Grand Theft Defense Attorneys
Facing a grand theft charge in Martin County can be an overwhelming and frightening experience. Florida’s theft laws are strict, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years, impacting your career, finances, and reputation. At the Law Office of Denise Miller, our Martin County grand theft defense attorney provides experienced, aggressive, and strategic representation to protect your rights and fight for your future.
Whether you’ve been accused of shoplifting expensive goods, misappropriating property from an employer, or being involved in a larger theft scheme, our firm is prepared to challenge every aspect of the prosecution’s case and work toward the most favorable outcome possible.
Understanding Grand Theft Charges and Penalties in Martin County, FL
Under Florida Statute §812.014, theft occurs when a person knowingly and unlawfully obtains or uses another person’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of their rights or benefits. When the value of the property involved exceeds a certain amount, the offense becomes grand theft, a felony carrying severe criminal penalties.
The value of the stolen property generally categorizes grand theft:
- Grand Theft in the Third Degree: Involves property valued between $750 and $20,000. It is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Grand Theft in the Second Degree: Involves property valued between $20,000 and $100,000. This is a second-degree felony, carrying a sentence of up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
- Grand Theft in the First Degree: Involves property valued at $100,000 or more or theft of certain specially protected items (like cargo or emergency equipment). A first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Our Martin County grand theft defense lawyer has extensive experience analyzing the details of each charge to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, often uncovering errors in valuation, ownership, or intent that can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal.
Could Everyday Actions Lead to Grand Theft Charges in Martin County, FL?
Grand theft charges in Florida cover a broad range of alleged conduct. Some of the most common examples seen by our grand theft defense attorney in Martin County include:
- Retail theft and shoplifting of high-value items.
- Theft from an employer (embezzlement or misuse of company property).
- Auto theft or unlawful taking of motor vehicles.
- Construction material or equipment theft often involves disputes over ownership.
- Theft of electronics, jewelry, or other personal property valued at $750 or more.
- Receiving or possessing stolen property, even without participating in the initial robbery.
Sometimes, individuals are accused simply because they were nearby or connected to someone who committed the crime. In other cases, misunderstandings about ownership or consent lead to wrongful arrests.
At the Law Office of Denise Miller, our goal is to reveal the whole story and ensure no client is punished for a crime they didn’t commit.
What Are Some Common Legal Defenses for Grand Theft in Martin County, FL?
A grand theft charge doesn’t automatically result in a conviction. Several defenses can be employed to challenge the prosecution’s case. Here are some common defenses used by experienced grand theft defense attorneys in Martin County:
- No Intent to Steal: To be guilty of grand theft, the prosecution must prove that you intended to deprive the rightful owner of their property permanently. If you didn’t have that intent, your Martin County grand theft defense lawyer can argue that the charges should be dropped or reduced.
- Mistaken Identity: It’s not uncommon for someone to be falsely identified as the perpetrator of a theft. If you weren’t the one who committed the crime, your defense attorney can challenge the evidence and point to other potential suspects or inconsistencies in the case.
- Lack of Evidence: The prosecution bears the burden of proof in any criminal case. If there’s insufficient evidence to support the claim that you committed grand theft, your attorney may seek a dismissal of the charges or a favorable verdict at trial.
- Consent of the Owner: In some cases, the property taken may have been given with consent, or you may have had permission to use it temporarily. If this is the case, your grand theft defense attorney in Martin County will demonstrate that no theft took place.
- No Knowledge of the Property’s Stolen Nature: If you didn’t know the property was stolen, you can’t be convicted of grand theft. A strong defense might involve showing that you weren’t aware the property was unlawfully taken, which is often referred to as “receipt of stolen property.”
Grand Theft vs. Petty Theft: Understanding the Difference
While both grand theft and petty theft involve taking someone else’s property, they are classified very differently under Florida law. The key difference lies in the value of the stolen property:
- Grand Theft: Property valued at $750 or more, which can lead to serious criminal charges and long-term consequences.
- Petty Theft: Property valued under $750, which is typically considered a misdemeanor and carries less severe penalties.
Although grand theft is a more serious crime, a Martin County grand theft defense attorney may argue that the value of the stolen property was incorrectly assessed, resulting in a lesser charge of petty theft or a reduction in penalties.
What Happens After Being Arrested for Grand Theft in Martin County, FL?
If you’ve been arrested for grand theft in Martin County, it’s essential to know what to expect throughout the legal process. Here’s an overview of what happens after an arrest:
- Initial Arrest and Booking: After the arrest, you will be booked, and the charges will be formally filed against you.
- Arraignment: The first court appearance, where you will hear the formal charges against you and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Hearings: These are legal proceedings in which both sides argue their positions on issues such as bail, evidence, and legal motions.
- Trial: If a resolution is not reached through negotiation, your case may go to trial, where a judge or jury will decide your fate.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court may impose a sentence that includes jail time, fines, or probation.
A grand theft defense lawyer in Martin County will guide you through each stage of this process, ensuring that you understand your options and that your case is handled with the utmost care.
What to Expect from Our Team at The Law Office of Denise Miller
At the Law Office of Denise Miller, we understand the toll that facing a grand theft charge can take on your life. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the personalized attention and legal support you need during this challenging time. Here’s how we can help:
- Free Consultation: We offer a free initial consultation to discuss the specifics of your case. This allows us to understand your situation and begin strategizing your defense.
- Aggressive Defense: We take an aggressive approach to defending our clients, working hard to secure a favorable outcome, whether through a plea negotiation or at trial.
- Experienced Legal Team: With years of experience handling grand theft cases, our attorneys understand how Florida’s criminal justice system works effectively.
Contact The Law Office of Denise Miller Today
If you are facing grand theft charges in Martin County, don’t wait to seek legal help. Our team at the Law Office of Denise Miller is here to provide the defense you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced grand theft defense attorney in Martin County.
Call us at 803-548-2468 or visit our website to get started with your defense strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions for a Martin County Grand Theft Lawyer:
Can I negotiate a plea deal for grand theft in Martin County?
Yes, plea deals are possible. A Martin County grand theft defense attorney may be able to negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentences, such as probation or community service.
Can a grand theft charge be expunged in Martin County?
If you are acquitted or the charges are dropped, expungement may be an option. However, if convicted, the charge is typically not eligible for expungement.
Will I go to jail if convicted of grand theft in Martin County?
If convicted, jail time is a possibility depending on the degree of the theft. A grand theft defense lawyer in Martin County will fight for alternatives like probation, community service, or a reduced sentence to avoid incarceration.
What happens during a grand theft trial in Martin County?
During a grand theft trial, the prosecution will present its case, and your Martin County grand theft defense attorney will present your defense. The goal is to cast doubt on the evidence or prove that you didn’t commit the crime. The judge or jury will then determine your guilt or innocence.
What is the statute of limitations for grand theft in Martin County?
In Florida, the statute of limitations for grand theft is 5 years. This means charges must be filed within 5 years of the date the theft occurred. If you are accused of grand theft after this time period, The Law Office of Denise Miller can argue that the case should be dismissed due to the statute of limitations.
Can I be convicted of grand theft if the stolen property was damaged or destroyed in Martin County?
Even if the stolen property was damaged or destroyed, you can still be charged with grand theft if the value of the property exceeds $750. However, the extent of the damage may affect the charge or the penalties. A grand theft defense attorney in Martin County can work to present this factor in your defense.
