Central Florida Criminal Defense Attorney
In Florida, there are a variety of theft charges, many of which can carry serious penalties. As an experienced trial attorney and former prosecutor, Attorney Frost can help you navigate the legal system, understand your rights and help you get the best possible outcome for your case. It’s important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to begin building your defense.
At Frost Law, we are committed to helping you with your theft charge. As a former prosecutor, Attorney Frost prosecuted hundreds of theft cases, and he knows how to build a strong defense for your case.
At Frost Law, we help clients with all types of theft Charges, including:
Each of these charges deserves its own individualized defense strategy, and we have extensive experience in tailoring our approach to the unique circumstances of each case. If you or someone you know is facing a theft Charge, it’s important to contact an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible to help protect your rights.
In Florida, theft and fraud offenses encompass a broad spectrum of criminal activities. The legal definitions and elements of these charges may vary depending on the specific crime. Here, we provide a general overview of the legal definitions for theft charges:
Grand Theft: Grand theft is defined in Florida as the unlawful taking of property with a value greater than $300. The specific degree of grand theft varies based on the value of the stolen property, with three degrees of grand theft.
Petit Theft: A person commits petit theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses the property of another with intent to deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property. The severity of the charge and penalties depend on the value of the stolen property and the offender’s prior theft convictions:
Shoplifting: Shoplifting is a form of theft that can be charged as petit theft or grand theft, depending on the value of the items allegedly stolen.
Identity Theft: Identity theft involves using someone else’s personal information for fraudulent purposes, such as opening accounts, making purchases, or committing other financial crimes.
Credit Card Fraud: Credit card fraud occurs when someone unlawfully uses another person’s credit card to make unauthorized transactions.
Worthless Check: Writing or using a check with insufficient funds, or knowing it will be dishonored upon presentation, constitutes worthless check fraud.
Forged Instrument: Forgery involves creating or altering a document or instrument with the intent to deceive, defraud, or injure someone.
Dealing in Stolen Property: This charge relates to knowingly trafficking in property that is known to be stolen.
Forgery: Forgery involves making or altering documents, such as checks or legal instruments, with the intent to deceive.
Home Invasion: Home invasion is a violent crime that involves forcibly entering someone’s home with the intent to commit theft, robbery, or other offenses.
The penalties for theft and fraud charges in Florida can be severe, and they vary depending on the specific crime and its classification as a misdemeanor or felony. Here are the potential penalties for some of the most common charges:
Misdemeanor Theft (Petit Theft):
Grand Theft:
Grand Theft Motor Vehicle:
These are just the basic penalties, and other consequences may apply based on the specific circumstances of the case and the defendant’s criminal history.
Successfully defending against theft and fraud charges in Orlando requires a tailored approach for each case. Some common defense strategies include:
Challenging The Evidence: Reviewing all evidence, including witness statements, video recordings, and the actual value of the stolen property, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
Constitutional Rights Violation: Evaluating whether your constitutional rights, such as the right to remain silent (Miranda rights), were violated during the arrest or questioning by law enforcement.
Civil Demand Letter: Addressing separate matters, such as civil demand letters from stores seeking reimbursement, in collaboration with your attorney.
Establishing Alibis or Lack of Intent: Proving that you were not at the scene of the crime or did not have the intent to commit theft or fraud.
Identity Theft Defenses: Demonstrating that you were not the person who engaged in the identity theft or that you had no knowledge of the fraudulent activity.
Investigating The Value of Stolen Property: Assessing whether the prosecution has accurately determined the value of the stolen property.
An experienced Orlando theft and fraud charges attorney can provide invaluable assistance in several ways:
Frost Law is dedicated to defending individuals facing a wide range of theft charges throughout Central Florida. With our experienced legal team, you can access a wealth of knowledge, resources, and effective defense strategies tailored to your specific case. If you’re accused of petit theft, grand theft or other theft-related offenses, contact us today to protect your rights.
We are dedicated to providing strategic and personalized representation, guiding you through the legal process with expertise and compassion.
Our commitment to open communication, strategic advocacy, and a relentless pursuit of justice sets us apart. If you find yourself facing burglary charges in Florida, don’t face it alone. Contact Frost Law for a confidential consultation, and let us help you protect what matters most.
It is possible to have your charges dismissed, but it depends on the strength of your defense strategy and the evidence against you.
It is generally advisable to exercise your right to remain silent and consult with an attorney before speaking to the police.
Consult with your attorney to determine the best course of action regarding civil demand letters.
Expungement or sealing of your criminal record may be possible in some cases. Consult with an attorney to explore your options.
Frost Law is a full-service law firm that focuses on Criminal Defense, DUI, Estate planning, Wills, Trusts & Asset Protection and Probate. Our Estate Planning options ensure that you have a comprehensive and effective plan in place for you and your loved ones.
Serving Orange County, Lake County, Seminole County, Osceola County, Brevard County & Polk County