Theft Defense Attorney in Orlando
Representing Those Charged With Theft in Orlando
If you have been accused of any type of theft case, it is imperative that you hire an experienced theft defense lawyer right away. There are many penalties that you can face, depending on the level and severity of the theft charge. It can be difficult for you to find employment with a crime of dishonesty on your criminal history.
What is scary is that you can be arrested for simply walking past "points of sale" (cash registers) without paying for the items in your shopping cart, even if was an honest mistake on your part. Some store employees seem to think that everyone is a thief. You can find yourself charged with a felony offense even where the store gets its items back, and even if you never walked out of the store with the merchandise.
Theft is listed in Florida Statute 812.014. It is defined as:
- Knowingly taking or using someone else's property or
- Tries to take or use someone else's property
with the intent to either keep it away from that person or use it for yourself or another person.
Severity of a theft crime
The severity for the crime of theft is generally based on the value of the property stolen.
- If the value of the property is under $100 it is a 2nd degree misdemeanor that could land you in jail for up to 60 days
- between $100 to $300 is a 1st degree misdemeanor that brings a maximum jail sentence of 1 year
- Grand Theft if the value of the property is over $300 but less than $20,000. This charge is a third degree felony and is punishable by up to 5 years in the state prison system.
- $20,000 but less than $100,000 is a 2nd degree felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
- Over $100,000 is a 1st degree felony which can bring a prison sentence of 30 years.
Also, the severity of a theft charge can also be enhanced based on previous theft convictions. If you have 2 previous theft convictions, you can be charged with a third degree felony on the 3rd charge. You can suddenly be faced with a felony theft charge even if you just shoplifted a soda!
There are so many ways to have what might be considered a practical joke turn into a serious felony charge - based on what, where, and when a small item is taken.
Contact Orlando Theft Defense Lawyer Jack Kaleita
If you are facing theft charges in Orlando, Longwood or in any other place in Central Florida call our Orlando theft defense attorney today. Mr. Kaleita has extensive experience dealing with the different types of theft charges and will work with you to get the best possible outcome in your theft case. Let his background as a former prosecutor be in YOUR corner to protect YOU! Call him today! Call (407) 831-7800 or (866) 422-7934 for a free consultation. You may also email us at info@jackklaw.com or fill out our online form located at the top of this page and we will get back to you shortly.
