A theft conviction could affect your life long after your case has closed. Florida treats theft offenses as crimes of dishonesty, and sentencing may damage your reputation, restrict job opportunities, and jeopardize your ability to obtain professional licenses. In addition to personal consequences, charges might result in jail time and significant fines.
A Key Largo theft lawyer from Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC could review the prosecution’s evidence, scrutinize how the allegedly stolen property was valued, and build a strong defense aimed at reducing or possibly dismissing the charges against you, helping you move forward with confidence. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with a seasoned criminal defense attorney.
Florida law defines theft as knowingly obtaining or using, or attempting to obtain or use, another person’s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of it. Theft covers price-tag switching, keeping lost items without making an effort to return them, and unauthorized use of someone else’s belongings.
The value of the stolen property defines the charge. Property worth less than $750 is considered petit theft, while property valued above $750 constitutes grand theft, classified in third, second, or first degree as values rise. Additional circumstances, such as prior convictions, the use of force, or theft from an elderly individual, heighten penalties. Because theft charges in Key Largo vary, an accurate valuation of the property and a close examination of the facts by an experienced attorney are the first steps in building an effective defense.
A misdemeanor conviction may lead to county jail time, probation supervision, restitution, and court-ordered classes. Penalties increase with the property value and aggravating factors. For example, third-degree grand theft can result in up to five years in state prison, second-degree up to fifteen years, and first-degree up to thirty years.
Fines rise with each tier, and repeat offenders risk harsher terms under the state’s habitual offender laws. Beyond immediate sentencing, a theft conviction will place a crime of dishonesty on your criminal record, visible to employers, landlords, and licensing boards. Non-citizens might also face challenges related to immigration.
A theft conviction could have enduring consequences on various facets of your life. Because of this, working with an experienced lawyer in Key Largo is important to pursue reduced theft charges, diversion, or alternative sentencing.
A theft defense attorney could review aspects of your Key Largo arrest, evaluate the chain of custody for evidence, and examine whether the prosecution could prove intent, value, and identity beyond a reasonable doubt. Early representation increases your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome. Seasoned lawyers use defense strategies such as:
Applying these defense strategies could reduce penalties and protect your future.
After being charged with theft, prompt action could allow your Key West theft lawyer to gather surveillance footage before it is overwritten, interview witnesses while memories remain fresh, secure independent appraisals that challenge inflated valuations, and negotiate release conditions that protect your freedom while your case proceeds. If you have been arrested or charged with theft, contact us at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC for a confidential consultation.
