As Seen On
RT Media Logo
Tampa Bay Times Logo
Fox News Channel Logo
Bradenton Herald logo
Rick Sanchez Podcast
The Sun newspaper logo

Theft Crimes FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about theft crimes in Sarasota, Florida:

  1. What Is the Difference Between Petit Theft and Grand Theft?
  2. What Are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?
  3. Can I Go to Jail for a Theft Crime in Sarasota?
  4. What Should I Do if I Am Charged With a Theft Crime in Sarasota?
  5. Can I Be Charged With Theft If I Did Not Intend to Steal the Property?
  6. Can I Be Charged With Theft for Shoplifting?
  7. Is Identity Theft a Serious Crime in Sarasota?
  8. What Are the Defenses to Theft Charges in Sarasota?
  9. What Is the Statute of Limitations for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?
  10. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Returned the Stolen Property?
  11. What Is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?
  12. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Not Caught in Possession of the Stolen Property?
  13. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Believed the Property Was Abandoned?
  14. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Coerced Into Committing the Crime?
  15. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol at the Time of the Offense?

1. What Is the Difference Between Petit Theft and Grand Theft?

Petit theft involves the theft of property valued at less than $750, and it is classified as a misdemeanor. Grand theft, on the other hand, involves the theft of property valued at $750 or more and is classified as a felony.

Back to Top

2. What Are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?

The penalties for theft crimes 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.

Back to Top

3. Can I Go to Jail for a Theft Crime in Sarasota?

Yes, depending on the severity of the offense and other factors, theft crimes in Sarasota can result in jail time.

Back to Top

4. What Should I Do if I Am Charged With a Theft Crime in Sarasota?

If you are charged with a theft crime in Sarasota, it is important to seek legal representation. An experienced criminal defense attorney at Pallegar Law, PA can help you understand your rights and options and work to defend you against the charges.

Back to Top

5. Can I Be Charged With Theft If I Did Not Intend to Steal the Property?

In some cases, you can be charged with theft even if you did not intend to steal the property. For example, if you mistakenly take someone else's property believing it to be your own, you could still be charged with theft.

Back to Top

6. Can I Be Charged With Theft for Shoplifting?

Yes, shoplifting is a form of theft and can result in criminal charges.

Back to Top

7. Is Identity Theft a Serious Crime in Sarasota?

Yes, identity theft is a serious offense in Sarasota and can result in both criminal charges and civil liabilities.

Back to Top

8. What Are the Defenses to Theft Charges in Sarasota?

Some common defenses to theft charges include lack of intent to steal, mistaken identity, and consent from the owner of the property. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best defense strategy for your case.

Back to Top

9. What Is the Statute of Limitations for Theft Crimes in Sarasota?

The statute of limitations for theft crimes in Florida varies depending on the specific offense and the value of the stolen property. In general, the statute of limitations for felony theft crimes is generally between 3 to 5 years, while for misdemeanor theft crimes, it is typically 1 to 2 years.

Back to Top

10. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Returned the Stolen Property?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you return the stolen property. Returning the property may be a factor that is considered in your case, but it does not necessarily negate the criminal charges.

Back to Top

11. What Is the Difference Between Theft and Robbery?

Theft involves taking someone else's property without their permission. Robbery, on the other hand, involves taking someone else's property through the use of force, violence, or threat.

Back to Top

12. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Not Caught in Possession of the Stolen Property?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you are not caught in possession of the stolen property. The prosecution may rely on other evidence, such as witness testimony or surveillance footage, to prove the theft.

Back to Top

13. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Believed the Property Was Abandoned?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft even if you believed the property was abandoned. In Florida, to be considered abandoned, the property must be left in a place where it is likely to be discovered and with the intent to relinquish ownership.

Back to Top

14. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Coerced Into Committing the Crime?

In some cases, coercion or duress may be a defense to theft charges. If you can show that you were forced or threatened into committing the theft, it may be possible to have the charges reduced or dismissed.

Back to Top

15. Can I Be Charged With Theft if I Was Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol at the Time of the Offense?

Yes, you can still be charged with theft if you were under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the offense. However, intoxication may be a factor that is considered in your case and may affect the severity of the penalties you face. Keep in mind voluntary intoxication is not a defense to a crime, however, involuntary intoxication maybe raised as an affirmative defense.

Back to Top

These are just a few of the common questions people have about theft crimes in Sarasota, Florida. If you have specific questions about your case, it is important to consult with a qualified criminal defense attorney at Pallegar Law, PA by calling 941.893.5816 to schedule a free consultation.

Contact Us

  • Free Consultation - Call 24/7
  • 813-444-3912
  • 941-893-5816

Practice Areas

Thumbtack

Tampa Criminal Defense and DUI Defense Pallegar Law, P.A.

Thumbtack logo

Search

Client Reviews

Pallegar Law, always put my family first, their team always explained things in full detail, and got the very best results possible. They genuinely care. Our family will forever be grateful. Thank you.

Dennis

He took me on and from the word go communicated everything in a timely and professional fashion about how everything is going to be played it; and then delivered word for word. The best part about them apart from their professionalism and efficiency would have to be their honesty which lets you...

Hemant

Excellent communication skills between the staff and client. I always felt I was in the know as to what to expect next. Ajay was up front on possible outcomes of the case and did not promise unrealistic results. Hope to not need them again, but definitely would recommend them.

Steve

Ajay made me feel like I was the only case he had, and that he put all of his time making sure I was properly defended. With Ajay experience I was able to continue my days to days life knowing I was fully taken care of. Thanks to Ajay professionalism and attention to detail all my charges were...

Eric, a Criminal Defense client
View More
Submit a Law Firm Client Review

Contact Us

  1. 1 Free Consultation
  2. 2 Available 24/7
  3. 3 Aggressive Representation

Fill out the contact form or call us at 813-444-3912 or 941-893-5816 to schedule your free consultation.

We Accept Online Payments

Make a Payment