You Can’t Afford to Treat Theft or Larceny Charges Lightly
Theft, also known as larceny, can apply to any crime that involves stealing something, whether it’s a small, cheap item shoplifted from a store or thousands of dollars taken through embezzlement. When you have been accused of theft, it’s important to consult with an experienced attorney to explore your options. In Pasco, Hernando and Sumter counties, you can find the help you need by contacting Karatinos Law, PLLC. Attorney Keeley Karatinos offers aggressive defense representation focused on protecting your rights and safeguarding your freedom. She has helped countless others accused of crimes, and she can help you, too.
Theft is Defined Broadly Under Florida Law
According to Chapter 812 Section 014 of the 2011 Florida Statutes, theft is committed if a person “knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or to 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.”
This is a relatively broad definition and it allows for several levels of charges, ranging from misdemeanors to felonies. Larceny offenses are further classified based on the value of the property allegedly stolen. Someone can be charged with petty larceny for stealing something with a value of up to $1,000. The charge is upgraded to grand larceny if the value of the stolen property is more than $1,000.
Methods of Theft and Related Penalties
Under these two main categories of petty and grand larceny, there are four different modes of theft, including:
- Embezzlement: Theft of assets by a person trusted to keep those assets safe
- Shoplifting: Theft that involves stealing goods from a retail establishment
- Fraud: Theft that involves convincing someone to surrender their money or property under false pretenses
- Robbery: Theft that uses violence, intimidation or threats to obtain property
The potential penalties for theft in Florida vary greatly based on the severity of the crime. Petty larceny may impose a misdemeanor charge with $1,000 fine, three years of probation, or up to one year in jail. Grand larceny, on the other hand, is a felony, carrying the potential for imprisonment from 5 to 30 years with fines from $5,000 to $10,000.
Why Work With Attorney Keeley When Charged With a Theft Crime?
When facing theft charges, hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney can be invaluable.
There are several benefits to hiring Keeley after being accused of larceny in Florida. As your lawyer, she can:
- Explain the charges you are facing and what those mean for your case
- Evaluate the evidence against you and identify potential weaknesses or discrepancies in the prosecution’s case
- Be present during questioning by law enforcement personnel to ensure that your rights are being protected
- Negotiate an agreement with prosecutors for lesser charges, lighter sentences, or even dismissals of charges altogether, if appropriate
- Make sure that all possible defenses are pursued on your behalf
- Give you peace of mind knowing that someone is advocating on your behalf
You may think you need to go to trial, but the truth is that most charges are resolved through other means. Keeley will discuss all your options and help you pursue the resolution that best meets your needs and goals. She can communicate directly with you whether you are most comfortable speaking English, Spanish or Russian.
Free Consultations Available – Contact a Skilled Defense Attorney Today
Do not go through the legal process on your own. Let an experienced lawyer fight for you inside and outside the courtroom and help you get your life back on track. To schedule a free initial consultation, call Karatinos Law, PLLC, at 352-405-0537, or send a message online.