Theft, Fraud and Shoplifting Lawyer

Orlando, Orange County, Seminole, Osceola, & Central Florida

What penalties could I receive for shoplifting?

That will partly depend on your own background and any criminal history. It can also depend on the value of the goods stolen and where this happened. Some shop owners and businesses are very vigorous in pursuing shoplifting charges.

If the value of the stolen goods was less than $300, it will be a misdemeanor offense, and if this was a first time offense, you could potentially have the charges if you are eligible for a diversion program.

However, if there’s a history of shoplifting, or if the stolen goods were worth more than $300, charges and penalties can be more harsh. The charge of grand theft is a felony crime. They can bring jail time, fines, community service and other penalties. The more prior offenses there are, the stiffer the penalties can be. Some Felony Theft charges may also be dropped if you are eligible for a diversion program.

Can my Florida drivers’ license be suspended following a theft conviction?

Yes. If you are convicted of theft in Florida, a judge can order the suspension of your license by the Department of Motor Vehicles.

Let the Central Florida Theft Lawyers at The Umansky Law Firm help you!

Is a “kleptomania” diagnosis useful in theft defense?

“Kleptomania” is a real mental disorder describing a compulsion to steal. Kleptomania may be discussed in instances of multiple offenses. Although the courts tend to impose harsher fines and sentences on repeat offenders, a medical expert (psychologist or psychiatrist) who can testify on the defendant’s behalf may help lessen the charges or secure alternative consequences such as counseling and group therapy.

Will I be charged with a misdemeanor or felony?

Your case could depend on the nature of the crime; evidence secured, and defense positioning. Generally, a misdemeanor is filed if the crime falls under the category of petty/petit theft, meaning the value of items taken is under $300.

A felony is filed if the items are valued over $300. This is not a hard and fast rule, however. If felony charges were initially filed, an experienced Central Florida Shoplifting Attorney may be able to negotiate to get you a misdemeanor charge in exchange for an apology, restitution program participation, probation, community service, etc. If you are a repeat offender, a misdemeanor under some circumstances can actually become a felony charge. Your Umansky theft attorney team will do everything we can to minimize your charges and criminal consequences.

What are some alternative sentences for theft crimes?

An experienced Orlando Florida Theft Lawyer can use creative legal strategies to negotiate alternative consequences for your theft punishment. Acceptable alternatives are often well received if positioned in a manner that is seen to benefit the government, the victim and the accused.

Our theft and shoplifting attorneys will work hard to convince the prosecution and judge to give our clients the opportunities they deserve. Alternative sentences are especially beneficial to first time offenders who would suffer a permanent scar on their record with jail or prison time or conviction.

Alternatives to jail time or conviction may include:

• Diversion program that leads to dismissal of charges
• Withholding of adjudication
• Community service
• Drug or alcohol rehabilitation
• Psychological therapy or counseling
• Probation
• Restitution (repayment)
• House arrest
• Electronic monitoring

A theft charge can destroy your career and reputation. Hire an experienced, compassionate and yet aggressive Florida theft and shoplifting attorney at The Umansky Law Firm. Contact our Central Florida Shoplifting Attorneys today for a free personal case evaluation in Orlando or Central Florida.