Boca Raton Theft Lawyer

Florida state law defines theft as someone knowingly taking, using, or attempting to take or use someone else’s property with the intention of either depriving the owner of its use or using it for one’s own unauthorized purposes. This covers a wide variety of illegal acts that may be premeditated, impulsive, or in some cases, even accidental.

If you are facing criminal charges over allegations that you stole someone else’s goods, services, or personal property, you should make speaking with a Boca Raton theft lawyer your top priority. Our award-winning defense attorneys at Rossen Law Firm know exactly how challenging these sorts of cases often are and will fight hard to get you the best possible outcome in your case.

Degrees of Theft Offenses Under State Law

Florida Statutes § 812.014 differentiates between “petit theft” and “grand theft” by the total financial value of the property or services allegedly taken and sometimes by the nature of the property in question. Petit theft in the second degree is theft of less than $100 and is a second-degree misdemeanor. Petit theft in the first degree is theft of between $100 and $750 and is a first-degree misdemeanor. Maximum sanctions for these offenses include 60 days in jail plus a $500 fine for the former and one year in jail plus a $1,000 fine for the latter.

Third-degree grand theft involves stealing between $750 and $20,000, which is a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years imprisonment and a $5,000 fine. Second-degree grand theft involves stealing between $20,000 and $100,000 of goods or services, while first-degree grand theft involves over $100,000 of goods or services. These are second-degree and first-degree felonies punishable by $10,000 maximum fines in addition to 15 and 30-year prison terms. An expert Boca Raton attorney can provide more information about the nature of a specific theft charge and the potential penalties it carries.

Aggravating Factors in Theft Cases

Some types of theft are considered felonies regardless of the value of the goods stolen. For example, theft of any firearm is always a third-degree felony. State law also treats theft from anyone 65 or older more harshly. The value of property required to constitute grand theft is lower in these cases, and convicted individuals may also have to pay restitution and complete community service requirements.

Repeat theft offenders also can face enhanced penalties for each subsequent conviction, and someone who commits first-degree grand theft after two or more prior felony convictions may face a life sentence in prison. A theft lawyer in Boca Raton can work to avoid these severe penalties by creating a strong defense.

Get in Touch with an Experienced Boca Raton Theft Attorney Today

Theft charges can be daunting. Having knowledgeable legal representation can make all the difference in how your case turns out. If you or someone you know is facing theft charges, the team at Rossen Law Firm is here to help. We believe that one mistake should not have the power to upend your entire life, and we will fight to ensure that your rights and your future are protected.

When you work with Rossen Law Firm, you don’t just get one Boca Raton theft attorney on your case. You get a full defense team that is committed to getting you the results you need. Call our office today to get started.