Helping You Prepare A Strong Defense To Theft And Other Property Crimes
Last updated on April 16, 2025
Not all theft and property crimes are misdemeanor offenses in Florida. Certain crimes constitute felony offenses that can lead to years in prison, steep fines and the loss of certain freedoms if convicted. Don’t leave your future to chance.
Whether you have been accused of writing a bad check, shoplifting a purse or committing a grand theft auto, you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can protect your rights against the overwhelming criminal justice system. At the Law Firm of Scott T. Moorey, we represent clients from all walks of life – from juveniles to adults. We know how to develop personalized defense strategies that work.
Understanding Theft Under Florida Law
Theft charges in Florida range from minor shoplifting incidents to serious felony offenses. Florida Statute Chapter 812 defines theft in straightforward terms. It happens when you take or use someone else’s property. Even attempting to take property counts. The key factor is that you must have intended to keep the owner from having their property – whether for a short time or permanently. This legal definition covers everything from borrowing without permission to outright stealing.
The severity of theft charges depends primarily on the value of the property taken:
- Petit theft (second-degree misdemeanor): Property valued at less than $100
- Petit theft (first-degree misdemeanor): Property valued between $100 and $750
- Grand theft (third-degree felony): Property valued between $750 and $20,000
- Grand theft (second-degree felony): Property valued between $20,000 and $100,000
- Grand theft (first-degree felony): Property valued at $100,000 or more
Florida law also elevates certain theft offenses regardless of value such as stealing a firearm, a will or from a construction site. Additionally, prior theft convictions can enhance penalties, turning what would be a misdemeanor into a felony charge.
Robbery, defined under Florida Statute 812.13, involves taking property from another person using force, violence or assault, or putting the victim in fear. Unlike simple theft, robbery is always classified as a felony due to the element of force or threat.
Confronting Property Destruction Under Florida Law
Under Florida Statute Chapter 806, intentionally damaging someone else’s property is a serious offense called criminal mischief. This includes graffiti, breaking windows, slashing tires or any other form of property damage.
The severity of the charge depends on the value of the damage:
- Damage less than $200: Second-degree misdemeanor
- Damage between $200 and $1,000: First-degree misdemeanor
- Damage over $1,000: Third-degree felony
The same statute covers arson, a more severe offense involving setting fire to a structure. Arson is typically charged as a felony, with penalties increasing based on the type of structure and whether it was occupied.
Even seemingly minor acts of property damage can lead to significant legal consequences, including jail time, probation and restitution payments. Many people don’t realize that temporary damage to property can still result in criminal charges.
Put Our Team’s Decades Of Criminal Law Experience To Your Advantage
Do not plead guilty before speaking to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Learn your rights. There are ways to defend against every charge, even if you believe you committed the offense.
At the Law Firm of Scott T. Moorey, we understand the nuances of these statutes and how prosecutors apply them. We’ve helped many clients facing theft, robbery, criminal mischief and arson charges build effective defenses. Don’t let a momentary lapse in judgment create a permanent criminal record.
Make the call to schedule a free initial consultation. Call 888-821-9168 or send us an email to get started. We have offices in Fort Myers, Naples, Punta Gorda and Labelle and serve Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry and Glades counties.