Four Corners Theft Crime Lawyer

Accused of Theft? Let Our Firm Defend You!

If you are facing theft charges in Four Corners, FL, you may be feeling anxious about what comes next. A conviction for theft can lead to serious penalties, including jail time, steep fines, and a lasting criminal record that can affect your future employment and housing opportunities. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, our experienced theft crime attorneys provide aggressive, strategic defense for clients accused of theft and other property crimes throughout Central Florida.

We understand how stressful and confusing this process can be. Our goal is to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

Call (888) 835-5840 today to schedule a confidential consultation.

What is Theft in Florida?

Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft occurs when someone knowingly obtains, uses, or attempts to obtain or use another person’s property with the intent to:

• Deprive the owner of the property’s benefit or use, or
• Appropriate the property for their own use or for the use of another person not entitled to it.
• In simpler terms, theft is the unlawful taking of property belonging to someone else with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of it.

Florida law covers a wide range of theft-related acts — from shoplifting and embezzlement to grand theft involving high-value property. The severity of a theft charge generally depends on the value of the property and the circumstances surrounding the alleged crime.

Petty vs. Grand Theft

Florida divides theft crimes into two broad categories: petty (petit) theft and grand theft. Understanding the distinction is crucial, as penalties increase significantly with the value of the property stolen.

Petit (Petty) Theft

Petit theft involves the theft of property valued at less than $750. Depending on the value, it may be classified as:

• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: Property valued under $100. Punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
• First-Degree Misdemeanor: Property valued between $100 and $750. Punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.

Even though petit theft may seem minor, a conviction can still lead to a criminal record, driver’s license suspension, and collateral consequences affecting employment and housing.

Grand Theft

Grand theft refers to the theft of property valued at $750 or more and is charged as a felony in Florida. Common examples include stolen vehicles, firearms, or large sums of money.

Grand theft classifications include:

• Third-Degree Felony: Property valued between $750 and $20,000 (up to 5 years in prison and $5,000 in fines).
• Second-Degree Felony: Property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 (up to 15 years in prison and $10,000 in fines).
• First-Degree Felony: Property valued over $100,000 or involving special circumstances such as law enforcement property (up to 30 years in prison and $10,000 in fines).

The distinction between petty and grand theft is not only about value — it also determines whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges, which carry dramatically different long-term implications.

Common Theft Offenses

At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, our attorneys have experience defending clients against a wide range of theft-related charges, including:

• Shoplifting (Retail Theft): Taking merchandise without paying, altering price tags, or switching containers.
• Burglary: Entering a dwelling, structure, or vehicle with intent to commit theft or another crime.
• Robbery: Taking property directly from another person using force, violence, or intimidation.
• Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or assets entrusted to you, often in a workplace setting.
• Auto Theft: Stealing or unlawfully using a vehicle.
• Credit Card or Check Fraud: Using another person’s financial information to obtain money or goods.
• Dealing in Stolen Property: Selling, transporting, or otherwise trafficking in stolen goods.

Each theft charge carries its own set of potential penalties, but all share one thing in common — they can severely damage your personal and professional reputation. Having our Four Corners theft crime lawyer on your side can make a critical difference in how your case unfolds.

Legal Defenses to Theft Charges

Every theft case is unique, and at The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we carefully analyze every detail to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Common legal defenses to theft charges in Florida include:

• Lack of Intent: The state must prove that you intended to deprive the rightful owner of their property. If the taking was accidental or you believed you had permission, the intent element may not be met.
• Mistaken Identity: In many theft cases — especially shoplifting or surveillance-based arrests — mistaken identity plays a major role. We can challenge unclear video evidence, unreliable witnesses, or suggestive lineup procedures.
• Ownership or Rightful Possession: If you genuinely believed that the property belonged to you or that you had a lawful claim to it, your attorney can argue that there was no intent to commit theft.
• Insufficient Evidence: If the prosecution’s evidence is circumstantial, inconsistent, or lacks credibility, we can move to suppress it or argue for a case dismissal.
• Entrapment or Coercion: If law enforcement persuaded or pressured you into committing a crime you would not have otherwise committed, an entrapment defense may apply.

A successful defense can mean reduced charges, a plea to a lesser offense, or even full dismissal — depending on your case’s facts and the skill of your defense attorney.

Theft FAQs

Can a theft charge be dropped in Florida?

Yes. Theft charges can sometimes be dismissed if your lawyer can show lack of intent, insufficient evidence, or procedural errors. In some cases, pretrial diversion programs may also lead to dismissal after completion.

What if it’s my first theft offense?

First-time offenders may qualify for diversion programs or probation instead of jail time. These options may allow you to avoid a permanent conviction.

Will I go to jail for shoplifting in Florida?

It depends on the value of the stolen goods and your prior record. For minor offenses under $100, jail time is unlikely, but repeat offenses or higher-value thefts can result in incarceration.

Can a theft conviction be expunged?

If your case is dismissed or you are acquitted, you may qualify for expungement. However, convictions for theft generally cannot be expunged under Florida law.

Contact a Trusted Four Corners Theft Crime Attorney

If you’ve been accused of theft in Four Corners, FL, your future is on the line — but you don’t have to face it alone. The attorneys at The Law Offices of Justin Rickman have extensive experience defending against both misdemeanor and felony theft charges. We’ll investigate your case, challenge the prosecution’s evidence, and fight to protect your rights at every stage of the process.

Contact The Law Offices of Justin Rickman to learn how we provide the personal attention and honest support you deserve during uncertain times.