Theft & Burglary Defense Attorney in St. Petersburg
Accused of Theft or Burglary in St. Petersburg? We Can Help
When it comes to theft and burglary charges, we understand the serious implications they can have on your life. Our theft lawyers and burglary attorneys in St. Petersburg have a deep understanding of the laws surrounding these offenses and will meticulously analyze the details of your case to build a strong defense strategy.
Whether you have been accused of petty theft, grand theft, burglary, or robbery, we are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for your best interests.
The consequences of a theft or burglary conviction can be severe, including fines, probation, and even imprisonment. However, with the right legal representation, there are often various defense strategies that can be employed to challenge the prosecution's case. Our skilled attorneys are well-versed in the complexities of theft and burglary laws and will explore all possible avenues to build a robust defense on your behalf.
Call (727) 619-1827 or fill out this online form to contact our experienced theft lawyer in St. Petersburg for a confidential consultation. We’re ready to fight for your rights.
Understanding Theft Crimes in Florida
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines theft broadly as unlawfully taking or endeavoring to take the property of another with the intent to either temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of a right to the property or a benefit from it, or to appropriate the property to one's own use or to the use of any person not entitled to it.
The severity of a theft charge largely depends on the value of the property stolen and, in some cases, the nature of the property itself or the method of theft. A qualified theft attorney in St. Petersburg will explain these distinctions clearly.
Categories of Theft Charges:
Petit Theft: This is generally a misdemeanor offense, applied when the value of the property stolen is less than $750.
- Second-Degree Petit Theft: Property valued at less than $100. This is a second-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and a $500 fine.
- First-Degree Petit Theft: Property valued between $100 and $749. This is a first-degree misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Grand Theft: This is a felony offense, occurring when the value of the property stolen is $750 or more, or if certain types of property are stolen regardless of value.
- Third-Degree Grand Theft:
- Property valued between $750 and $19,999.
- Specific types of property, regardless of value, including: a will, codicil, or other testamentary instrument; a firearm; a motor vehicle; a commercially farmed animal; any fire extinguisher; more than 2,000 pieces of citrus fruit; anhydrous ammonia; any amount of a controlled substance.
- This is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine.
- Second-Degree Grand Theft:
- Property valued between $20,000 and $99,999.
- Specific types of property, regardless of value, including: law enforcement equipment, a stop sign, or an amount of a controlled substance exceeding certain thresholds.
- This is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
- First-Degree Grand Theft:
- Property valued at $100,000 or more.
- Specific types of property, regardless of value, including: cargo transported in interstate or foreign commerce if the cargo has a value of $50,000 or more; or if the property is taken from a dwelling and is valued at $50,000 or more.
- This is a first-degree felony, punishable by up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine. Navigating these distinctions requires the focused attention of a dedicated theft attorney in St. Petersburg.
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices?
Experience, Commitment, and Personalized Care
As a former prosecutor, we understand how to build strong cases. Our hands-on approach ensures you’re supported every step of the way.
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Experience That Matters
Led by a former prosecutor, Plotnick Law Offices offers unique insights and strategic advantages for every case. Our deep understanding of the legal system ensures that we can effectively advocate for your rights and best interests.
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Relentless Preparation
Success begins with preparation. We leave no stone unturned when investigating and building your case, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly examined to strengthen your position.
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Hands-On Advocacy
When you choose Plotnick Law Offices, you’ll work directly with an experienced attorney from start to finish. We don’t shuffle clients between attorneys—you’ll always have consistent and reliable guidance.
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Personalized Representation
At Plotnick Law Offices, we prioritize building strong, lasting relationships with our clients. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, ensuring that your case strategy is tailored to achieve the best possible outcome for you.
Vigorous Defense Against Theft & Burglary Charges
When you choose Plotnick Law, you can expect personalized attention and a tailored approach to your case. We take the time to listen to your side of the story, understand your unique circumstances, and identify your goals. Our burglary attorneys and theft lawyers will then develop a comprehensive defense strategy that aligns with your objectives and maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome.
We believe in open and transparent communication with our clients. Throughout the legal process, our dedicated team will keep you informed, explain your options, and provide sound legal advice. We will guide you through each step, from the initial consultation to courtroom representation, ensuring that you are well-prepared and confident in your defense.
Because theft and burglary cases in Pinellas County often move quickly through the system, we act promptly to gather evidence, contact witnesses, and review police reports filed in local courts such as the Pinellas County Justice Center. By taking proactive steps early, our team helps you avoid common pitfalls, such as missing critical deadlines or overlooking potential defenses that could change the direction of your case. A theft lawyer St. Petersburg residents can turn to for guidance will also help you understand how decisions at the first appearance and later hearings may affect your future.
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“I cannot thank you enough for your help, Marc, honestly. I made a stupid mistake and it took you no time to take care of the situation.”- Frank M.
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“I would definitely recommend them to someone in need of any attorney services.”- Priestly V.
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“He is compassionate and helpful.”- Carolyn A.
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“In the end, the result was way over my expectations.”- J. Hughes
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“Quick to respond to communications and always kept me informed during the entire process.”- Michael K.
