Orlando Theft Lawyer

Theft charges can have significant repercussions for those accused. Even seemingly minor charges like petty theft, can still result in consequences that include driver’s license suspension, fines, probation, and jail time. Defendants need a dedicated and experienced legal team by their side. 

Attorney Mills has over 14 years of experience. Before becoming a defense lawyer in 2015, he worked as a prosecutor. That means we know the system on both sides. We know that mistakes get made, and we know where to look for them. We can leverage our broad-based knowledge on your behalf. 

Based in Orlando, our theft lawyer serves Orange and Polk counties. Call (321) 475-0928 or contact us online today for a free consultation. We can meet in person or virtually.

The Legal Definition of Theft

In legal terms, theft, robbery, and burglary are distinct crimes, each with its own set of elements and implications: 

• Theft generally involves the unlawful taking of someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of that property. This can include various forms of stealing, such as shoplifting, embezzlement, or fraud.
• Robbery is where there is the use of force, threats, or intimidation to take someone else’s property. Unlike theft, robbery typically occurs in the presence of the victim and carries a more severe penalty due to the element of violence or coercion involved. 
• Burglary involves unlawfully entering a building or structure with the intent to commit a crime inside. While theft focuses on the act of stealing itself, burglary centers on the illegal entry into a property. 

Each of these allegations has its own dynamic. It’s important to work with experienced legal counsel who can understand the nuanced differences and craft an appropriate defense strategy. 

Theft Penalties in Florida

The general guidelines for theft sentencing are as follows: 

• Theft of property valued at less than $300 will likely be charged as a misdemeanor. 
• If the stolen property’s value exceeds $300, the crime escalates to a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. 
• The penalty for theft involving property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 could extend to 15 years behind bars. 
• In cases where the property’s value surpasses $100,000, the punishment may reach up to 30 years in prison.

Moreover, individuals with prior theft convictions face the risk of enhanced charges based on their criminal history.