When you are charged with theft, you are being accused of a crime that involves unlawfully taking the property of another person. Having this crime on your record can jeopardize both your business and personal reputation, and can make it difficult to get the job you want, or even to get a professional license in the future. That’s why it’s important to learn how a Florida theft crimes defense lawyer will protect your rights. An experienced theft crimes defense lawyer understands the laws related to theft, and can build an effective defense for your case.
Types of Theft
There are different types of theft that are generally classified according to the value of the property or money taken. Petty theft is usually a misdemeanor and involves taking property whose worth is up to $299. If the value of the property taken is greater than $300, the crime is grand theft. Grand theft is classified in degrees, with first degree grand theft being the most serious. For first degree grand theft, the property must be worth more than $100,000. Carjacking, or taking the vehicle of another by force, is a first degree felony with severe penalties, especially if a weapon is used. Identity theft is another form of theft that has become popular and often involves computers.
Penalties for Theft
The penalties for theft become greater in severity with increasing value of the property stolen. For theft crimes that are misdemeanors, they can involve a few months in jail and fines up to $1000. For theft crimes that are felonies, they can involve many years in prison and fines of thousands of dollars. Perpetrators may also be required to pay restitution to compensate victims for their financial losses.
Call to Schedule a Free Consultation With a Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer in Florida Today
If you’ve been charged with a theft crime, call to schedule a free consultation with a theft crimes defense lawyer in Florida today. An experienced theft crimes defense lawyer like one of the legal professionals from the law firm of Finnell, McGuinness, Nezami & Andux, P.A. will understand the law related to theft crimes and can prepare the best possible defense for your case. These cases may need complex strategies to win them, and you need to contact a theft defense lawyer today if you are in any way charged with this type of crime. Contact our Jacksonville, Florida office at 904-717-7747 and let us give you legal guidance you can trust.