Theft Attorney in Dunedin, Florida

In the state of Florida, theft—obtaining or using another person's property with intent to deprive the owner—is a serious crime that often attracts harsh punishments. Depending on the value of the stolen property, a defendant convicted of theft could face massive fines, lengthy imprisonment, a criminal record, and other devastating, life-changing ramifications. 

If you have been arrested and charged with a theft offense, retaining an aggressive and highly-skilled Florida criminal defense attorney is imperative for detailed guidance. At Venessa Bornost, P.A., I'm dedicated to offering comprehensive legal guidance and reliable representation to clients facing theft charges. 

As your legal counsel, I can thoroughly investigate all of the facts of your case and outline a strong defense strategy to help fight your charges. Using my extensive experience on both sides of the courtroom, I can help dispute the accusations against you and attempt to keep your record as clean as possible. 

My firm—Venessa Bornost, P.A.—is proud to serve clients across Dunedin, Florida, and the surrounding areas of Pasco County and Hillsborough County.

Theft in Florida 

Theft can be described as the act of stealing, taking, or using another person's property without authorization and with the intent to deprive the rightful owner of such property.  

According to Florida law, a person commits theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or to use, another person's property with intent to temporarily or permanently: 

• Deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property. 

• Appropriate the property to their own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property. 

Types of Theft 

In the state of Florida, theft crimes are classified according to the type or value of property stolen. Below are the different types of theft in Florida: 

Petty Theft 

First-Degree Petty Theft — A person may be charged with first-degree petty theft for stealing property valued between $100 and $299. 

Second-Degree Petty Theft — A person may be facing second-degree petty theft charges for stealing property valued at $100 or less. 

Grand Theft 

First-Degree Grand Theft — A person may be facing first-degree grand theft charges for stealing a property valued at $100,000 or more. 

Second-Degree Grand Theft — A person may be charged with second-degree grand theft for stealing a property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 

Third-Degree Grand Theft — A theft crime is considered third-degree grand theft if the property that was stolen is: 

• Valued at between $300 and $20,000 

• A motor vehicle 

• A firearm 

• A stop sign, fire extinguisher, or anhydrous ammonia 

• Any commercially farmed animal 

• A will, codicil, or other testamentary instruments 

If you or someone you know has been arrested and charged with a theft crime, you need to reach out to a skilled Florida criminal defense attorney right away. Your lawyer can enlighten you about the nature of your charges and help determine your best defenses. 

Possible Penalties for Theft Charges 

In Florida, the punishment for theft charges can be far-reaching. Depending on the dollar value or type of property stolen, a theft conviction could potentially result in any of the following penalties and ramifications: 

• Prison sentences (months, years, or decades) 

• Massive fines 

• A criminal record/history 

• Probation 

• Community services 

• Loss of the right to vote during elections 

• Increased difficulty in securing accommodation, employment, education, or public benefits 

• Ineligibility for certain financial loans 

• Increased difficulty in traveling abroad 

A knowledgeable Florida theft defense lawyer can identify possible defenses to your allegations and help you avoid or mitigate the severe consequences of a theft conviction. 

Common Theft Defenses 

The following legal defenses may be used by your attorney to help fight your charges: 

• Acted with the consent of the property owner 

• The property was taken under a good faith belief of having the right to take it 

• There was no intention to steal the property 

• Borrowed the property and intends to return it to the rightful owner 

• Reasonable belief in the truth of threat (for extortion) 

• Entrapment 

• Intoxication 

A trusted defense counsel can investigate every last detail of your case and strategize the best defenses in pursuit of a favorable outcome and a path forward. 

The Importance of Skilled Advocacy 

Theft allegations in Florida could mean devastating, life-long consequences. Navigating the criminal justice system or defending your theft charges without reliable representation could expose you to the risk of suffering the maximum penalties. When facing theft charges, it is paramount that you hire a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for strong guidance. 

At Venessa Bornost, P.A., I have devoted my career to handling criminal cases and defending individuals accused of theft. As your legal counsel, I can evaluate and investigate every aspect of your case and strategize an effective defense to maximize your prospects of the best available outcome. I will help you navigate the Florida criminal justice system and represent you vigorously in every phase of the legal process.