Orlando Theft Defense Attorney

In Florida, “theft” is much more complex than it sounds. It is really an umbrella term which includes a vast array of both misdemeanor and felony offenses. So, these charges often carry significant jail time. Furthermore, like assault, theft is a crime of moral turpitude. These convictions often have long-lasting consequences, even if the amount was rather minuscule.

The experienced attorneys at Sercombe Law use proven methods to deal with theft cases. These methods begin with a diligent work ethic. We get to work quickly and aggressively defend your rights. These methods also involve a keen understanding of the legal issues. We know the law, and we know how to make it work for you.

Nonviolent Theft Crimes in Orange County

Theft is the taking of property with the intent to permanently deprive the owner of the full use of the property. That complex definition includes a wide variety of illegal activities, including:

• Writing a check knowing that there are not enough funds in the account to cover it (“floating” a check is the same thing as issuing a hot check),
• Shoplifting,
• Altering a price tag,
• Returning borrowed or rented property well past the due date,
• Moving an item into the “clearance” bin, and
• Intentionally under-ringing purchases at a register.

Additionally, the defendant need not use force in the taking of property. Threats, lies, and empty promises may all suffice. Note that the force need not be against a person. Moving something from one place to the other is force, in this context.

Theft crimes also involve embezzlement, fraud, bribery, and other “white collar” crimes. These offenses usually involve both taking property (usually money) and dishonesty.

Generally, if the defendant makes restitution, has no criminal record, and committed a misdemeanor-level offense, prosecutors may dismiss the charges. In other situations, an Orlando theft defense attorney may need to take a more aggressive stance. Fortunately, there are a number of possible defenses to both simple theft and white-collar criminal cases.

Orlando Robbery and Burglary Defense Attorney

Burglary and robbery are two examples of violent theft offenses. Even if the defendant did not use a weapon and only stole a minuscule amount of property, like a cell phone, these cases are normally serious felonies.

Essentially, robbery is theft plus the use of force against a person. Injury to the alleged victim is not an element of this offense, and as mentioned above, threats and lies may constitute forcible robbery. Burglary is unlawfully entering a dwelling or other place with the intent to commit a felony. That felony is usually theft.

There are some defenses here as well. Assume Chris goes into David’s house when he is not home to reclaim his stereo. While he is there, Chris also takes a large amount of cash. Legally, Chris may not have burgled David’s house, even though he “broke” into it. He believed the stereo was his, and he did not intend to take the money when he entered David’s house.

The theft umbrella covers some unexpected crimes and does not cover others. If you need an experienced Orlando Theft Defense Attorney, contact Sercombe Law by calling 407-675-6959.