Melbourne Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer

Defending Against Theft Crime Charges in Brevard County

Theft is generally defined as knowingly obtaining or using another’s property with the intent to deprive the owner permanently or temporarily or appropriating the property for one’s own or another’s use. Theft crimes in Florida are described as various offenses involving property and services, divided into petty theft and grand theft. How these offenses are charged will generally depend on the value or type of the goods or services allegedly stolen.

Have you been accused of theft? Call the Law Offices of Laura D. Siemers today at (321) 218-5512 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our theft crimes attorney in Melbourne.

Theft Offenses in Florida

A theft crime conviction can reflect badly on your reputation, making it difficult to find future jobs or housing since it is perceived as dishonesty. Depending on the nature and value of the theft, you could be facing misdemeanor or felony charges involving incarceration, fines, probation, restitution, loss of your driving privileges, and other penalties. At the Law Offices of Laura D. Siemers, we have defended thousands of individuals of all types of offenses in the area, including those involving various kinds of theft. Our Melbourne theft crime defense attorney knows the local system, laws, and procedures, having more than 20 years of practice in criminal defense.

Examples of theft offenses in Florida include:

• Shoplifting
• Petty theft
• Grand theft
• Burglary
• Robbery
• Dealing in stolen goods
• Embezzlement

Penalties for Petty Theft

Petty theft involves stealing goods or services valued at up to $299. Second-degree misdemeanor petty theft is punishable by up to 60 days in jail with fines of $500, while first-degree misdemeanor petty theft carries penalties of up to a year in jail and fines of $1,000. Charges and penalties are enhanced for repeat offenders.

Penalties for Grand Theft

Grand theft involves property valued from $300 up to $100,000 or more charged as either third-, second-, or first-degree felonies. Penalties associated with grand theft range from five years in prison with fines of $5,000 up to 30 years in prison with fines up to $10,000. Theft crimes can also lead to civil lawsuits by victims seeking damages and court costs.

Contact the Law Offices of Laura D. Siemers today to get started with our Melbourne theft crime defense lawyer.