Have you or someone you know been charged with grand theft in Florida? If so, it is important to understand the charges, penalties, and defenses that may be available to you. The lawyers at our firm have experience handling grand theft cases and can help you navigate this difficult time. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Is Grand Theft In FL?
Grand theft in Florida is a serious offense that can come with serious consequences. It is a type of property theft involving the taking of goods or items valued at over $750. It is classified as a felony and may result in prison time and significant fines, along with possible civil liability to the victim.
Grand theft typically requires knowledgeable legal defense in court, as an experienced attorney will understand the intricacies of criminal charges and be able to provide representation in any potential dispute. Understanding grand theft in Florida can help prepare someone for the potential consequences should they ever find themselves facing such charges.
The Charges
Grand theft in Florida is typically categorized as a felony of the third degree and carries with it penalties of up to five years in state prison. Depending on the particular circumstances, those convicted could also be charged at a much higher severity when trying to gauge and prosecute the crime.
That’s why it’s important for individuals accused of such crimes to understand their legal standing and possible outcomes for their court hearing. Understanding potential challenges and how to appropriately proceed beforehand will help ensure that anyone found guilty has received fair, just, and impartial treatment as it pertains to the Florida state legal system.
Penalties for Grand Theft
If convicted of grand theft in the state of Florida, you could be facing a severe punishment ranging from community service to up to 30 years in prison, depending on the value and type of stolen property that is involved. Your legal defense attorney can challenge the penalties issued by the court and will have various strategies available for challenging the charges, though it is important to remember that if convicted, even a minimum sentence will remain on your record permanently. Understanding what penalties are applicable as well as exploring all avenues of defense is vital when dealing with more serious cases such as grand theft.
Legal Defenses
In Florida, grand theft charges are punishable by potential imprisonment and/or steep fines. However, there is some hope for those facing grand theft charges. Understanding the available legal defenses can give defendants a fighting chance in court. Examples of possible legal defenses applicable to grand theft cases in Florida include essential elements of criminal defense, entrapment defense, lack of knowledge defense, and the claim of right defense.
Each of these defenses challenge an element or elements of the prosecution’s case and can offer viable defense options to those facing grand theft charges in Florida courts. Consulting with a qualified attorney to understand the legal implications associated with each type of legal defense is always recommended.
If you are facing criminal charges, contact The Law Office of Armando J. Hernandez P.A.