Karatinos Law, PLLC

Need An Attorney Who Will Go To Battle For You? Call 352-405-0537 Today. Keeley’s Available 24/7.

Karatinos Law, PLLC
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352-405-0537

Aggressive Representation in Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Cases

Powerful Defense Services from a Skilled Property Crimes Lawyer

If you have been accused of property crimes in Florida, it is important to remember you don’t have to go through this on your own. A dynamic property crime attorney can fiercely advocate for you and explore all options for pursuing results that protect your future. Our powerful defender at Karatinos Law, PLLC, is ready to stand by you.

From our office in Dade City, attorney Keeley Karatinos helps individuals throughout Pasco County, Hernando County and Sumter County fight property crime charges. She is well known for giving her all for her clients. She brings extensive legal knowledge, relentless tenacity and a deep dedication to making a difference for clients to every case.

What is a Property Crime?

Generally speaking, a property crime occurs when a person takes, intrudes on, damages or destroys property illegally. It is important to note that property crimes and theft crimes are not interchangeable terms. Theft crimes involve the taking of property. Meanwhile, property crimes cover not just theft offenses but an array of other criminal activities that interfere with the property of others.

What Property Crime Charges Could You Face in Florida?

In Florida, there are many different types of property offense charges. Common ones include:

  • Criminal mischief
  • Trespassing
  • Burglary
  • Arson
  • Burning to defraud an insurer
  • Theft/larceny

A skilled property crime lawyer can help you protect your future in the face of such allegations.

What is Criminal Mischief?

In Florida, criminal mischief involves willfully and maliciously damaging someone else’s property. This includes acts like vandalism and illegal graffiti. Under Florida Statute § 806.13, the severity of criminal mischief charges depends on the amount of damage caused:

  • Second-degree misdemeanor: $200 or less in damage
  • First-degree misdemeanor: More than $200 but less than $1,000 in damage
  • Third-degree felony: At least $1,000 in damage

The charge level can potentially increase if you have prior offenses. It may also do so if the target property was a protected structure, like a historical landmark or church.

There are also special rules related to criminal mischief offenses involving graffiti. Such crimes carry mandatory fines and community service requirements on top of the usual penalties for criminal mischief.

What is the Difference Between Trespass and Burglary?

While trespassing and burglary both involve an intrusion on someone else’s property, they are distinct offenses that differ in many key ways.

Trespassing is entering someone else’s property without permission. This offense is addressed in Florida Statutes § 810.08 to 810.098. It can range from a second-degree misdemeanor charge to a third-degree felony charge, depending on the specific allegations.

Burglary is a more serious offense under state law. It is entering a structure on someone else’s property with the intent to commit a crime. Burglary is prohibited under Florida Statute § 810.02. Unlike trespassing, burglary is always a felony in Florida. Burglary accusations could lead to a third-degree, second-degree or first-degree felony charge, depending on the unique circumstances of the case.

What is the Difference Between Arson and Burning to Defraud an Insurer?

Both of these crimes regard using fire against a property. However, they differ in their required elements.

For one, each has their own unique intent requirement. Arson requires that the fire or explosion was caused willfully or occurred in connection with a felony. Burning to defraud, meanwhile, requires willful intent to commit fraud against an insurance company.

They also vary in whether damage actually needs to occur. It does for arson; it does not for burning to defraud.

Both crimes are felonies, but they differ in severity. Under Florida Statute § 817.233, burning to defraud is a third-degree felony. Arson is a more serious allegation, as it can be a second-degree or a first-degree felony under Florida Statute § 806.01.

What Penalties Could You Face for a Property Crime in Florida?

The penalties depend on the level of the offense:

  • Second-degree misdemeanor offenses: A maximum jail sentence of 60 days and fines up to $500.
  • First-degree misdemeanor offenses: A maximum jail sentence of one year and fines up to $1,000.
  • Third-degree felony offenses: Up to five years of prison time and fines up to $5,000.
  • Second-degree felony offenses: Up to 15 years of prison time and fines up to $10,000.
  • First-degree felony offenses: Up to 30 years of prison time and fines up to $10,000.

Whatever potential penalties you are facing, it is important to understand your options for seeking to avoid them.

What Can an Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyer Do for You?

Such an attorney can provide you with trusted guidance and support through every step of your property crime case. They can:

  • Explain the charges you face and your options for fighting them.
  • Analyze the case and evidence against you to look for flaws.
  • Provide you with defense strategies tailored to your needs and situation.
  • Represent you in all court proceedings.
  • Tirelessly advocate for you and your future.

Whatever property crime charges you are facing, reaching out to a skilled legal defender can be a critical step in protecting your rights and putting yourself on the path to the solutions you need.

Get In Touch Today for a In-Person Free Consultation

We stand ready to defend you. Discuss your property crime case and your options with attorney Keeley in a free in-person consultation. You can schedule your consultation by calling 352-405-0537 or sending an email. Services are available in English, Spanish and Russian.