Coral Springs Theft & Burglary Defense Attorney
Throughout Palm Beach and Broward Counties.
Theft charges in Florida carry serious consequences that extend far beyond the courtroom. From fines and jail time to a permanent criminal record that damages your reputation, employment, and housing prospects. We fight aggressively to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.
Repeat Offender Enhancement
A second petty theft conviction is automatically upgraded to a third-degree felony, regardless of the value stolen. Up to 5 years in prison.
Theft Charges in Florida
Theft is classified based on the value of stolen property and circumstances of the offense.
Petty Theft
Property under $750. First offense is typically a misdemeanor. Repeat offenses escalate to felony.
Grand Theft
Property over $750. Always a felony with penalties based on value: $750-$20K, $20K-$100K, or $100K+.
Shoplifting
Retail theft can range from misdemeanor to felony. Often includes civil penalties and store bans.
Burglary
Entering property with intent to commit a crime. Always a felony with severe prison sentences.
Florida Theft Penalties
2nd Degree Misdemeanor
Property under $100. Up to 60 days jail, $500 fine.
1st Degree Misdemeanor
Property $100-$750. Up to 1 year jail, $1,000 fine.
3rd Degree Felony
Property $750-$20,000. Up to 5 years prison, $5,000 fine.
1st Degree Felony
Property $100,000+. Up to 30 years prison, $10,000 fine.
A Theft Conviction Follows You
The consequences of a theft conviction extend far beyond fines and jail time. A permanent record can affect every aspect of your life.
Employment
Theft convictions are particularly damaging. Employers view theft as a character issue and often won't hire.
Housing
Landlords run background checks. A theft record suggests untrustworthiness and leads to denials.
Professional Licenses
Many licensing boards deny or revoke licenses for theft convictions, ending careers.
Civil Liability
Retailers can sue for civil damages up to three times the value of merchandise plus attorney fees.
Defense Strategies for Theft Charges
We examine every aspect of your case to build the strongest possible defense.
Lack of Intent
Theft requires proof you intended to permanently deprive the owner. Accidents, misunderstandings, or borrowing are not theft.
Mistaken Identity
Store security and surveillance aren't always accurate. We challenge identification evidence.
Ownership Dispute
If you had a good-faith belief the property was yours or you had permission, it's not theft.
Coercion or Duress
If you were forced or threatened into taking property, this is a valid defense.
Burglary & Robbery Defense
Burglary and robbery are separate crimes from theft but often charged together. Both carry severe felony penalties.
Burglary
Entering a structure or vehicle with intent to commit a crime inside. Can be charged even if nothing was actually taken. Ranges from 3rd degree to 1st degree felony (life imprisonment if armed).
Robbery
Theft using force, violence, or threat. Always a felony. Armed robbery carries mandatory minimum prison sentences and can result in life imprisonment.
Facing Theft or Burglary Charges?
A theft conviction can follow you for life, affecting jobs, housing, and your reputation. We fight to protect your future. Free consultation.