Fort Lauderdale Grand Theft Lawyer

Attorney Defending Against Felony Theft Charges in Fort Lauderdale, FL

In Florida, theft charges may be divided into two categories: grand theft and petit theft. Grand theft is the more serious charge, and these offenses are classified as felonies. A conviction can carry severe penalties, including multiple years of prison time, high fines, the requirement to pay restitution, the loss of certain rights, and a permanent criminal record. Charges of grand theft may apply when someone is accused of stealing items of significant worth or certain types of protected property. These charges can have long-lasting effects on a person's life, career, and future opportunities.

At The Hoffman Firm, our lawyer defends clients in Fort Lauderdale who are facing grand theft charges. He takes a detailed approach to each case, working to investigate the allegations, examine the prosecution's evidence, and develop strategies that may lead to reduced charges, the dismissal of a case, or an acquittal. When a client's freedom and future are on the line, he will take every step necessary to protect their rights.

What Is Grand Theft?

Charges of grand theft may apply in cases where a person is accused of stealing property valued at $750 or more. Grand theft charges may also apply in cases involving certain types of property, regardless of the property's value, including firearms, motor vehicles, and certain controlled substances.

Florida law divides grand theft into three degrees, depending on the value of the stolen property and other specific circumstances.

Grand Theft in the Third Degree

When the value of the allegedly stolen property is $750 to $20,000, third-degree felony charges may apply. Third-degree grand theft may also involve allegations of the theft of a firearm, a motor vehicle, a commercial farm animal, a fire extinguisher, a stop sign, anhydrous ammonia that may be used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, or a controlled substance. The penalties for a third-degree felony conviction may include a prison sentence lasting for up to five years.

Grand Theft in the Second Degree

When the value of the allegedly stolen property is between $20,000 and $100,000, second-degree felony charges may apply. Second-degree grand theft may also involve allegations of the theft of commercial cargo worth less than $50,000 or theft of emergency medical equipment or law enforcement equipment worth at least $300. The penalties for a second-degree felony conviction may include a prison sentence lasting for up to 15 years.

Grand Theft in the First Degree

When the value of the allegedly stolen property is at least $100,000, first-degree felony charges may apply. First-degree grand theft may also involve allegations of the theft of commercial cargo worth at least $50,000 or damage to another person's property while committing grand theft that resulted in losses of at least $1,000. The penalties for a first-degree felony conviction may include a prison sentence lasting for up to 30 years.

Examples of Situations That May Lead to Grand Theft Charges

Some common examples of allegations that could result in charges of grand theft include:

• Shoplifting high-value merchandise from a retail store
• Stealing a car or other motor vehicle
• Embezzling funds or company property from an employer
• Taking expensive electronics, jewelry, or tools from a private residence or business
• Committing credit card fraud or identity theft that results in large losses

In some cases, the value of the property involved in a case may be overestimated or unclear, and prosecutors may pursue charges that do not accurately reflect what occurred. Our attorney will carefully investigate the allegations to ensure that the charges match the facts.

Defense Strategies for Grand Theft Charges

When addressing charges of grand theft, our lawyer will review the circumstances in which a person was arrested, the evidence involved in a case, and the behavior of law enforcement to build a defense that challenges the elements of the crime. He may use defense strategies such as:

• Lack of Intent to Steal: Charges of grand theft will be based on allegations that a person intended to permanently or temporarily take money or property from the rightful owner. If a person believed they had permission to use property or were the property's rightful owner, or if they intended to return the property, this may serve as a defense.
• Mistaken Identity or False Accusation: In some cases, a person may be misidentified or falsely accused, especially when surveillance footage is unclear or when there are disputes between acquaintances or family members. Our attorney may present evidence to show that a person was not involved in the alleged theft.
• Valuation Disputes: The value of the allegedly stolen property may be disputed. Our lawyer can take steps to show that the value is less than what had originally been claimed, potentially reducing the severity of the charges.
• Negotiating for Reduced Charges: In some cases, especially when a person has no prior criminal record, it may be possible to negotiate for a reduction in charges, entry into a diversion program, or a resolution that will help a person avoid a conviction.

Contact Our Fort Lauderdale, Florida Grand Theft Attorney

When facing felony charges involving grand theft, acting quickly can make a significant difference in the outcome of a case. Felony charges carry long-term consequences, but with the right legal defense, it may be possible to avoid the most serious penalties. Contact the Fort Lauderdale grand theft defense lawyer at The Hoffman Firm by calling 954-524-4474 and arranging a free consultation.