Retail Theft and Petty Theft

At Pallegar Law, P.A. we specialize in representing individuals charged with retail and petty theft in the Tampa Bay area. Our Tampa theft defense attorneys have experience in handling misdemeanor theft and grand theft cases. Theft crimes fall into several categories: Theft of services, thefts occurring in department stores such as Walmart, Dillard’s, or Target.

The crime of theft falls under a highly scrutinized level offense since it is a crime of dishonesty. This means that if you are convicted it can be used against you in both civil and criminal court. Therefore, as your Tampa theft lawyer we do everything possible to avoid a conviction and get your case dismissed when possible.

Since theft crimes fall under the label of crimes of dishonesty, being charged with theft can have a direct impact on your future. Unlike other crimes such as DUI, which charge does not bring the character trait of truthfulness into question, a theft charge does the exact opposite. Being charged with theft can directly affect your ability to find a job or, if you are already working, keep your job if your employer finds out. It can also have an impact on future employment. Like any other crime, it can have an affect on the outcome of applying to rent a house or apartment or even applying for a mortgage. If you plan on working for the government or private sector it could prevent you from getting that job. Therefore, it is important to hire an experienced Tampa theft defense lawyer who specializes in retail theft offenses.

In many instances, most thefts cases we handle occur at department stores and involve thefts under $300.00 classifying the offense as a misdemeanor. We represent first time offenders who qualify for diversion programs. Once successfully completed the case(s) are dismissed.

The taking of merchandise valued under $100.00 (in many cases passing all points of sale or concealing the items in a bag) with the intent to deprive the owner or merchant of the property. Intent is proven by the facts.

The only difference between first and second-degree retail theft in Tampa is the value of the merchandise taken. The elements necessary to prove both are the same. However, to prove first-degree theft the State must prove that the value of the merchandise taken was between $100.00 and $300.00.

Requires the State to prove the same elements as misdemeanor theft. To charge felony grant theft the value of the merchandise taken has to exceed $300.00. The penalties for grand theft can be substantial to include a large fine of up to $5,000.00 and up to 5 years in prison. Although, if you are first time offender charged with grand theft you may qualify for a diversion program resulting in the charges being dismissed. Contact an experienced retail theft attorney today by calling Pallegar Law, P.A. at 813-444-3912 for a free consultation.

If the amount taken exceeds $20,000 but is less than $100,000 you may be charged with grand theft of the second degree. The maximum punishment on most second degree misdemeanors is 15 years in prison.

The amount taken is over $100,000.00 and the maximum penalty is 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.00.

If you or someone you know has been charged with retail theft, contact an aggressive Tampa theft defense attorney in order to fight the charges. Call Pallegar Law, P.A. at 813-444-3912 or 941-893-5816 for help.