Theft is a very broad criminal charge in Florida, covering any type of stealing not committed with force or fear. That includes everything from shoplifting to fraud to grand theft. Embezzlement is a special kind of theft: theft of property or funds entrusted to you by the owner. As you can imagine, the law mandates a range of penalties, depending on the value of what was allegedly stolen and whether violence was used. Penalties range from probation and fines up to 30 years in prison. Misdemeanor theft defendants also face suspension of their driver's licenses. Special penalties may be added for thefts against people age 65 or older, or thefts taking place during declared state emergencies.

Fortunately, Florida law gives a smart Fort Lauderdale theft defense lawyer multiple potential avenues of defense. Strictly speaking, theft is knowingly taking another person's property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive the victim of that property. To convict you, prosecutors must prove all of those elements: That you knew it was another person's property and that you intended to deprive that person of the property. Furthermore, the range of theft charges available means that defendants may be charged with crimes too harsh to fit the facts, allowing a Naples theft criminal defense attorney to negotiate with prosecutors for a fairer and more accurate charge.

If you're facing theft, embezzlement or fraud charges in South Florida, it pays to get help from a good Miami theft criminal defense attorney right away. Balliro represents clients in all types of theft cases, from petit (petty) theft to grand thefts of $100,000 or more. As with all our cases, we always start theft cases by closely reviewing the charges against our clients, looking for mistakes and flaws in the case that allows us to get the charges dropped or reduced. This also helps us lay the groundwork for a strong defense at trial, if necessary to defend your rights.

Unlike many other Sarasota criminal defense law firms, Balliro is not afraid to go to trial, if that's what it takes to get justice for our clients. We are a group of former public defenders and prosecutors who have taken literally hundreds of cases to trial. Our firm has successfully defended many Floridians from serious criminal charges, and includes experts in biological evidence and cyber crimes. Thanks to our experience, we understand how upsetting a criminal charge can be, which is why we're committed to always being there for our clients and potential clients. You can reach us no matter when you find out that you face legal trouble -- 24 hours a day, seven days a week and every day of the year.

If you or someone you care about is facing charges of theft or embezzlement in Florida, call Balliro today for a free, confidential consultation. You can contact us online or call us toll-free at 1-866-ARRESTED.