Sarasota Theft Crime Lawyer

Experienced Defense in Sarasota County

Theft is typically the crime of taking property from another party without appropriate consent and with the intent to keep it permanently. Merely attempting to take something in such a manner and not succeeding can be considered theft in Florida State law. It is in this gray area that theft charges may be contested, as criminal intent is not always clear or even present when an item is unduly taken from another. Additionally, if you are being charged with a theft crime, the accusing party or prosecutor would have to provide evidence that proves you were trying to keep the item permanently.

Rather than attempting to defend yourself with these legalities, the right choice is to retain an experienced Sarasota criminal defense lawyer to do the legwork for you. At the Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, we have a focus on criminal defense cases that have yielded us an impressive track record of success.

Have you been charged with a theft crime? Call The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, today at (941) 564-5319 or contact us online to meet with our Sarasota theft crime attorney!

What are the Penalties for Petit Theft?

Each state has its own considerations when it comes to defining the severity of a theft crime, and Florida has two main divisions:

• Petit theft: If a stolen item is valued under $100, as typically the case in items taken through shoplifting, Florida courts define it as petit theft. Punishments for petit theft cannot exceed more than one year of jail time and more than $1000 in fines. Under certain circumstances, items valued under $300 may be considered as petit theft.

What are the Penalties for Grand Theft?

• Grand theft: Items valued over $300, or any amount of a controlled substance (§ 812.014.), stolen constitute grand theft in the state of Florida, and can carry penalties of up to 30 years prison time and $10,000 in fines. It should be noted that an item with a value between $100-300 that is stolen from someone's private household can be considered as grand theft.

Can You Get Probation for Grand Theft?

You can get probation for grand theft. While on probation a person must meet specified requirements, such as meeting regularly with a probation officer, finding or maintaining employment, paying all fines and restitution within a certain amount of time, and not stealing anything else or committing any more crimes. Probation will usually last for a year and three year sentences or more is possible.

Let Our Criminal Defense Attorney Help You

If you feel a $1000 punishment is far too excessive for the crime of stealing a $20 item, you are not alone. Our professional team of associates at The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC has an authentic and passionate drive to defend those charged with criminal offenses. We know that one mistake shouldn't mean the end of your wellbeing, and that the legal system can seem unfairly stacked against the accused. We encourage you to schedule a free 30-minute case review today and begin taking the right steps to defend yourself in court.

Contact The Law Office of Wyndel G. Darville, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation!