A conviction for even a seemingly minor theft crime can carry stiff criminal penalties and seriously harm your future. Potential employers are likely to view a robbery conviction as a sign of dishonesty and discard your job application without even giving you an opportunity to explain.
At Largey Law, we focus our experience and trial skills on the defense of clients throughout Central Florida. Our criminal offense attorneys are former public defenders who share the goal of providing zealous representation to all people accused of a crime. A Mount Dora theft lawyer from our team could candidly advise you whether a plea or trial is in your best interest.
Theft Offenses in Florida
The degree of a robbery charge is based primarily on the value of the property allegedly stolen. The following is a list of the criminal charges that correspond to various ranges of property value:
- $100,000 or more — first-degree felony grand theft
- $20,000 to $100,000 — second-degree felony grand theft
- $300 to $20,000 — third-degree felony grand theft
- $100 to $300 — first-degree misdemeanor petit theft
- Less than $100 — second-degree misdemeanor petit theft
Florida law elevates the charge if the alleged offense involves certain types of property, such as emergency medical or law enforcement equipment. If someone is unsure about the degree of theft charge that they are facing, a seasoned theft lawyer in Mount Dora could assess the situation and determine the subsequent next steps.
What is the Difference Between Theft and Burglary?
Under Florida law, the state must prove the following to win a burglary conviction:
- You entered a dwelling, a structure or conveyance with the intent to commit a crime, or
- You entered a dwelling structure or conveyance lawfully but remained there:
- Surreptitiously, with the intent to commit a crime
- After permission to remain there was withdrawn, with the intent to commit a crime, or
- To commit or attempt to commit a forcible felony
Typically, burglary is charged as a third- or second-degree felony. However, the charge may be elevated to a first-degree felony if certain factors exist, such as the defendant commits an assault or battery during the commission of the burglary or carries a weapon. A knowledgeable lawyer in the Mount Dora area could determine what type of theft a person is accused of and build a strategic defense on their behalf.
What is Robbery?
Robbery is described under the Florida Statutes as:
- Taking money or other property
- From the person or custody of another
- With intent to either permanently or temporarily deprive the person of the money or property, and
- In the course of the taking, the defendant used force, violence, assault or fear
If the defendant did not have a firearm or other weapon during the robbery, it is a second-degree felony. The presence of a gun or other weapon increases the charge to a first-degree felony punishable by life in prison, as a talented theft lawyer in Mount Dora could explain.
Speak With a Mount Dora Theft Attorney for Guidance
To challenge theft, shoplifting or burglary charges, do not hesitate to reach out to our compassionate and hardworking legal representatives. Your initial consultation is free, and we accommodate your schedule by making after-hours appointments. We maintain offices in Tavares, Inverness and Clermont, and can also make home and jail visits. Se habla español.
