St. Petersburg Theft Crime Attorney

What is Theft?

Theft is more often an impulse, crime of opportunity or unintentional act than a deliberately planned crime. Many people facing theft charges were not aware of all the serious consequences. But it is a crime — maybe even a felony. Now that you have been arrested, you will need skilled representation to undo the damage.

You are in good hands. Tim Hessinger is an experienced criminal defense lawyer and a former prosecutor with the State Attorney's Office. Our firm knows how to cast doubt on the allegations and we are familiar with court programs to avoid jail and a criminal record.

Accused of theft? Schedule your free consultation with The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger.

Theft Charges — What Penalties Are You Facing?

The criminal penalties for theft depend on several factors, including the dollar amount, the type of crime and your criminal history. We can explain whether you are facing a petty theft, a misdemeanor or a felony crime.

The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger has handled all levels of theft charges:

A theft conviction can mean jail, driver's license suspension and a criminal record that affects employment, college or professional licenses.

How is Theft Defined in Florida?

Theft is the use or obtaining of another person's property with the intent to withhold or to take over said property. The intent in theft may be to obtain said property for a temporary or a permanent time period.

Can My Theft Charges Be Defended?

Possible defenses of a theft charge may Include:

• Consent given by the owner of the property
• Involuntary intoxication
• Good faith belief of owning or the right to possess the property

What is the Difference Between Grand Theft and Petty Theft?

What Are The Possible Penalties of Petty Theft?

Those charged for First-Degree or Second-Degree Petty Theft may face:

• Up to 1 year in prison
• Up to a $1,000 fine
• An elevated Third-Degree Felony charge, if charged twice for theft

What Are The Possible Penalties of Grand Theft?

Those charged for First-Degree or Second-Degree Grand Theft may face:

• Up to 30 years in prison
• Up to a $10,000 fine

Limiting the Consequences of Theft Charges

Our goal is have clients walk away from first offense theft charges with no criminal record, if possible. Through diversion programs, charges may be dismissed in exchange for restitution, community service and/or successful probation.

For felony theft and grand theft, our primary emphasis is avoiding jail or prison. If the prosecution cannot connect you to the crime (security cameras, witnesses, stolen property), or if police violated your rights in a search or arrest, we move for dismissal of charges.

Otherwise, we can often negotiate a plea to a misdemeanor offense, or arrange for non-jail alternatives such as community control (house arrest). Tim Hessinger is an experienced criminal trial lawyer who is ready and able to take any case to trial. He has tried almost 200 jury trials collectively.

Contact The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger at (888) 863-7415 or contact us online to discuss theft charges and options in your case. We offer a free initial consultation and accept credit cards.