If you were arrested for shoplifting, you could face criminal charges and prosecution for theft. Depending on the value of the items allegedly stolen, you could be charged with either petit theft or grand theft.
There are several ways an experienced Attorney at Leifert & Leifert could help, from protecting your legal rights to fighting for an optimal outcome in your case. Depending on the details of your case, a Broward County shoplifting Lawyer could possibly fight for a reduction in charges or file a motion for dismissal. To get started on your case, call today to schedule a consultation.
Laws Prohibiting Shoplifting in Broward County
Shoplifting is categorized as a type of theft under Florida Statute § 812.014, which defines theft as knowingly obtaining or using property belonging to another person or entity with the intent to deprive that person or entity of the property. In the case of shoplifting, the property being taken is merchandise offered for sale at a retail store.
Depending on the value of the stolen merchandise, shoplifting offenses are charged as different degrees of either petty theft or felony grand theft. Petit theft shoplifting occurs when merchandise valued at $300 or less is stolen, while felony grand theft shoplifting occurs when the merchandise stolen is valued at over $300.
Legal Penalties for Shoplifting in Broward County
The penalties for petit theft shoplifting in the first degree includes a Jail sentence of up to one year and a $1,000 fine. The penalties for petit theft shoplifting in the second degree involves a Jail sentence of up to 60 days and a $500 fine.
Grand theft shoplifting in the first degree is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 30 years and a $10,000 fine. The penalties for grand theft in the second degree include a person sentence of up to 15 years and a $10,000 fine. Grand theft offenses in the third degree are punishable by a prison sentence of up to five years and a $5,000 fine.
The penalties imposed upon conviction could be more severe if an individual has prior convictions for shoplifting. A Broward County shoplifting Lawyer could provide more information about the severity of the penalties that could be imposed in situations involving prior convictions.
Speak with a Broward County Shoplifting Attorney
Fighting shoplifting charges is not a simple undertaking, especially if you happen to have any prior convictions. Rather than trying to take on the difficult task of defending yourself, let a Broward County shoplifting Lawyer who is familiar with shoplifting laws and the legal system represent you. An Attorney could recommend the best course of action to take in your case.
An Attorney could determine the best approach to adopt in fighting to obtain the best possible result for you. Additionally, an Attorney at Leifert & Leifert could also protect your legal rights while providing you with the professional representation you deserve. Speak with a Broward County shoplifting Attorney about your case right away. Doing so could help you obtain a favorable outcome.
