An arrest on suspicion of theft is stressful and disruptive. You may worry about court dates, fines, and how a criminal record will harm your job prospects or housing. A Marathon theft lawyer could help by explaining the legal process and identifying possible defenses that could put pressure on the prosecution. Speaking with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible after your arrest could preserve your legal options and reduce the risk of lasting consequences. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Florida’s theft statutes cover a wide range of situations, and theft charges depend on the value of the item or items taken. Taking property worth less than $750 is typically classified as petit theft, with first-degree petit theft applying when the value of the stolen items is between $100 and $750. Theft of property worth $750 or more constitutes grand theft and is prosecuted as a felony, categorized into degrees based on the value and, in some cases, the type of property stolen.
Florida Statutes § 775.082 outlines jail and prison penalties for the different degrees of grand theft, and Fla. Stat. § 775.083 describes fine limits. Conviction for a first-degree misdemeanor could result in up to one year in county jail and a fine of up to $1,000. Third-degree felonies carry up to five years in prison and up to $5,000 in fines, while second-degree felonies carry up to 15 years and a maximum of $10,000 in fines. Finally, first-degree felonies carry a sentence of up to 30 years in prison. A Marathon attorney could help explain the theft charges against you and their potential consequences during a consultation.
A strong defense strategy begins with understanding how police officers learned about the property and the reasons they stopped or detained you. Your lawyer could evaluate whether reasonable suspicion and probable cause were present and review how any items were seized. If Marathon officers searched your vehicle, home, or person without a valid warrant or a recognized exception, your theft attorney could challenge the evidence and work to get it excluded from your case.
It is essential to carefully examine the chain of custody records to confirm that each item seized by police was properly tested and logged. In addition, the prosecution must establish a connection between an item and the accused. In cases of shared homes or vehicles, proof of ownership and control can become unclear, raising questions about evidence.
When valuation influences the severity of the charge, your attorney could contest how the prosecution determined fair market value and whether evidence of repairs or depreciation undermines the claimed amount.
Police officers typically move quickly to gather witness statements and video evidence when investigating cases of theft. A notice to appear or an arrest warrant enacts deadlines that affect your legal options, and your next actions matter.
Do not wait for things to get worse, and do not go to court alone. Securing legal counsel and representation early could help you avoid making common mistakes when speaking to law enforcement, protect your rights, and preserve records that affect the value of the allegedly stolen item.
We are here to help. A dedicated Marathon theft lawyer from Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC could review your arrest, challenge unlawful searches, and test the prosecution’s argument. We listen to your concerns and make communication easy. Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation and begin building your defense.
