Jacksonville Theft Lawyer
Get the Aggressive Defense You Deserve Against Theft Charges
Being charged with theft can be a very serious matter. If you are convicted of theft, you could face serious penalties, including jail time, fines, and a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life.
At McCormick Law, we understand the seriousness of theft charges and the impact a conviction can have on your life. Our Jacksonville theft crime lawyer is committed to providing the aggressive defense you need to fight the charges against you. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.
If you have been charged with theft, call our firm at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online for a free consultation with our attorney. We proudly serve clients throughout Nassau, St. Johns, Clay & Baker Counties.
Types of Theft Crimes and Their Consequences
Florida law defines theft as knowingly obtaining or using the property of another with the intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of the property. Theft can also involve obtaining or using someone else's property with the intent to benefit from it or to allow someone else to benefit from it.
There are several different types of theft crimes in Florida, including:
- Petit Theft: Often referred to as petty theft, this charge applies when the value of the stolen property is less than $750. A first-degree misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, while a second-degree misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 60 days in jail.
- Grand Theft: If the stolen property is valued at $750 or more, the charge escalates to grand theft, a felony offense. The penalties depend on the degree of the felony:
- Third-degree grand theft ($750-$20,000) can result in up to five years in prison.
- Second-degree grand theft ($20,000-$100,000) carries a potential 15-year prison sentence.
- First-degree grand theft (over $100,000) can lead to up to 30 years in prison.
- Retail Theft (Shoplifting): Taking merchandise from a retail store without paying is a common offense. Depending on the value of the goods stolen, charges may range from a misdemeanor to a felony.
- Burglary: Entering a structure or dwelling with the intent to commit theft or another crime inside can lead to felony burglary charges.
- Robbery: Theft involving force, threats, or violence is classified as robbery and carries much harsher penalties than non-violent theft offenses.
- Embezzlement: Misappropriating funds or property entrusted by an employer or organization is considered embezzlement, which is typically charged as a felony.
- Credit Card Fraud and Identity Theft: Using another person's financial information without consent can result in serious fraud charges, carrying significant financial and legal consequences.
Theft crimes can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the value of the property involved and the case's specific circumstances. The penalties for a theft conviction can range from probation and fines to several years in prison.
Defending Against Theft Charges with a Jacksonville Theft Attorney
If you have been charged with theft, there are several defenses that may be available to you. The specific defenses that may be available to you will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Our Jacksonville theft attorney can review the facts of your case and help you determine the best defense strategy to pursue.
In addition to these defenses, it's important to consider factors such as the accused's intent, any possible errors in police procedure, or misunderstandings related to ownership or consent. Our analysis often includes a thorough investigation of evidence, which can lead to uncovering details that form the crux of a strong defense. For instance, challenging the credibility of eyewitnesses or showcasing inconsistencies in their testimonies can be critical in disproving accusations.
Five-Star Reviews See What our Clients Have to Say
Russell B. McCormick Focuses on You, and It Shows in Our Reviews
Read through some of our recent five-star client testimonials below, or call (904) 353-0436 get started with our attorney today.
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"Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me."A friend who went through a similar situation recommended me this Law Office. I was a bit nervous about talking to a lawyer since it was my first time having to need one. Russell B. McCormick was very direct and upfront about everything, laying out all the options available to me. He was also quite accommodating with my work schedule and kept me up to date with anything that came up or that I needed to do. I’m so grateful he was able to reduce my charge, with the eligibility of getting it sealed later on.- Kevin
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"Russell is Amazing!"Russell is Amazing! He handled my son’s case with such professionalism all while having a very calm demeanor. His hard work granted the best results for my son, and we are more than pleased. And I can’t leave out Dorothy! It was a pleasure speaking with her when calling the office Every Time.She was always sweet and made sure to answer any concerns that we had.. Overall I give Russell and his team a A+.. I highly recommend..- Meka B.
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"They were knowledgeable and straight to the point"This firm was well worth it , they were knowledgeable and straight to the point and actually got the job done . Also they respond back to you in a timely manner . I am very appreciative for their service. Now I can move forward in life . Thanks- Deven R.
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"Highly recommend Russell McCormick."Highly recommend Russell McCormick. Upon calling he immediately went to work on my case. He clearly communicated the process and walked me through any questions I had. He was also able to get my sentencing talked down and made the process as painless as it could be. I am so glad he was referred to me!- Rachel B.
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"Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations."Russell was great! this is the second time I have used him and i have to say, I'm impressed. Russell cares and he knows the system. the outcome of my case far surpassed my expectations. I would recommend Russell McCormick to anyone needing legal counsel. After finding Russell, I will never use anyone else for my legal needs!- Luke F.
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Called the McCormick office in trouble, with my freedom on the line. Russell answered the phone himself and confirmed he took on my type of cases. He took my information down and we scheduled a consultation. When I arrived for my consultation, he already had the information about my case,and a plan to come to my defense, already in tow! That made me confident in hiring Russell. However, my case had gotten thrown out (unbeknownst to me) and even though I paid the retainers fee, he sent me a refund.In reality he could have kept it. That right there is why he'll forever be my go to attorney if I needed one. Ready to defend and honest when need be. I appreciate him and Ms Dorothy and highly recommend. Thanks again!- Jones
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"Worth Every Penny!"I cannot say thank you enough to Mr. McCormick and his team. Everyone was amazingly nice and professional and I always got a response in a timely manner. He was worth every penny so I didn’t have to face the court alone.- Amber H.
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"Much Love and Respect for This Man"
Russell is by far the best defense attorney in Jax. He did an amazing job with my case. Has the respect of the state's attorneys and the judges as well, which if you know how the law works is important for your defense.
- Eric G.
Common Defenses Against Theft Charges
- Mistaken Identity: If you have been falsely accused of theft, you may be able to argue that you were not the person who committed the crime. This is a common defense in theft cases, especially when the crime was committed by someone who was wearing a mask or other disguise.
- Consent: If you had the owner’s consent to take the property, you cannot be convicted of theft. This is a common defense in theft cases that involve disputes over ownership.
- Intoxication: If you were intoxicated at the time the theft was committed, you may be able to argue that you did not have the intent to commit the crime. This is a common defense in theft cases that involve shoplifting.
- Entrapment: If you were induced to commit the theft by a law enforcement officer, you may be able to argue that you were entrapped. This is a common defense in theft cases that involve sting operations.
Get the Legal Advice You Need from a Jacksonville Theft Lawyer
If you have been charged with theft, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is vital. Our Jacksonville theft lawyer can review the facts of your case and help you understand your legal options. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Legal procedures in theft-related cases can be complex and require swift action to preserve evidence and construct a compelling narrative in your favor. In many cases, negotiations with the prosecutor can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, which underscores the importance of having skilled legal counsel to advocate on your behalf and navigate these discussions effectively.
Call McCormick Law at (904) 353-0436 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our attorney.
