If you face theft charges, you likely feel concerned. Theft is a serious crime that carries harsh legal consequences.
To give yourself the best chance of resuming your life, you need to work with a skilled legal team. A Fort Pierce theft lawyer from Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates could investigate the situation and guide you through the legal system. A knowledgeable criminal defense attorney could review the evidence and develop a defense strategy that fits the facts of your case.
According to Florida Statutes § 812.014(1), theft occurs when a person knowingly takes, uses, or attempts to take or use another’s property with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of it and appropriate it for themselves or another. Theft offenses vary in severity, and penalties reflect the nature and value of the property involved.
Theft crimes often involve additional crimes, which can include:
The value of the stolen property typically determines the charge and corresponding penalties. Taking property worth less than $750 generally results in a petty theft charge, classified as a misdemeanor. Theft involving property valued over $750 typically results in a grand theft charge, a felony with more severe consequences. Aggravating factors—such as using a weapon or having prior theft convictions—can elevate the charges and lead to enhanced penalties.
A knowledgeable Fort Pierce attorney could carefully explain the theft charges to help an accused offender understand the potential legal consequences they face.
Facing theft charges often feels frightening. However, our seasoned Fort Pierce legal team could review the evidence and determine the most effective defense strategies for the charges.
To secure a theft conviction, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to deprive another person of their property. A defendant may argue that they lacked this intent and that a misunderstanding or mistake caused the incident. For example, someone who unintentionally takes two items from a store because the hangers were connected may still face shoplifting charges, despite the lack of intent. If the defense demonstrates that no intent existed, the court could dismiss the charges or reduce their severity.
A defendant might prove that the owner consented or gave permission to use the item, either because they borrowed it or because the owner gifted it to them.
A defendant might argue that they shared ownership of the item and therefore had the right to use it. For instance, some people share ownership of cars with neighbors or relatives. To succeed with this type of defense, a defendant must prove their ownership, such as by producing a sales receipt or a written agreement showing shared ownership.
To obtain a conviction, the prosecution must establish all elements of the crime. A skilled local lawyer from our firm could carefully challenge the prosecution’s evidence.
An experienced Fort Pierce attorney could review the evidence and determine what defense strategy for theft would best fit the facts.
Facing a theft charge often feels overwhelming. However, with the assistance of a skilled legal team, you could improve your chances of achieving a favorable outcome.
Call a Fort Pierce theft lawyer from Jonathan Jay Kirschner, Esq., & Associates today to discuss your charges during a free consultation.
