If you’ve been arrested for grand theft, you may be unsure of what to do next. Whatever you do, don’t fight the charge alone. Seeking the assistance of an experienced grand theft attorney in Tampa will ensure your rights, freedom, and future are protected.
Grand theft is illegally taking property that is valued at more than $300. Charges and penalties will vary based on the value of the property taken:
1st Degree Grand Theft: Theft of property valued at more than $100,000. Penalties include up to 30 years in prison, up to 30 years of probation, and a fine up to $10,000.
2nd Degree Grand Theft: Stolen property valued at $20,000 but less than $100,000, which carries a prison sentence of up to 15 years, probation up to 15 years, and a fine up to $10,000.
3rd Degree Grand Theft: Theft of property valued at $300 but less than $20,000 which carries a penalty of up to 5 years in prison, 5 years probation, and a fine of up to $5000.
Guilt is determined based on whether the defendant took property from another person with the intent to either deprive the person of a right to the property or benefit of the property or to appropriate the property for personal use or for the use of another person not entitled to the use of the property.
Defenses for grand theft charges include:
Lack of Intent: If the accused believes in good faith that the property in question was actually theirs or jointly theirs, then it may be proven that there was no intent to deprive the other party of the property.
Consent: If the accused believes that the owner of the property had given them permission to take the property.
False Accusation: The accused asserts that they had no involvement in the crime.
Petty Theft: The stolen property may actually be valued below the statutory level of what is classified as grand theft, which can lead to a reduction in charges.
The quality of your defense will make a world of difference in the type of charge and conviction you receive—the more valuable the theft, the more severe the penalties. It’s critical that you hire a skilled grand theft attorney in Tampa who cares about your future and works diligently to ensure you will receive the best outcome for your case.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.