Miami-Dade County Theft Crime Attorney

South Florida Theft Crime Lawyer

Theft is a common crime in Florida and the Miami area, with an increase in the last few years. Theft is the taking of something belonging to another without their knowledge or consent. Theft can occur in many ways, by stealing something out of a person's vehicle or breaking into someone's home to steal something. When a theft is committed with the use of a weapon, it becomes a much more serious crime, normally charged as a felony. Let our theft attorneys in Miami help you.

Certain common theft crimes our office can defend you for include:

• Shoplifting
• Embezzlement
• Petty Theft
• Grand Theft
• Grand Theft Auto
• Carjacking
• Burglary
• Robbery
• Armed Robbery
• Identity Theft
• Computer Theft
• Credit Card Fraud

Schedule your free consultation today with a trusted theft attorney in Miami. Call us at (305) 504-6655 or connect online to start building your defense.

What are the Penalties for Theft Crimes in Florida?

There are two categories of theft crimes: petty or grand theft. When a theft involves an item with a value of less than $300, then the crime is considered petty theft. The severity of theft penalties depends on the value of the stolen property, prior convictions, and other aggravating factors. Common penalties include:

Petty Theft

• First-Degree Misdemeanor: For property valued between $100 and $750. Penalties include up to one year in jail, probation, and a fine of up to $1,000.
• Second-Degree Misdemeanor: For property valued at less than $100. Penalties include up to 60 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

Grand Theft

• Third-Degree Felony: For property valued between $750 and $20,000, firearms, motor vehicles, or other specific items. Penalties include up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
• Second-Degree Felony: For property valued between $20,000 and $100,000 or theft involving specific aggravating factors. Penalties include up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• First-Degree Felony: For property valued over $100,000 or theft involving significant damage or harm. Penalties include up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Beyond these criminal penalties, a conviction can also result in restitution orders, mandatory community service, and a permanent criminal record. If you are facing theft charges, contact Miami-Dade County theft crime defense attorney Eric Matheny, who can competently defend you against any charges you may be facing.

What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Florida?

A theft conviction in Florida can have far-reaching consequences beyond fines and imprisonment:

• Employers often conduct background checks, and a theft conviction can make it difficult to secure a job.
• Certain professions may revoke or deny licenses due to a theft conviction.
• Non-citizens may face deportation or other immigration consequences if convicted of theft.
• Landlords may deny housing applications based on criminal records.

Given these potential impacts, it is essential to work with a criminal defense attorney to fight the charges and protect your future.

What are Aggravating Factors in Theft Crime Cases?

Certain circumstances can increase the severity of theft charges, leading to harsher penalties. Examples include:

• Use of Weapons: Theft involving the use or threat of a weapon can result in robbery charges.
• Organized Schemes: Engaging in an organized scheme to defraud may lead to additional charges and penalties.
• Repeat Offenses: Prior theft convictions can result in enhanced penalties, including longer prison sentences and higher fines.

A Miami-Dade County theft crime lawyer can help navigate these complex cases and develop a defense strategy to address any aggravating factors.

How to Beat Theft Charges With a Theft Attorney in Miami?

When facing theft charges, working with a theft attorney in Miami is essential to building a strong defense tailored to your case. Common strategies include challenging the intent to deprive the owner of their property, which is a key element of theft, or addressing issues like mistaken identity in cases where surveillance footage or eyewitness testimony is unreliable. 

If you believed you had ownership or consent to use the property, this can also serve as a valid defense. Other potential defenses may involve proving you acted under coercion or duress or identifying procedural violations by law enforcement, such as unlawful searches or arrests.

Seeking Alternative Resolutions

In some cases, a theft crime attorney may be able to negotiate alternative resolutions to avoid a criminal conviction. These options may include:

• Pretrial Diversion Programs: These programs allow first-time offenders to complete certain requirements, such as community service or counseling, in exchange for dismissal of charges.
• Plea Bargains: Negotiating a plea agreement may result in reduced charges or penalties.
• Restitution Agreements: Repaying the value of the stolen property may lead to a more favorable outcome.

