Arrested for Grand Theft in Miami? Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney
Criminal Defense Attorney Miami
In Miami, grand theft is a felony offense, and can include serious penalties and have a lasting impact on your life. Because a grand theft charge is so serious, obtaining the representation of a criminal defense attorney is highly recommended.
What is Grand Theft in Florida?
Per Florida Statute, Section 812.014, grand theft is defined as an unlawful or intentional taking of property that is worth $300.00 or more. Grand theft constitutes a felony charge and can range from a third-degree felony to a first-degree felony.
The crime of grand theft occurs when:
- A person knowingly and illegally takes or uses, or plans to take or use, the property that belongs to another person,
- The act of taking the property was done so with the clear intent of either temporarily or permanently removing the property form the victim, whom the property rightfully belonged to.
- The property that was taken was valued to be worth at least $300.00.
The Penalties for Grand Theft in Florida
The penalties for grand theft in the state of Florida are dependent on the amount alleged to have been stolen. The classification is usually dependent on the value that is assigned to the property that was confiscated; if the property has a value that is greater than $1,000.00, harsher penalties will likely be sought after by the State Attorney’s Office.
How a Grand Theft Defense Lawyer Can Help
If you have been charged with grand theft in the state of Florida, a Miami grand theft attorney experienced in handling theft charges can help to guide you through the legal process, and will work to have your charges reduced or dismissed.
In order to have grand theft charges reduced or dismissed, your attorney is going to need a viable defense. There are several defenses that would be considered viable when defending a grand theft charge. Possible defenses include:
- Lack of intent to steal the property. To be found guilty of grand theft, a court will have to find that you intended on stealing the property. If your attorney can prove a lack of intent, the charges should be reduced or dropped.
- Using or obtaining for lawful reasons. If your attorney can prove that you took or used the property in question in a lawful manner, your charges could be reduced or dropped.
- You had or had reasons to believe that you had the consent of the property owner to use or take the property in question.
We handle a variety of criminal law cases, so call us now if you have any questions, (305) 615-1285.
View more contact information here: Criminal Defense Attorney Miami.