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“I truly appreciate everything he did and his communication with me was greatly appreciated.”- Tawna L.
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“Nothing is worse than waiting around wondering what’s going to happen to you, which didn’t happen at all after hiring Marc.”- Jared
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“When I tell you they treat you like family, that's no lie!”- Jeffrey B.
Want to learn more about the team behind your case? Visit our About page to meet Marc F. Plotnick and Paul S. Horning, and discover how their experience can make a difference for you.
Common Defenses Against Theft and Burglary Charges
Successfully defending against theft and burglary charges in Florida requires a meticulous examination of facts, focusing on dismantling the prosecution's ability to prove specific criminal intent and unlawful actions. A key strategy involves demonstrating a lack of criminal intent: for theft, arguing you never intended to permanently deprive the owner of a right to the property or genuinely believed you had a right to the property; for burglary, proving you lacked the intent to commit a crime at the moment of unlawful entry or while unlawfully remaining. This includes showing that any taking was accidental, or that entry was for a non-criminal purpose like seeking shelter.
Other common defenses center on challenging the circumstances of the alleged crime and the evidence itself. This includes asserting permission or consent to enter the property, or arguing that the premises were open to the public, which negates the "unlawful entry" element for burglary. Mistaken identity or false accusation is a strong defense for both, often supported by alibi evidence. Attorneys will also challenge the valuation of stolen property to reduce theft charges, and vigorously examine for illegal search and seizure or police misconduct, as any constitutional violations can lead to the suppression of crucial evidence and potentially the dismissal of charges.
About Plotnick Law, Your Theft & Burglary Attorneys in St. Petersburg
Whether you find yourself in need of representation for a criminal defense or family law matter, the team at Plotnick Law, P.A. has the experience and skill necessary to defend your best interests. Our committed St. Petersburg attorneys take the time to understand your unique situation, as well as what you are hoping to achieve, and tailor their legal strategy to help you reach those goals.
We possess a thorough understanding of Florida's intricate theft and burglary statutes, as well as local court procedures and judicial tendencies in St. Petersburg and surrounding areas. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome for you, whether that means a dismissal, reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or an acquittal at trial.
We also recognize that many people facing theft or burglary accusations have never been in the criminal justice system before and may feel overwhelmed by arrest, bond, and court dates at the Pinellas County Justice Center or other local courthouses. From explaining what to expect at arraignment to preparing you for plea negotiations or trial, we walk you through each stage so you can make informed decisions about your case. A burglary lawyer St. Petersburg defendants trust can also advise you on collateral issues like employment, immigration, or professional licensing concerns that may arise from pending charges.
How Theft, Burglary, and Larceny Charges Are Handled
Many people are unsure how their case will move through the system after an arrest for theft, burglary, or larceny, and that uncertainty can be frightening. In St. Petersburg and the rest of Pinellas County, your case typically begins with a first appearance where bond and release conditions are addressed, followed by an arraignment in which you enter a plea. From there, the court sets pretrial dates, and your attorney uses the time in between to request discovery, review evidence, and begin discussing the case with the State Attorney's Office.
Throughout this process, our team focuses on protecting your rights and positioning you for the best possible outcome, whether the allegations involve shoplifting, vehicle burglary, or more serious larceny criminal defense matters. We examine the strength of the State's evidence, including witness statements, surveillance video, and any forensic reports, and then advise you on whether diversion programs, plea negotiations, or a trial strategy may be appropriate. By helping you understand each stage, we make it easier for you to decide how you want to proceed and what risks or benefits are involved with each option.
We also recognize that the consequences of a conviction can extend far beyond any jail time or probation the judge may impose, especially when cases are heard in busy local venues like the Pinellas County Justice Center. A larceny defense lawyer from our firm can counsel you on how a plea or verdict may affect your criminal record, employment opportunities, and eligibility for sealing or expungement in the future. By taking a long-term view of your situation, we help you make choices that protect not only your immediate freedom but also your prospects years down the road.
Why Choose Plotnick Law Offices for Your Defense?
Choosing Plotnick Law Offices ensures you will work with a team committed to personalized, dedicated representation. With over 35 years of combined experience, our lawyers use their background as former prosecutors to provide keen insights and rigorous defenses tailored to the unique aspects of your case. Our commitment to client satisfaction is reflected in our open, transparent communication throughout the legal process.
Trust in Our Experience & Dedication
As a reputable law firm, we pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence, integrity, and professionalism. Our burglary lawyers and theft attorneys have a deep understanding of the legal system and stay up-to-date with the latest laws and precedents to provide you with the highest level of representation. You can trust that we will vigorously advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
Remember, you have the right to a fair trial and the right to defend yourself against the charges you face. With Plotnick Law by your side, you can rest assured that you have a dedicated and skilled team fighting for you every step of the way.
If you are facing theft or burglary charges, you don’t have to face them alone. Contact Plotnick Law today by calling (727) 619-1827 to schedule a confidential consultation. Let our experienced team fight for your rights and deliver the strong defense you deserve.