to have legal representation.
Potential Penalties and Defenses for Theft
Each charge carries a different punishment of fines, time in jail, or a combination of both. This depends on whether it is petit or grand theft, and further whether it is a misdemeanor or felony.
Shoplifting less than $100 worth of merchandise is a second-degree misdemeanor that comes with up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine. If the property is between $100 and $750, the charge is elevated to a first-degree misdemeanor, which has a maximum of 12 months jailtime and a $1,000 fine. Anything above $750 could bring a third-degree felony charge, which could result in five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
Thankfully, all is not lost just because charges have been filed. Whether it is a lack of intent, insufficient evidence, or showing rightful ownership of the allegedly stolen property, a skilled attorney in Fort Pierce could help put up a defense for theft charges.
Have A Theft Attorney Represent Your Rights in the Fort Pierce Courts
If you have been accused of stealing, contact The Law Offices of Robert David Malove immediately. An experienced Fort Pierce theft lawyer from our firm could get to work evaluating your situation and your options going forward.
Remember that you always have the right to present a defense against the allegations. Call The Law Offices of Robert David Malove to get started building yours.