Your Miami-Dade County theft crime attorney can assess your case and determine if alternative resolutions are available.

Juvenile Theft Offenses

Juveniles accused of theft in Florida often face different legal consequences than adults. While the juvenile justice system focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment, a conviction can still impact a young person’s future. A Miami-Dade County theft crime lawyer with experience in juvenile cases can help protect the child’s rights and work toward a favorable outcome, such as a diversion program or reduced charges.

Call (305) 504-6655 today or contact us online to get support from our legal team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Have to Appear in Court For a Theft Charge in Miami?

For most theft charges in Miami, you will need to appear in court at least once, usually for the arraignment and any scheduled hearings. The Miami-Dade court system requires defendants to be present unless their theft attorney in Miami has received approval for their absence or the offense qualifies for certain exceptions. Failing to appear can result in a bench warrant and other negative consequences. An experienced Miami-Dade theft lawyer will guide you through the steps, let you know which hearings require your attendance, and, in some cases, may be able to attend specific hearings on your behalf. Promptly consulting with a qualified theft attorney in Miami after your arrest ensures you remain in compliance with court expectations and avoid pitfalls associated with missed court appearances.

How Does a Theft Conviction Affect My Immigration Status in Miami?

A theft conviction can have very serious immigration consequences for non-citizens living in Miami-Dade County. Theft is viewed as a crime of moral turpitude under U.S. immigration law, and even minor offenses can trigger deportation proceedings or lead to denial of naturalization. Miami’s diverse communities often face these unique legal and immigration issues, so it is essential to work with a theft lawyer in Miami who understands how immigration laws intersect with criminal cases. At The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A., we coordinate with qualified immigration counsel whenever needed, and work diligently to structure case resolutions that minimize or avoid immigration penalties where possible. If you are not a U.S. citizen, fast legal intervention can make the difference in your ability to remain in the United States after a theft arrest in Miami.

Can I Get a Theft Conviction Sealed or Expunged in Miami-Dade County?

Depending on your record and the outcome of your case, you may be eligible to have certain theft-related arrests or charges sealed or expunged in Miami-Dade County. Individuals who completed a diversion program or had their theft charges dismissed may qualify for record sealing or expungement. However, felony theft convictions are generally ineligible under Florida law. The expungement process requires submitting proper documentation to the Miami-Dade Clerk of Courts and meeting specific requirements under Florida statutes. Our firm assists clients each step of the way—reviewing eligibility, preparing petitions, and managing communications with local agencies—to help clear your record and give you a fresh start in Miami.

Contact Our Qualified Theft Defense Attorney Serving Southern Florida

If you are facing theft charges, you are likely feeling stressed and uncertain about what steps to take next. Because the legal consequences can be severe—including jail time, restitution, hefty fines, probation, or court-ordered treatment—it’s important to reach out to The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. for personalized and dedicated criminal defense representation from a seasoned theft attorney in Miami.

Our firm understands the anxiety that often follows an arrest in Miami-Dade County and guides clients through each phase of the criminal justice process. Whether you are appearing for a hearing at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building or dealing with charges from the Miami-Dade State Attorney's Office, our theft lawyer in Miami will ensure that you fully understand your options. We emphasize direct communication, reliable counsel, and an unwavering commitment to defending your reputation and freedom. If you need guidance or want to get started on your defense right away, contact The Law Offices of Eric M. Matheny, P.A. today and let a skilled theft lawyer in Miami work to protect your rights and your future.

Don’t allow a theft charge to threaten your opportunities or freedoms. Our Miami-Dade County theft crime attorney has a strong record of protecting clients’ rights and pursuing the most favorable outcomes. Call us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and see how we can help.

Charged with theft? Let our Miami-Dade County theft defense lawyer defend you. Call (305) 504-6655 today for a free initial consultation about your charges.