Overview
Theft, robbery and related charges
Theft allegations can range from minor accusations to more serious property cases. The label on the charge is only the starting point — what matters is what the evidence actually shows.
Many theft cases turn on questions of intent: what someone meant to do, what they understood at the time, and how the situation unfolded. These are exactly the kinds of questions a careful review is designed to address.
Liberate Legal helps clients understand what's really at stake, examine the underlying facts, and approach the case with a clear strategy.
Common Situations
Situations we typically see
- Petit theft and shoplifting allegations
- Grand theft cases involving higher-value items
- Robbery and carjacking allegations
- Burglary allegations involving an unlawful entry
- Allegations involving an employer or workplace
- Disputes about intent or knowledge
- Restitution requests
- Charges that may affect a professional record
What's at Stake
What a theft conviction can affect
The impact of these cases often reaches further than the courtroom. Common considerations include:
- Your criminal record
- Current and future employment
- Professional licensing
- Reputation in your community
- Restitution and financial impact
- Housing and educational opportunities
What To Do Next
First steps after a theft accusation
- Preserve receipts, messages, photos, and any records related to the incident.
- Avoid discussing the case publicly or on social media.
- Do not contact the alleged victim or any witnesses directly.
- Keep court paperwork and notices organized in one place.
- Speak with counsel before making statements or decisions about resolution.
Avoid
Mistakes to avoid
- Trying to explain the situation directly to the alleged victim.
- Volunteering statements to investigators without guidance.
- Assuming a first-time allegation will resolve itself.
- Treating restitution as the end of the matter without legal review.
- Posting about the incident or the case online.
When To Call
When to speak with counsel
- You've been arrested, cited, or interviewed about a theft allegation.
- An employer is involved or considering action.
- Restitution is being requested.
- You're unsure what charge has actually been filed.
- You're concerned about employment, licensing, or background-check impact.
How We Help
How Liberate Legal can help
Every case is different. Liberate Legal helps clients:
- Review the police report, statements, and any video or documentation.
- Examine intent, ownership, and value questions carefully.
- Communicate with the court and prosecutors on your behalf.
- Identify resolutions that take long-term consequences into account.
- Help you make informed decisions at every stage of the case.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, petit theft generally involves property valued under $750. Grand theft starts at $750 and is divided into degrees based on value and other factors — third degree ($750–$19,999), second degree ($20,000–$99,999), and first degree ($100,000 or more, or certain specific categories of property). The exact classification also depends on the type of property involved.
Theft-related allegations can have employment consequences depending on the field and the outcome. Counsel can walk through the realistic considerations.
Intent is often central in theft cases. Sharing the full context with your attorney early helps shape how the case is approached.
Restitution can be part of a resolution, but it doesn't automatically resolve the criminal case. It's worth understanding the full picture before agreeing to anything.
Possible record relief depends on the disposition, the rules in your jurisdiction, and your overall history. Counsel can review what may be realistic for your situation.
Generally no. Direct contact can complicate the case. It's better to let counsel handle communications.
Yes. Under Florida Statute § 812.13, robbery is classified as a form of theft committed with force, violence, or the threat of force — and carjacking is treated the same way when the property taken is a motor vehicle. Liberate Legal handles these matters.
No — they're related but legally distinct. Theft, under Florida Statute § 812.014, is about unlawfully taking someone else's property. Burglary, under Florida Statute § 810.02, is about unlawfully entering or remaining in a structure, dwelling, or conveyance with the intent to commit an offense inside — the entry itself is the core of the charge, whether or not anything was actually taken. The two are often charged together. Liberate Legal handles burglary allegations as part of its property crime defense work.
This information is for general educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand how the law may apply to your specific situation.
