Your Defense Against Theft Charges in Orlando
A conviction on theft charges can be a career-killer since it reflects on your honesty. In today's job environment, few employers would hire someone who has been convicted of stealing.
At The Bigney Law Firm in Orlando, Florida, our lawyers are dedicated to protecting your reputation and your future if you have been charged with a theft crime. We offer a free initial consultation to evaluate your case and explore defenses.
Petit Theft and Grand Theft
Theft of property valued at less than $300 is petty theft, a misdemeanor in Florida, punishable by up to one year in jail. Theft of property valued at $300 or more is grand theft. Grand theft can be a third, second or first-degree felony, depending on the amount. A first-degree felony is punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
One of the most common theft charges is retail theft or shoplifting. In addition to criminal penalties, people charged with shoplifting in Florida will also find themselves subject to a civil penalty of treble damages or $200 (whichever is greater).
Defenses in Shoplifting Cases
Our goal in a theft case is to resolve the charges without the stigma of a criminal conviction. If this is your first offense, our lawyers could seek pretrial diversion. After successfully completing a diversion program, the theft charges will be dismissed and your arrest record can be expunged.
Theft from Disney and Universal Studios (Tourist thefts)
Many of the people we represent on theft charges are tourists who are accused of taking items from the gift shops at Disney World or Universal Studios. In most cases, our lawyers can resolve these cases without the need for the accused to come back to Florida.
Free Case Evaluation
If you face grand or petty theft charges, your best defense is to contact a lawyer as soon as possible. To schedule a free case evaluation with an attorney at the Bigney Law Firm, call 407-792-2923 any time of the day or night or fill out our contact form. For your convenience, our office is located in downtown Orlando, Florida, one block behind the courthouse. Se habla Español.
