If you have been accused of theft and are facing criminal charges in Stuart, Palm City, Jensen Beach, Hobe Sound, Hutchinson Island, Sewall’s Point, Port Salerno, Jupiter, Tequesta, Indiantown, or any part of Martin County, you need The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. on your side. Theft is the unauthorized taking or use of another person’s property. Depending on the value of the item stolen it will either be classified as petit or grand theft. Petit theft is a misdemeanor that involves theft of an item valued at or below $300. Grand theft is a felony that involves theft of an item valued above $300. Depending on the severity of the crime, punishment can range from fines or probation to actual jail time.
If you have been accused of theft, you need the best legal representation on your side to defend your rights. The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. understands Florida law and will fight for your freedom. For the best outcome in your case, contact The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. today at 772-220-4400 to schedule a consultation.
Why Do I Need an Attorney?
If you have been charged with a theft crime, there will be a team of prosecutors responsible for bringing a case against you. They will be experienced, skilled, and aggressive legal professionals that have handled many cases like yours before. You likely do not have the legal knowledge to be able to represent yourself adequately against the state. You need an attorney that can come up with the best legal strategy for your case. A criminal defense lawyer will be able to analyze the facts of your case to identify the best possible defenses for you. For example, prosecutors will have to prove the intent to commit theft. An attorney can try to prove that there was no intent, which may get the charge dismissed.
You have the constitutional right to be considered innocent until proven guilty. In criminal cases, the prosecution must be able to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If your attorney can introduce any doubt into the case, your charges could be reduced or dropped entirely. Having an attorney will ensure the best outcome in your case.
Why Choose The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A.?
David Golden has been dedicated to helping clients in situations similar to yours for over 20 years. He is passionate about ensuring that every single one of his clients is afforded the best legal representation possible. He believes that everyone is entitled to a fair trial. He has experience providing aggressive and effective legal help. He has a reputation for being successful in representing clients, including an AV-Preeminent rating from Martindale Hubbell and a perfect 10 rating with Avvo. Through hard work and diligence, he will do everything possible to get your charge reduced or even completely dismissed. To ensure the best resolution to your case, contact The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. today.
Cases We Handle
You can be charged with different variations of theft crimes, depending on the manner in which the item was stolen, or what was stolen. Some theft crimes include:
- Burglary: This is a property crime that occurs when someone enters another’s premises with the intent to engage in unlawful activity. This includes theft.
- Robbery: This is the crime of taking another’s property with the use of force. This crime is a combination of assault and theft.
- Identity theft: It is a crime to take someone’s identity for the purpose of getting credit cards from banks, or to steal money from the person’s existing bank accounts. Identity theft can also include taking out a loan under the victim’s name, leasing cars or homes under the victim’s name, and even obtaining employment under the victim’s name.
- Embezzlement: The crime of embezzlement occurs when a person in a position of trust or responsibility for assets steals the assets or property. This crime usually happens in employment and corporate settings.
- Shoplifting: If a person takes the property of a merchant without completing payment, or alters labels or price tags, it is a crime of theft, also known as retail theft.
- Auto theft: Whether you steal a car from a dealership or someone’s driveway, you can be charged with auto theft.
- Larceny: This is the unlawful taking, carrying, leading, or riding away of property from the possession of another person. The item can be moved a long or short distance.
Regardless of which of these crimes was committed, they will be classified as either grand theft or petit theft, depending on the value of the items stolen. If you are convicted of any of these crimes, you will face serious consequences. Remember that proper legal representation can be the difference between being free and being in jail.
Theft Conviction Consequences
If you choose to plead not guilty, you will have to present your case in a jury trial. If the jury finds you guilty, or you plead guilty, you will be sentenced according to how much the law allows and how much the jury chooses. Some of the possible punishments and consequences of conviction of theft crimes include:
- Jail time: Depending on whether you are convicted of grand or petty theft, you can be sentenced to up to 30 years in prison.
- Fines: Depending on the value of the items stolen, you can face up to $10,000 in fines.
- Probation: This is a court order requiring supervision rather than prison time. Rules and conditions of probation can require you to pay fines and meet regularly with probation officers. You will often be required to avoid certain places or activities. You can be prohibited from leaving the state. You could also be subject to random urinalysis tests. If you fail to comply with your probation requirements, you will then be subject to jail time.
- Community Service: You may be ordered to complete a certain number of hours of community service with a local non-profit organization.
- Mandatory Educational Classes: Classes like the Theft Awareness Class can be a court-ordered requirement if you have been charged with a theft crime.
- House Arrest: You may be required to wear an ankle monitor and prohibited from leaving your house unless it is to go to work.
You can be punished with any combination of the options above. Furthermore, if convicted, you will be left with a permanent criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. This can make it more difficult to get a job, obtain a loan to buy a house, or apply for professional licenses. The best way to avoid these life-altering consequences is to seek the assistance of an experienced criminal defense attorney.
Contact Us
If you are being charged with a theft crime, contact the Stuart legal team at The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. for legal help today. A conviction will change your life forever, so you need to be sure you have the best lawyer to advocate for you and protect your rights. Call The Law Offices of David Golden, P.A. today at 772-220-4400 for your free case evaluation.