West Palm Beach Grand Theft Lawyer

Florida property laws escalate minor citations to life-altering felony charges quickly. A grand theft arrest often shocks employees or shoppers who made a single lapse in judgment. Once the state assigns a high value to the property, you face a serious crime of dishonesty rather than a simple misdemeanor. This classification can trigger immediate termination from your job and create permanent barriers to future employment, housing and professional licensing.

I’m attorney Daniel Lewin, and at The Lewin Law Firm, PLLC, I focus exclusively on criminal defense, so your mistakes do not define you. I understand the fear that follows a first-time arrest, especially for those unfamiliar with the Palm Beach County justice system. By investigating every detail of the state’s evidence, I can look for the best way to avoid a felony conviction and keep your record clean. I will work directly with you to provide the advocacy needed to resolve these charges.

Value Thresholds Determine Charge Severity

The market value of the property — which currently starts at $750 — elevates a theft charge to a felony in Florida. If the items allegedly taken value less than this amount, the state typically charges the case as petit theft, a misdemeanor. However, once the value reaches or exceeds $750, it becomes grand theft. Common scenarios include employee theft of cash or inventory, shoplifting electronics, or taking a smartphone or vehicle. Florida statutes also allow felony charges regardless of value for specific items, such as:

• Firearms
• Motor vehicles
• Fire extinguishers installed for fire prevention

I will analyze the state’s valuation methods to determine if they overcharged you based on inflated replacement costs rather than actual fair market value.

Florida’s Three Felony Degrees For Grand Theft

A grand theft conviction carries penalties that increase based on the total value of the stolen property or specific factors defined by Florida law.

• Third-degree: This common charge involves property valued between $750 and $20,000. It also includes theft of firearms or motor vehicles regardless of value. A conviction carries up to five years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
• Second-degree: This charge applies to property worth between $20,000 and $100,000. It also applies if a person steals law enforcement or emergency medical equipment valued at $300 or more from an authorized vehicle or facility. It carries a maximum of 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
• First-degree: If the property is valued at $100,000 or more, the state charges a first-degree felony. This level also applies if a defendant uses a motor vehicle to assist in the theft and causes more than $1,000 in damage to real property. Conviction can lead to 30 years in prison.

These degrees represent maximum statutory limits. If possible, I will seek a reduction to a lower offense or a dismissal.

Answers To Common Questions

Defending a property crime allegation requires clear information about your legal options in West Palm Beach. I’ve answered some frequently asked questions about theft charges below; while these answers provide a general framework, the specific outcome of your case will depend on the evidence and the prosecutor assigned to your file.

Will I go to jail for a first-time grand theft charge?

While jail is a possibility for any felony, many first-time offenders qualify for diversion programs or probation. I will work to secure these alternatives so you can avoid a permanent criminal record and incarceration.

Can the state reduce or dismiss a grand theft charge?

Yes. I often negotiate for a reduction to petit theft by challenging the state’s evidence or the property valuation. I can also seek a dismissal if the investigation or search violated your Fourth Amendment rights.

Do I have to pay the victim back before my case ends?

Restitution can be a helpful tool when negotiating for a dismissal or a reduced sentence. However, do not make payments or sign admissions of guilt without first discussing the timing with your lawyer.

Protect Your Record

A felony accusation does not have to result in a life-changing conviction. At The Lewin Law Firm, PLLC, I provide the representation needed to address property theft allegations in Palm Beach County. I will investigate your arrest to find legal or procedural errors for your defense. Do not let an allegation ruin your career. Call me at 561-710-2819 or schedule a time to talk about your case today.