Miami Petit Theft Lawyer

Aggressive Defense also Serving Fort Lauderdale

Petit is used to describe crimes that are figuratively small or minor in nature. Petit theft crimes (also commonly referred to as petty theft) may not sound as severe as criminal charges for grand theft, but a conviction for any kind of a theft crime can have significant long-term consequences, in addition to possible incarceration and fines. Theft convictions can create substantial hardships for individuals when seeking employment or applying for any kind of loans or lines of credit.

If you have been arrested for any kind of alleged petty theft offense, you will want to seek legal representation as soon as possible. The Hoffman Firm aggressively defends clients accused of theft crimes throughout Miami and Fort Lauderdale.

Discuss your case with us today by calling 305-249-0090 if you are Miami. Call 954-524-4474 if you are in Broward County. Your initial consultation is free and confidential.

Florida Petit Theft Misdemeanor Charges

Petty theft crimes are typically classified based on the value of the property that was allegedly stolen. Under Florida Statute § 812.014, petit theft is generally any offense in which the value of the property allegedly stolen is less than $300.

Depending on the specific value of the property involved, an alleged offender could face:

• Petit Theft of the Second Degree — When stolen property is valued at less than $100, the offense is a second degree misdemeanor punishable by up to 60 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $500
• Petit Theft of the First Degree — When stolen property is valued at $100 or more but less than $300, the offense is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000

It is important to note that an alleged offender who commits petit theft and has a previous theft conviction can face first degree misdemeanor charges, even if the property involved in the offense was valued at less than $100.