West Palm Beach Theft Attorneys

What Is the Potential Impact of a Theft Conviction?

A theft conviction can have far-reaching consequences beyond fines and potential jail time:

• Employment challenges: Many employers are reluctant to hire individuals with theft convictions.
• Housing difficulties: Landlords often conduct background checks and may deny housing to those with theft records.
• Professional licenses: Certain professions may revoke or deny licenses based on theft convictions.
• Immigration issues: Non-citizens may face deportation or inadmissibility due to theft convictions.
• Educational opportunities: Some colleges and universities consider criminal records in admissions decisions.
• Personal relationships: The stigma of a theft conviction can strain personal and professional relationships.

Don't let a theft charge derail your future. Our West Palm Beach theft attorneys will fight relentlessly to protect your rights and your reputation.

Understanding Florida Theft Laws

Defining Theft in Florida

Under Florida Statute §812.014, theft occurs when a person knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or use, the property of another with intent to:

• Deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property.
• Appropriate the property to their own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property.

This broad definition covers a wide range of actions, from shoplifting to complex financial fraud. It's important to note that even temporary deprivation of property can constitute theft under Florida law.

Theft Classifications and Penalties

The severity of theft charges, incarceration lengths, and fines in Florida depend primarily on the value of the stolen property:

• Second-degree petit theft (2nd degree misdemeanor)
  
  • Property valued at less than $100
  • Up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine
• First-degree petit theft (1st degree misdemeanor)
  
  • Property valued between $100 and $750
  • Up to 1 year in jail and a $1,000 fine
• Third-degree grand theft (3rd degree felony)
  
  • Property valued between $750 and $20,000
  • Up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine
• Second-degree grand theft (2nd degree felony)
  
  • Property valued between $20,000 and $100,000
  • Up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
• First-degree grand theft (1st degree felony)
  
  • Property valued at $100,000 or more
  • Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine

It's essential to note that certain items, such as firearms, wills, motor vehicles, or controlled substances, can elevate charges regardless of value. Additionally, Florida Statute §812.0155 allows for the suspension of a defendant's driver's license as a penalty for certain theft convictions.

Statutes of Limitations

Understanding the statute of limitations is crucial in theft cases. In Florida, the time limit for bringing charges varies based on the severity of the offense:

• Misdemeanor theft: 2 years from the date of the alleged offense
• Third-degree felony theft: 3 years
• Second-degree felony theft: 3 years
• First-degree felony theft: 4 years

However, it's important to note that under Florida Statute §812.035(10), the statute of limitations can be extended in cases involving ongoing schemes or conspiracies. Our experienced theft defense attorneys will carefully examine the timeline of your case to ensure charges are brought within the legal limits.

Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders

Florida law imposes harsher penalties on repeat offenders. Under Florida Statute §812.014(3), a third or subsequent petit theft conviction can be charged as a third-degree felony, regardless of the property's value. This underscores the importance of combating every theft charge vigorously, even seemingly minor ones.