St. Petersburg Theft Lawyer

In St. Petersburg, theft charges can range from petit theft and shoplifting to more serious offenses like grand theft, burglary, or dealing in stolen property. The penalties you face depend on the value of the stolen items and the details of your case. Even a minor theft charge can lead to jail time, fines, and a criminal record.

At Lopez Law Group, our skilled St. Petersburg theft lawyers are ready to handle every step of your case. When you’re arrested, we investigate the facts, protect your rights, and develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your situation. We handle all court filings, speak with prosecutors, and fight for reduced or dismissed charges whenever possible. You don’t have to face a theft charge alone—our experienced team is here to guide you and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

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St. Petersburg Theft Guide

• Why Select Us?
• Common Theft Charges in St. Petersburg
• Potential Penalties for a Theft Conviction in St. Petersburg
• Collateral Consequences of a St. Petersburg Theft Conviction
• Best Legal Defenses to a Theft Charge in St. Petersburg
• How We Can Handle Your St. Petersburg Theft Case for You
• Most Important Steps to Take if You’re Arrested on a Theft Charge in St. Petersburg
• Speak with an Experienced St. Petersburg Theft Lawyer Today

Why Select Us?

At Lopez Law Group, we proudly serve individuals facing theft charges in St. Petersburg by offering personalized, strategic legal representation. We understand that every case is unique, which is why we provide a customized legal plan based on your specific needs and best interests.

Treating you as an individual—not just another case—we take the time to understand your situation and goals. Our team brings flexibility, a strong work ethic, and unwavering determination to every case, working hard to protect your rights and reputation with distinction. We are also fully responsive to each client’s needs, making sure you are informed, supported, and heard throughout the entire legal process. When you’re facing a theft charge in St. Petersburg, you can count on the Lopez Law Group to stand by your side and fight for the best possible outcome.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with an experienced St. Petersburg theft attorney, please call us at (727) 933-0015 or contact us online for more information. 

You can see our most recent client reviews and case testimonials on this site. Our office is conveniently located at 700 7th Ave N, Suite A, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.  

Potential Penalties for a Theft Conviction in St. Petersburg

If you are convicted of theft in St. Petersburg, Florida, the penalties you face will depend on the type and severity of the theft offense. Florida law divides theft into two main categories: petit theft and grand theft. Each carries different levels of punishment based on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the crime.

Petit theft is the least serious theft charge, but it still carries serious penalties. If the value of the stolen property is less than $100, it is a second-degree misdemeanor. This charge can result in up to 60 days in jail, a $500 fine, and six months of probation. If the property is valued between $100 and $750, it becomes a first-degree misdemeanor. A conviction for first-degree petit theft can lead to up to one year in jail, a $1,000 fine, and one year of probation.

Grand theft involves property worth $750 or more and is classified as a felony. If the property is valued between $750 and $20,000, it is a third-degree felony. Penalties for this charge include up to 5 years in prison, a $5,000 fine, and 5 years of probation. If the value is between $20,000 and $100,000, it is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, a $10,000 fine, and 15 years of probation. For property worth more than $100,000, the charge becomes a first-degree felony, which can result in up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

Other theft-related crimes, like burglary or dealing in stolen property, also carry felony-level penalties. Burglary charges can range from a third-degree felony up to a first-degree felony, depending on whether the building was occupied and if the offender was armed. Dealing in stolen property is typically charged as a second-degree felony, with penalties similar to those for grand theft.

The court may also order you to pay restitution, which means reimbursing the victim for the value of the stolen property.

Collateral Consequences of a St. Petersburg Theft Conviction 

In St. Petersburg, Florida, a theft conviction can lead to more than just jail time, probation, or fines. It can also result in collateral consequences, which are long-term effects that impact your life even after you’ve completed your sentence. These consequences can affect your ability to work, go to school, and participate fully in society.

• One of the biggest consequences is damage to your employment opportunities. Many employers run background checks, and a theft conviction—especially one involving dishonesty—can make it harder to get hired. Employers may be hesitant to trust someone with a criminal record involving stolen property, especially for jobs that involve handling money or valuable items.

• A theft conviction can also affect your housing options. Landlords often check criminal records, and some may deny rental applications if they see a theft-related offense. This can make it difficult to find safe and affordable housing, especially if you’re trying to rebuild your life after a conviction.

• If you are planning to attend college or apply for student financial aid, a theft conviction might create problems. Some educational institutions may deny admission to applicants with certain criminal convictions. Also, depending on the details of the case, you may lose eligibility for federal student aid, such as grants or loans.

