Criminal Defense: Grand Theft

Grand Theft 1st, 2nd and 3rd DegreeThe criminal defense law firm of DMT has represented dozens of clients in Miami and the South Florida area that have been charged in state court with grand theft and petit theft. Theft is defined under the Florida Statutes as person who knowingly, intentionally and unlawfully obtained or took another individual's property either permanently or temporarily against their will or without their consent. There are several degrees of grand theft, all of which are felonies, while petit theft is a misdemeanor. The degree of theft that will be charged by a prosecutor is determined solely by the value of the item that was taken without consent or authority.
The punishments that attach to theft charges are directly proportionate to value of property subject to the theft. For instance, grand theft 1st degree is a level 7 offense under the Florida Criminal Punishment Code on the Offense Severity Ranking Chart. A level 7 offense score 21 months at the bottom of the sentencing guidelines up to thirty years in prison. The remainder of the grand theft charges are at level 6 and below. As long a defendant does not have a prior criminal record, they will score out to non-state prison and be eligible for the pre-trial intervention program or probation. A petit theft charge usually carries a penalty of credit time served or the pre-trial diversion program. The punishments may not be severe, but serious immigration consequences could result for non-citizens who unwittingly enter pleas.

There are many different types of grand theft. Shoplifting, if the dollar amount exceeds $300.00, is one type of grand theft. Another type of grand theft is grand theft vehicle as the value of most automobiles exceeds $300.00. Theft of a firearm is also considered grand theft under the Florida Statutes. Although firearms may have a value less than $300.00, due to dangerous nature of the property, the theft of any firearm is a felony regardless of the value. Dealing in stolen property and theft of communications services are other types of theft charges punishable under Florida law.

While some of the punishments can be severe, restitution can also be ordered by the court. The criminal defense lawyers at DMT have represented hundreds of clients charged with a variety of theft charges. In many instances the criminal lawyers have been able to secure dismissals and not guilty verdicts after trial. Each member of our defense team has years of experience in defending theft cases in South Florida.

If you are under investigation for, or have been arrested and charged with any theft offense, contact the Miami criminal lawyers at DMT. An experienced criminal attorney is available every day of the year, 24 hours a day to speak with you regarding your situation. Allow us the opportunity to help protect your rights and defend you case and you will not be disappointed. You can call our office at (305) 340-2197 or reach us by completing the form on our contact page or by sending an e-mail.