Florida Theft & Robbery Statutes

Experienced Broward County Criminal Defense Lawyer Dedicated to Aggressively Defending Clients Facing Serious Felony Charges

In Florida, theft and robbery are serious crimes with equally serious consequences, although the punishments for these crimes vary significantly based on the details of each case. At Lowry Legal, we understand the complexities of Florida theft & robbery statutes, and we’re here to help you protect your rights. Attorney Mark Lowry is a Broward County criminal defense lawyer with extensive experience defending clients charged with theft and robbery crimes and knows what it takes to secure the best possible result.

Florida’s Theft Law

Florida law defines theft as the act of knowingly obtaining or using someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of their rights to it. The severity of a theft charge largely depends on the value of the property involved.

In Florida, theft offenses are categorized based on the monetary value of the stolen items:

• Petit Theft: If the value of the property is below $750, it is classified as petit theft, a misdemeanor. Petit theft is further divided into two degrees, with the punishment ranging from fines to short-term imprisonment, based on your prior convictions, if any.
• Grand Theft: When the value of the property is $750 or more, the crime becomes grand theft, a felony in Florida. Grand theft is divided into three degrees:
  • Third-Degree Grand Theft: For property valued between $750 and $20,000, punishable by up to five years in prison.
  • Second-Degree Grand Theft: For property valued between $20,000 and $100,000, punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
  • First-Degree Grand Theft: For property valued over $100,000, punishable by up to 30 years in prison.

In addition to the penalties, a grand theft conviction can lead to long-term consequences, including a criminal record that impacts future employment opportunities and other areas of life. However, misdemeanor convictions can also have a lasting impact on your employment opportunities, as employers are permitted to reject candidates based on a misdemeanor conviction.

Florida’s Robbery Law

Robbery, unlike theft, involves the use of force, violence, or intimidation to take property directly from another person. In Florida, robbery is always considered a felony. Unlike theft, the seriousness of a robbery charge doesn’t depend on the value of the items allegedly taken. Instead, the degree of the robbery charge is influenced by factors such as the type of force used, the presence of weapons, and the severity of any injuries caused.

• Robbery (Second-Degree): A robbery without a weapon is generally considered a second-degree felony. This charge carries a potential penalty of up to 15 years in prison.
• Armed Robbery (First-Degree): When a weapon is involved, the offense is classified as a first-degree felony. This charge is among the most severe, with penalties including up to life in prison, particularly if a firearm is used.
• Home-Invasion Robbery: Entering someone’s home to commit robbery is classified separately and often results in heightened penalties. This type of robbery is a first-degree felony in Florida and can carry a life sentence, depending on the circumstances.

A robbery charge is extremely serious; however, with the right approach, many robbery charges can be reduced or dismissed through the use of defenses such as mistaken identity, lack of intent, or insufficient evidence.

Speak with an Experienced Broward County Theft Crimes Lawyer to Get Started on Your Defense

Being charged with theft or robbery is serious, and a conviction could impact your life for years to come. At Lowry Legal, we are here to ensure you have a strong defense for your theft, robbery, and burglary charges in Broward County and beyond. Our team understands the importance of providing personalized guidance and keeping you informed every step of the way.

If you are facing a theft or robbery charge, you don’t have to go through it alone. With our Broward County theft crimes lawyer by your side, you’ll have an advocate who can help you understand your rights, evaluate the details of your case, and fight for the best possible outcome. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call Lowry Legal at 954-908-6222 or connect with us through our secure online contact form. We proudly serve clients throughout Broward County including Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Lauderdale Lakes, Lauderhill, Lighthouse Point, Miramar, North Lauderdale, Oakland Park, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, Pompano Beach, and Sunrise.