In Miami, grand theft falls under a special category of crimes labeled “crimes of dishonesty.” Theft is typically defined by law as an unauthorized taking or using of the property of another with the intent to temporarily or permanently relieve the person of the property. Theft is determined to be petit or grand depending on the value of property stolen. In Miami, grand theft is a serious charge that can have lasting consequences on your life, so it’s recommended you seek a Miami Grand theft lawyer to help you with your case.
What constitutes as Grand theft?
A theft is considered grand theft if the property stolen amounts to or exceeds a total value of $300.00 or if the property stolen is a vehicle or firearm. The penalties of grand theft depend on the degree of grand theft committed.
Degrees of Grand Theft
- Grand theft in the 3rd degree is defined as the theft of property valued between $300-20,000.
- Grand theft in the 2nd degree is defined as the theft of property valued between $20,000-100,000.
- Grand theft in the 1st degree is defined as theft of property valued over $100,000.
Penalties of Grand Theft
- Grand theft committed in the 3rd degree is punishable by up to five years in Florida State Prison.
- Grand theft committed in the 2nd degree is punishable by up to fifteen years in Florida State Prison.
- Grand theft committed in the 1st degree is punishable by up to thirty years in Florida State Prison.
Aside from the threat of prison sentences, a grand theft conviction will follow you for the rest of your life making it significantly harder if you’re in the job market or looking for a place to live. Think about it: once you apply for a job, a background check may or may not be issued. If a background check is issued, prospective employers may feel hesitant on hiring you due to your past crimes. Your Grand theft conviction will be a stigma that you carry everywhere you go. You will immediately become suspect to any thefts around your area. If you’ve been charged with grand theft, it’s unwise to face those charges alone.
Hire a Miami Grand Theft Lawyer.
South Florida prosecutors don’t take too kindly to grand theft charges, which is why it’s always recommended for those charged with grand theft to immediately contact a grand theft lawyer in Miami. You may not know all your rights and run the risk of subjecting yourself to an unfair investigation by authorities. You may inadvertently incriminate yourself while trying to defend yourself or allow law enforcement to search your property without a warrant.
You need someone on your side that’s knowledgeable in grand theft law and criminal defense. You need someone who will stand up for you and protect your rights. Timing is essential in these types of cases and the longer you wait the greater the chances of getting convicted. With a grand theft charge, the risks are always high. Don’t leave anything up to chance and hire a grand theft lawyer. Contact us now for a Free Case Evaluation.
