A theft charge can result in negative consequences for the rest of your life. You need The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., to be your legal advocate.
Theft Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale
According to Florida law, “a person commits theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to use, the property of another person.”
Taking someone’s property unlawfully is punishable by jail time and fines. Such an offense can remain on your record permanently. However, there are circumstances that may indicate you are not guilty or might be guilty of a lesser offense. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights and help you avoid a harsher sentence. Look no further than The Law Offices of R. David Williams, P.A., and get the assistance of a skilled Fort Lauderdale theft lawyer.
Ways a Person May Commit Theft
According to Florida statute, theft occurs under various conditions. These can include the following:
- Depriving the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property
- Appropriate the property to his or her own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the property
- Stealing property that values at or more than $100,000
Get the right help on your side if you face a theft charge. Schedule a free consultation with our Fort Lauderdale theft lawyer today.
Theft Crimes: Shoplifting
One of the most common types of theft crimes is shoplifting. This is also known as retail theft. It can be a misdemeanor or a felony, and the charge will depend on the value of the stolen property.
For example, if you steal less than $100, the charge will be second-degree petit theft. This can result in up to 60 days in jail and a fine of $500. However, if you steal more than $750 worth of property, the charge will be first-degree petit theft. This carries up to a year in jail and a fine of $1,000.
If you have previous theft convictions, the charge will become a felony, which could potentially result in a five-year prison term, and fines up to $5,000.
Stealing From Older Victims
Florida law penalizes offenders more severely if the theft is committed against older people. If you attempt to steal a piece of property valued at $1,000 or more from someone 65 or older, you could spend time in jail and pay a fine. Plus, restitution damages could require the completion of at least 500 hours of community service work.
If you steal property from a person who is 65 or older, and the value of the theft exceeds $50,000, you will be charged with a first-degree felony. This comes with a $10,000 fine and a maximum prison penalty of 30 years. If the value of the property you steal is between $10,000 and $50,000, the charge will be a second-degree felony. This carries punishments of up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
If you face such charges, call us to schedule a free consultation and speak with our experienced Fort Lauderdale theft lawyer.