Experienced Theft Defense Attorneys in Gainesville, FL
Whether you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor, you need to seek advice from an experienced theft defense attorney. No matter the circumstances, a theft conviction will follow you for the rest of your life. When facing these charges in Florida, you need to consult with a Gainesville robbery defense lawyer.
Our Florida theft attorney will review the charges and evidence in the case. We can craft a defense for your legal battle. If you have been offered a plea deal, it might seem like a good idea. However, many pleas require you to plead guilty, which can leave you with a criminal record.
You need to work with the professional legal team at Smith & Eulo Law Firm.
The Definition of Theft in Gainesville, FL
Within Florida’s criminal statutes, theft is a broad term. Due to the offender’s prior criminal history and the value of the property, penalties vary from case to case. The Gainesville theft lawyers at Smith & Eulo Law Offices are available to discuss the case with you.
- Petit Theft
- Grand Theft
- Shoplifting Charges
- Employee Theft
- Selling Stolen Property
- Identity Theft Charges
- Failure to Redeliver Hired Vehicle
- Credit Card Fraud or Theft
Theft Can Result in Long-Term Issues
Possible Theft Defenses in Gainesville, FL
- The theft occurred as the defendant was under the influence of alcohol
- A psychological condition caused an impulse to steal
- The accusation was a mistake as the defendant took the item in error
- The offender did not know the item was in their possession
- The defendant thought he or she had permission to take the item
- The offender believes they were the rightful owner of the item
Explanation of Petit Theft
- Third degree: This type of theft involves stolen property with a value of less than $100. When convicted, the defendant can face a maximum fine of $500 and 60 days in jail or prison.
- Second degree: A crime is classified as second-degree petit theft if the stolen property’s value ranges from $100 to $750. It is still a misdemeanor with penalties of one year of incarceration and fines up to $1,000.
- First degree: If the defendant has a criminal theft history, the offense can be upgraded to a first-degree misdemeanor charge. After two prior theft convictions, a misdemeanor charge becomes a third-degree felony. The defendant faces five years imprisonment and a $5,000 maximum fine with this charge.
Understanding Grand Theft
- Third degree: If the stolen property was worth between $750 to $1,000, this crime is a third-degree felony. The punishment includes a $5,000 fine and five years of imprisonment
- Second degree: Stealing property with a value between $5,000 and $10,000 is considered second-degree grand theft. Some of the typical penalties include a fine of up to $10,000 and 4 years of prison time
- First degree: The most severe charge is first-degree grand theft. If the property was worth more than $100,000, the courts might sentence the offender to 30 years in prison with a maximum fine of up to $10,000
If a vehicle was used to commit the theft, the charge elevates to the first degree. Charges are enhanced to a first-degree felony if the defendant damages $1,000 worth of property. Several factors determine the stolen property’s value, such as resale and market prices. Along with that, targeting a senior aged 65 or older is a severe crime with stiffer penalties.
Consult With Our Theft Defense Lawyer in Gainesville Today
A conviction of theft is more than paying a fine and losing your freedom. You can experience difficulties in gaining employment, renting a home, and keeping custody of your children. With a dismissed charge, you can keep your record clean from any criminal offenses. Our experienced Gainesville burglary lawyers at Smith & Eulo Law Firm may be able to help.
If you or your loved one find themselves in a situation where you are being accused of theft? Call us right away at 904-714-4405 to speak with a qualified legal professional or fill out the contact form on this page. We’re available 24/7, we offer free initial consultation and payment plans . In addition to our Gainesville office, we have offices in the following cities across the state of Florida:
*Additional Orlando Florida & Orange County Legal Resources
