Under Florida law, you can face theft charges if accused of knowingly taking someone else’s property without their permission. It is important to note that you can face theft charges even if you intended to return the property after using it.
Depending on the circumstance of the case, you can face charges for petit or grand theft. Additionally, both petit and grand theft include different categories.
Misdemeanor and felony theft charges carry serious consequences, so it is important to deal with your case head-on. Our West Palm Beach theft defense lawyer has more than 34 years of experience with these types of cases. Reach out to discuss the circumstances surrounding your arrest.
Depending on the severity of the theft charge, the penalties vary. However, you can face:
You will also have a theft charge on your criminal record if convicted. Contact a theft lawyer in West Palm Beach to discuss ways to defend yourself from these charges.
Even though petit theft is a misdemeanor, possible penalties include jail time, probation, and fines. Plus, a theft conviction will stay on your criminal record for life, causing potential employers and others to make snap judgments about your honesty and integrity.
You can protect your rights by working with a West Palm Beach theft defense attorney. After reviewing the facts of the case, your attorney can explore possible defenses for you.
As the value of the property increases, so does the charge of grand theft itself. With penalties that include substantial prison sentences and hefty fines, you need the help of an experienced criminal defense lawyer to help guide you through the criminal justice system. So contact a West Palm Beach theft lawyer today to review your legal options with you.
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Ronald S. Chapman has practiced criminal defense in Florida state and federal courts since 1990, handling DUI cases in Palm Beach County involving first arrests, repeat offenses, injury, and property damage. Over the years, his case reviews have focused closely on testing records, officer reports, and the events leading to the arrest.
That experience can be really important when choosing a DUI defense lawyer, since the attorney you work with may affect how your license issues, criminal case, and defense strategy are addressed.
Ron Chapman is a solo criminal defense practitioner with more than 36 years of experience and 500+ jury trials and hearings. His clients work directly with him throughout their criminal defense matters.
When you choose Ronald S. Chapman, P.A., you work directly with the attorney handling your criminal defense matter. Early representation can be considered before formal charges are filed, if appropriate. If you are facing criminal charges or an investigation in West Palm Beach or Palm Beach County, Contact Ronald S. Chapman, P.A. for a meeting to discuss your situation and your options.
If convicted, the judge can order you to pay restitution. The amount will be based on the property’s fair market value. This is not the same as the amount spent to replace the stolen item. Instead, the court considers the original cost, usage, condition, and percentage of deprecation. It is important to have representation when determining restitution, so contact a theft defense lawyer in West Palm Beach for assistance.
Evidence tends to erode and disappear as time passes, making it harder to defend yourself from charges. Thus, Florida has a statute of limitations for the crime of theft, meaning the state must file charges within a certain period of time. If you think you are under investigation but have yet to be charged, consult with a criminal defense lawyer today to begin working on your case.
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You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.
