Theft Crimes Attorney in Miami

Petit Theft vs. Grand Theft

Theft crimes are classified as grand theft and petit theft. The severity of the charge (misdemeanor or felony) and penalties for a conviction are based on the value of the item(s)/property taken as well as the criminal record of the accused. Petit theft is charged as a misdemeanor when the value of the property allegedly taken is less than $300. Penalties for misdemeanor petit theft include fines and upto one year in jail. In fact, a third conviction for a petit theft, increases the maximum fine to $5,000 and maximum prison sentence to 5 years.

When the value of the property taken is over $300 the charge is filed as a felony Grand Theft. Fines are increased as are potential prison sentences (up to 30 years). A theft crime conviction on your record will greatly impact your future opportunities for employment. A Miami criminal defense lawyer from the firm can ensure that your rights are protected, and take action to help you fight to avoid the consequences of a conviction. Whether it is a case of mistaken identity, you made an error, or there are mitigating circumstances, you deserve an attorney that knows how to best manage your defense and get desirable results. A creative and skilled defense lawyer from the firm of Mait Law can help.

Miami Theft Crimes Defense Lawyer

A key factor in building a case for a theft crime is establishing proof of the intention behind the taking of any property. For a conviction, the prosecution must prove the intention not to return the property at the time the property was taken. It is not uncommon in many theft crimes cases for the person charged with the crime to have honestly believed that they had rightful ownership over the property they took, or for the person charged with the theft crime to have actually taken the property with intention to pay for it at a later date, but later on had the inability to pay for the property due to unforeseen financial problems. No matter what the circumstances are of your case, you will receive individualized attention from a committed and aggressive lawyer at the firm who has only your interests in mind.

If you have been charged with petit theft or grand theft, contact a Miami theft crime attorney at the firm today.