Criminal Defense Lawyers

Theft, Burglary and Robbery Charges in Florida

Theft, Burglary and Robbery Charges in Florida

Dealing with a theft, burglary or robbery charge in Florida can be scary. These crimes cover everything from shoplifting to home invasions, carrying potentially serious penalties like jail time. Let’s break down what each charge means and what the consequences may be.

Defining Theft, Burglary and Robbery

Theft, burglary and robbery may sound similar but in the eyes of Florida law, they are distinct crimes with different elements that prosecutors must prove.

Theft

Florida defines theft as taking or using someone else’s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of it. Shoplifting, employee theft and pickpocketing are common examples. The value of the stolen property determines whether it is petty theft (under $750) or grand theft (over $750).

Burglary

Burglary requires illegally entering or remaining in a dwelling, structure or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense inside. So burglary includes breaking into homes, stores, cars and more to steal or do harm. Again, charges vary based on factors like whether the structure was occupied.

Robbery

Robbery takes theft a major step further by involving force, violence, assault or putting the victim in fear. The classic “stick em’ up” bank robberies fall under this category in Florida criminal law.

Penalties and Sentences

The penalties for theft, burglary or robbery depend heavily on the degree of the charge and the person’s criminal history. At minimum, these acts may lead to probation or community service. At maximum, offenders can face decades behind bars.

Petty theft under $100 is only a misdemeanor in Florida, with up to one year in jail as punishment. Most other theft cases end up as felonies. Grand theft, burglary and robbery sentences often involve state prison time.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

For example, armed burglary is a first degree felony with up to life imprisonment. Strong arm robbery with no weapon carries up to 15 years behind bars. Even “basic” grand theft can mean five years in prison.

Common Defenses

Fighting back against theft, burglary and robbery charges starts with understanding common defenses that apply. Here are some of the most effective strategies:

Mistaken Identity

Eyewitnesses make mistakes all the time. So misidentification could show someone else committed the crime. Alibis and other evidence can establish the defendant was elsewhere.

Duress

Duress means carrying out an illegal act due to threats of serious harm. So a defendant could admit to the act but claim they faced danger if they did not comply.

Consent

In theft and burglary cases, the defendant may argue the “victim” consented to them borrowing or entering the property. Shared access agreements between roommates, for example, can undermine charges.

Self-Defense

When violence enters the picture, self-defense becomes possible. The accused may say they only used physical force because they reasonably feared for their life and safety. Stand Your Ground laws in Florida strengthen such arguments.

Theft Crime Diversion Programs

First time offenders may have a chance at avoiding formal conviction through pretrial diversion programs. These intervention options require completing probation, restitution payments or rehabilitation classes. Afterwards, the charges get dropped.

Theft diversion is common for juvenile offenders in Florida. But some prosecutor offices extend the opportunity to qualifying adults as well. These programs aim to avoid saddling people with records that hurt job and housing prospects down the road.

Getting an Experienced Lawyer

Don’t go through theft, burglary or robbery accusations alone in Florida. An experienced criminal defense attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify defenses that apply and craft an effective legal strategy. They also advocate for diversion program eligibility or negotiated pleas that minimize penalties.

With the right legal help, many people avoid jail and instead receive probation, community service or pretrial programs. So reach out to a lawyer providing strong representation for accused thieves, burglars and robbers across Florida. The sooner you start fighting the charges, the better.

https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/812.014
https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/810.02 

https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/812.13
https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2021/794.011