Ocala Theft Offenses Attorney
Theft in Florida Law is used to describe a variety of property crimes, such as stealing, larceny, conversion, and misappropriation. Generally, the term theft involves unauthorized taking or use of another person’s property. In cases involving theft, the prosecutor must establish that the defendant’s intent was to take or use the unauthorized property, depriving the property owner possession or use of the property. Florida law recognizes two (2) distinct types of theft distinguished by the property value petit and grand. Petit theft typically will occur when the property in question’s value is under $300 and will be prosecuted as a misdemeanor while grand will be prosecuted as a felony.
The police want to get my side of the story. Should I speak to them?
A: Prior to speaking with a police officer, you should always consult with an attorney. Typically, the police do not want to get your side of the story, and they’re simply looking for additional evidence to use against you in their criminal investigation.
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Do I have to consent to a request to search my vehicle?
A: You do not have to consent to a search of your vehicle, in fact, if the police have a legal basis to search your vehicle, they will do so without asking for your consent.
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What are the possible ways my case may be resolved?
Typically, criminal cases are resolved in one of the following ways; The State Drops the Charges Being proactive and hiring an experienced defense attorney quickly may led to the State dropping your case. For example, the fact that the police make an arrest does not...
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The victim in my case does not wish to press charges, why do I need an attorney?
If probable cause exists, the police have the right to make an arrest even if an alleged victim does not want to press charges. Similarly, the State can proceed forward with these charges even if the alleged victim does not wish to cooperate or asks that the charges...
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What happens if the police didn’t read me my rights?
On television you typically hear the police advise a person being arrested of their rights (known as Miranda rights) as they are being handcuffed. This is not how it happens in real life. In fact, the police are not required to advise an arrested person of these...
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When are the police allowed to search me?
Typically, the police can only search you or your property if you give consent, there is a search warrant or the search is incident to a lawful arrest. Please note that there are other limited circumstances in which a search may be lawful and that it is important to...
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What is an arraignment?
An arraignment is the procedure where the state attorney announces the formal charges in your case and you enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. At a misdemeanor arraignment, the State may offer you a plea deal and the court will allow you to enter a plea of guilty or...
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What is the difference between a felony and misdemeanor?
In Florida, crimes are ranked in terms of severity and the maximum penalties that may be imposed if an accused is convicted of that particular crime. Misdemeanors are less serious charges and are handled in county court. They are generally punishable by up to one(1)...
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