Theft & Property Crimes Attorney in Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Comprehensive Defense Strategies for Florida Theft Charges

Theft and property crimes in Florida carry consequences that extend far beyond fines or jail time. A conviction for even a seemingly minor theft offense can leave a lasting impact on your record, making it more difficult to secure employment, housing, or future opportunities. Whether you’ve been charged with petit theft, shoplifting, or a more serious felony like grand theft or fraud, it’s important to take your situation seriously from the start.



At the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Grossman, LLC, we understand how overwhelming it can feel to be arrested or investigated for theft in Fort Lauderdale or elsewhere in Broward County. With more than three decades of criminal defense experience, our firm is committed to building a strong defense for individuals facing a wide range of theft-related charges.

What Qualifies as Theft in Florida?

Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft occurs when a person knowingly obtains or uses the property of another with the intent to:

• Deprive the other person of a right to the property, or
• Appropriate the property for their own use or the use of another without authorization.

Importantly, you do not have to leave a store or get away with an item for a theft charge to apply. Florida law allows the State to prosecute based on the intent to steal—even if the property is recovered immediately.

Common Types of Theft and Property Crimes in Florida

Theft-related charges can range in severity based on the value of the property involved and whether prior convictions exist. Some of the most common theft and property crime charges include:

• Petit Theft (2nd or 1st Degree Misdemeanor)
  Involves property valued under $750. Can result in jail time, probation, and fines.
• Grand Theft (3rd, 2nd, or 1st Degree Felony)
  Applies to property valued at $750 or more, or items like firearms or vehicles. Penalties can include years in prison and thousands in fines.
• Shoplifting / Retail Theft
  Involves taking merchandise or altering price tags. Often charged as petit theft or grand theft depending on value.
• Dealing in Stolen Property
  A felony offense that can apply even if the person did not commit the original theft.
• Criminal Mischief / Vandalism
  Involves damage to another’s property, with penalties based on the dollar amount of damage.

You Can Be Charged Even If You Didn't “Get Away With It”

One common misconception is that you can’t be charged with theft if you didn’t successfully leave a store or if the item was recovered. That’s not the case in Florida. If you are caught concealing merchandise or attempting to leave without paying, the store may detain you, and the State can still press charges—even if the property was returned unharmed.

Possible Defenses to Theft Charges

A successful defense depends on the details of your case. Some possible legal defenses include:

• Lack of intent to steal
• Mistaken identity or false accusations
• Ownership or legal right to the property
• Illegal search or seizure by law enforcement
• Procedural errors during your arrest or questioning

At the Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Grossman, LLC, we evaluate every angle of the case to determine the most effective approach for dismissal, charge reduction, or case resolution through diversion or pretrial programs (if eligible).

The Long-Term Impact of a Theft Conviction

Even a misdemeanor theft charge can carry serious consequences:

• A permanent criminal record
• Loss of job opportunities or professional licenses
• Immigration complications
• Financial restitution
• Difficulty passing background checks

Because of the nature of theft as a “crime of dishonesty,” convictions are especially damaging when it comes to trust-based roles and future court credibility.

Fort Lauderdale Theft Defense You Can Count On

Every theft case deserves focused legal attention. Whether you’re facing a shoplifting charge or have been accused of a serious property crime like grand theft or fraud, our goal is to help you avoid long-term consequences by building a clear, strategic defense.

We don’t just aim for quick outcomes—we work toward the resolution that best protects your future.

📞 Call for a Free Consultation Today

If you or someone you care about has been arrested for theft in Fort Lauderdale or the surrounding areas, don’t wait to seek help. The earlier we’re involved, the more options we may be able to preserve.

📲 Call (954) 637-1154
💻 Or visit www.jeffgrossmanlaw.com to schedule your free initial consultation