Theft

Felony or Misdemeanor Theft Charges

Theft charges encompass a variety of crimes ranging from shoplifting to burglary. The criminal penalties vary depending on whether the state charges you with a felony or a misdemeanor. No matter what the state charges you with, it is important to keep your criminal record clean.

At Raisman & Raisman, P.A., located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, our attorneys defend people against criminal theft charges with aggressive determination. With over 33 years of combined legal experience in Broward County, our firm understands the local court system. To speak to a lawyer about your case, contact us for a free initial consultation.

Theft charges take a variety of different forms including:

• Burglary: Burglary is the entering of a dwelling or structure with the intent to commit an offense therein.
• Robbery: Robbery is the taking of money or other property from the person or custody of another, with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the person or the owner of the money or other property, through the use of force, violence, assault, or putting the person in fear.
• Identity theft and bank theft: These crimes entail using another's identity to steal money, personal information, and property from another.
• Shoplifting and petit theft: These crimes are some of the most common types of thefts, and the state charges them as misdemeanors. A person commits theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or use, the property of another with intent to, either temporarily or permanently, deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property, or appropriate the property to his or her own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property.
• Grand theft auto: A serious crime, charged as either a felony or misdemeanor, depending on a variety of factors.
• White collar crimes such as embezzlement, fraud, tax evasion, and money laundering.

Criminal Restitution

You will face both financial and criminal penalties after a conviction for theft. It is possible that paying restitution to the victim will be a condition of your sentence. You could face a long period of probation. You will face the social stigma associated with a theft conviction, and may find it difficult to find employment.  It is important to hire an attorney to help you avoid these consequences.

First Time Offender and Diversion

The court may place certain first time offenders in diversion programs. If you successfully complete the program, your case could be dismissed. Diversion programs generally require you to complete community service, pay restitution, remain law abiding, and certain other court conditions.

To learn more about how we can help when you are charged with theft, speak to an experienced criminal defense lawyer at Raisman & Raisman, P.A. Contact us for a free initial consultation about your case. We represent people throughout Southern Florida, including people in Tamarac, Coral Springs, Miramar, Davie, and Oakland Park.

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