Petit Theft

At Pallegar Law, PA we represent clients who are charged with theft crimes. In Sarasota, Florida, theft crimes encompass a range of offenses involving the unlawful taking of someone else's property. These crimes are taken seriously and can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Here is an overview of theft crimes and their potential consequences in Sarasota:

1. Petit Theft: This offense involves the theft of property valued at less than $750. It is classified as a misdemeanor in Florida. Petit theft can result in penalties such as fines, community service, and possibly jail time, depending on the circumstances.
2. Grand Theft: Grand theft involves the theft of property valued at $750 or more. It is considered a felony in Florida and can result in harsher penalties than petit theft. The severity of the penalties depends on the value of the stolen property and other factors such as prior criminal history.
3. Retail Theft: Also known as shoplifting, retail theft involves the theft of merchandise from a retail establishment. Retail theft can be charged as either petit theft or grand theft, depending on the value of the stolen goods.
4. Robbery: Robbery involves the use of force, violence, or threat to take property from another person. It is a serious felony offense in Florida and can result in significant prison time, especially if a weapon was used during the commission of the crime.
5. Burglary: Burglary involves entering a structure with the intent to commit a theft or other felony. Burglary is also a felony offense in Florida and can result in substantial penalties, including imprisonment.
6. Identity Theft: Identity theft involves the unauthorized use of someone else's personal information for financial gain. It is a serious offense in Florida and can result in both criminal charges and civil liabilities.
7. Penalties: The penalties for theft crimes in Sarasota vary depending on the specific offense, the value of the stolen property, and the defendant's criminal history. In general, theft crimes can result in fines, probation, community service, and imprisonment.
8. Consequences of a Theft Conviction: A conviction for theft in Sarasota can have serious consequences beyond fines and potential jail time. It can also result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect your ability to find employment, housing, and obtain certain licenses or certifications.
9. Enhanced Penalties for Repeat Offenders: Repeat theft offenders in Sarasota may face enhanced penalties. For example, a second conviction for a subsequent petit theft offense is can be enhanced and charged as a felony, even if the value of the stolen property is below $750.
10. Civil Liability for Theft: In addition to criminal penalties, a person convicted of theft in Sarasota may also face civil liability. This means that the victim of the theft may be able to sue the offender for damages, such as the value of the stolen property or other losses suffered as a result of the theft.
11. Restitution: Courts in Sarasota may order a person convicted of theft to pay restitution to the victim. This is intended to compensate the victim for any losses they suffered as a result of the theft, such as the value of the stolen property or expenses incurred as a result of the theft.
12. Defenses to Theft Charges: There are several defenses that may be used to fight theft charges in Sarasota, including lack of intent, mistaken identity, and consent. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best defense strategy for your case.
13. Pretrial Diversion Programs: In some cases, first-time offenders may be eligible for pretrial diversion programs in Sarasota. These programs allow the offender to avoid a criminal record by completing certain requirements, such as community service or restitution to the victim.
14. Seeking Legal Help: If you are facing theft charges in Sarasota, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A qualified criminal defense attorney at can review the details of your case, explain your rights and options, and help you build a strong defense strategy.

In conclusion, theft crimes in Sarasota, Florida, are taken seriously and can result in significant penalties. If you are facing theft charges, it is important to contact an experienced theft crimes attorney by calling Pallegar Law, PA at 941.893.5816 to understand your rights and options.