• Another collateral consequence is the impact on your immigration status if you are not a U.S. citizen. Theft is considered a “crime of moral turpitude,” which means it can lead to deportation, denial of a visa, or loss of permanent resident status.

• You may also lose certain civil rights, depending on the severity of the charge. Felony convictions in Florida can lead to the loss of the right to vote, serve on a jury, or own a firearm.

While these consequences are not part of your official sentence, they can still affect your future in serious ways.

Best Legal Defenses to a Theft Charge in St. Petersburg

If you are facing a theft charge in St. Petersburg, Florida, you may be able to raise one or more legal defenses to fight the accusation.

One common defense is a lack of intent. Theft is a crime that requires intent. This means the prosecution must prove that you knowingly and intentionally took property that didn’t belong to you. If you accidentally took something—like leaving a store with an item you forgot to pay for—you may be able to argue that you didn’t intend to steal.

Another defense is mistaken identity. If someone wrongly accused you or misidentified you as the person who committed the theft, this could be a powerful defense. This often happens when the theft occurred in a crowded area or when surveillance video is blurry or unclear.

You may also be able to argue that you had a legal right or ownership claim to the property. If you believed the item belonged to you—or you had permission to take it—you might be able to avoid conviction by showing you had a good faith belief that you had the right to the property.

In some cases, consent can be a strong defense. If the property owner gave you permission to use or borrow the item, even informally, this could prevent the state from proving that the taking was unlawful.

Another defense involves a lack of evidence. The prosecution has the burden of proving the theft beyond a reasonable doubt. If the evidence against you is weak, missing, or based on unreliable witnesses, you can argue that the case should be dismissed.

In rare cases, a defense like entrapment may apply. This happens when law enforcement persuades or pressures someone into committing a crime they wouldn’t normally commit. Raising the right legal defense can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal or reduced charge.

How We Can Handle Your St. Petersburg Theft Case for You

At Lopez Law Group, our experienced St. Petersburg theft attorneys are ready to handle every part of your criminal case from start to finish. We understand how stressful and overwhelming it can be to face theft charges, and we are here to protect your rights and guide you through the legal process with confidence and care.

From the moment you contact us, we begin by investigating the facts of your case. We review police reports, examine any evidence, and speak with witnesses to build a strong defense. Whether you are facing a charge of petit theft, grand theft, shoplifting, or a related offense, our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to respond quickly and effectively.

Our legal team will also handle all court filings, motions, and hearings, making sure your case is handled properly at every stage. We will work to have charges reduced or dismissed whenever possible, and if your case goes to trial, we will present a strong, clear defense in court.

We also negotiate directly with prosecutors to seek favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges, pretrial diversion, or probation instead of jail. We take the time to explain your legal options so you can make informed decisions about your future.

Throughout the process, we are committed to open communication, keeping you informed and answering your questions every step of the way. We understand that your case is more than just a file—it’s your life.

At Lopez Law Group, we have a strong track record of helping clients in St. Petersburg fight theft charges and move forward with their lives. If you’ve been accused of theft, you don’t have to face it alone. Our experienced attorneys will stand by your side and fight for the best possible result in your case.

Most Important Steps to Take if You’re Arrested on a Theft Charge in St. Petersburg

If you are arrested on a theft charge in St. Petersburg, Florida, taking the right steps early on can make a big difference in how your case turns out. Staying calm and knowing what to do next is key.

First, contact our experienced St. Petersburg theft lawyers at Lopez Law Group as soon as possible. We can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and begin building a defense strategy right away. The sooner you get legal help, the better your chances of a positive outcome.

Next, be sure to attend all court appearances and follow any instructions from the court. Missing a court date can lead to more charges or a warrant for your arrest.

You should also gather any documents or evidence that might support your defense. This could include receipts, text messages, or contact information for witnesses who can speak on your behalf.

Finally, avoid discussing your case with anyone other than our attorneys. Following these important steps will help you protect your future and give us the best chance to fight your charges.

Speak with an Experienced St. Petersburg Theft Lawyer Today

At Lopez Law Group, our attorneys welcome the opportunity to fight for your rights and work toward the best possible result in your criminal case.

For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable St. Petersburg criminal defense attorney, please call us at (727) 933-0015 or contact us online.

CALL FOR A CASE EVALUATION

Lopez Law Group – St. Petersburg Office

Address: 700 7th Ave N, Suite A, St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Contact No: 866-530-7411