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Petty Theft

Petty theft charges are frequently encountered in the state of Florida, constituting one of the most commonly prosecuted offenses. Petty theft entails the unauthorized acquisition of property valued below a specific threshold, which varies from state to state. In Florida, petty theft is characterized as the act of unlawfully appropriating property valued at less than $750. It is crucial to recognize that petty theft carries significant consequences in Florida, encompassing substantial penalties such as fines, probation, and even incarceration. If you find yourself facing a petty theft charge in Florida, it is vital to safeguard your rights and explore your options by seeking the assistance of a seasoned criminal defense attorney. At Hanlon Law, our team of attorneys has amassed extensive experience in defending clients against petty theft allegations over the years. We empathize with the apprehension brought about by criminal charges and stand prepared to navigate you through the intricate legal processes.


Theft vs. Petty Theft


In the state of Florida, theft is characterized as the deliberate act of appropriating someone else's property without their consent. The severity of theft offenses is determined by two categories: grand theft and petty theft, which are distinguished by the value of the stolen property.


Petty theft, also referred to as petit theft, is a less serious type of theft. In Florida, it is defined as the act of unlawfully taking property valued below $750. This encompasses actions such as shoplifting, pilfering a bicycle, or confiscating someone's phone or wallet.


Conversely, grand theft pertains to the theft of property valued at $750 or higher. Examples of grand theft include stealing a car, valuable jewelry, or other items of significant worth.


Penalties for Petty Theft in Florida


Being convicted of petty theft in Florida carries substantial consequences. The severity of these penalties is contingent upon the value of the stolen property as well as any prior criminal convictions you may have.


In the case of a first-time offense of petty theft involving property valued under $100, the penalty constitutes a second-degree misdemeanor, potentially resulting in a jail term of up to 60 days and a fine not exceeding $500.


For a first-time petty theft offense involving property valued between $100 and $750, the penalty is elevated to a first-degree misdemeanor. This can lead to a maximum incarceration period of one year and a fine that does not exceed $1,000.


If you possess previous convictions for petty theft, the penalties become even more severe. In Florida, a third conviction for petty theft is regarded as a felony offense, carrying the potential for significant prison time and substantial fines.


Defending Against Petty Theft Charges


When facing petty theft charges in Florida, it is crucial to seek the guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney who can provide insights into your rights and available options. Numerous defense strategies exist that can be effective in contesting petty theft charges.


One commonly employed defense involves asserting that the alleged theft was a result of a mistake or misunderstanding. For instance, if you inadvertently took someone else's property, genuinely believing it was your own, this defense can hold weight.


Another defense strategy entails arguing that you lacked the intention to steal the property. Intent is a pivotal element in any theft case, and if the prosecution fails to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that you possessed the intent to steal, securing a conviction becomes challenging.


A third defense approach involves scrutinizing the evidence presented against you. This may involve questioning the sufficiency of evidence to establish your involvement in the theft or challenging the legality of the evidence's acquisition.


By collaborating with a skilled attorney, you can explore these and other potential defenses tailored to your specific circumstances in order to mount a robust defense against petty theft charges.


Protect Your Future with an Experienced Petty Theft Defense Lawyer 


Petty theft charges have the potential to have long-lasting repercussions, including jail time, hefty fines, and a tarnished criminal record. If you or someone you know is facing arrest or investigation for petty theft, it is imperative to seek the guidance of a skilled criminal defense attorney. These attorneys possess the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate through the legal complexities, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of your rights and the charges against you. They also excel in negotiating favorable outcomes for their clients.


At Hanlon Law, our attorneys are well-versed in the consequences stemming from criminal convictions and are dedicated to providing a robust defense for your case. We prioritize safeguarding our clients' freedoms by meticulously examining the circumstances surrounding their arrests, scrutinizing the evidence put forth by law enforcement, and identifying any other factors that may aid in their defense.


To gain deeper insight into the potential ramifications and available defenses for petty theft charges in Florida, we encourage you to reach out to Hanlon Law and schedule a consultation. Our team of skilled Kissimmee criminal defense attorneys based in is ready to discuss your specific charges and offer the support you need. Take proactive steps to protect your rights by securing experienced legal representation today.

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