Miami Theft Defense Lawyers

We Have Handled Over 10,000 Cases

Under Florida law, larceny is another legal term for theft. Larceny involves unlawfully taking someone else's tangible property. In Florida, larceny falls under the general theft statute. Theft covers a broad range of criminal offenses under Florida law, from simple petit theft to serious felony robbery charges. The most common theft offense is misdemeanor shoplifting, where the property value is less than $300. Shoplifting becomes a felony if the value is $300 or more. Authorities charge most theft offenses based on the value of the property involved.

Theft crimes are considered crimes of dishonesty and can affect your eligibility for jobs or licenses. The effects of a conviction often last long after the criminal case concludes.

Because Florida law includes multiple crimes that qualify as theft, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can explain which theft charges may affect you is invaluable. Call Miami property crime defense attorney E.J Hubbs for more information on robbery, burglary, grand theft auto, or petit theft. Hubbs Law Firm provides guidance on defending against theft charges. We have offices in South Miami on Sunset Drive and in North Miami on 123rd Street, and we handle theft cases throughout Miami-Dade County, in cities such as Coral Gables, South Miami, Pinecrest, Dadeland, Kendall, The Crossings, and Palmetto Bay, Florida.

Our team uses a detailed approach for each theft case. We review reports, examine evidence, and identify opportunities to build a strong defense. We know Miami’s court system thoroughly and stay updated on current prosecution trends in local theft crimes. With experience inside area courtrooms, our attorneys prepare clients for what to expect at each stage of the legal process. We help address concerns about bail, upcoming hearings, and the possible effect of a theft charge on future employment or immigration status.

Call Hubbs Law Firm at (305) 570-4802 now to schedule a free consultation.

Different Kinds of Theft Under Florida Law

Florida Chapter 812 outlines the different kinds of theft offenses.

The most common theft crimes include:

• Robbery § 812.13
• Shoplifting (retail theft) § 812.15
• Petit theft § 812.14
• Embezzlement §812.081
• Dealing in stolen property § 812.019
• Scheme to defraud § 817.034
• Identity theft § 817.568

Elements of Theft Under Fla. Stat. § 812.014

To prove theft under Florida Statute §812.014, the State must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, the following:

• The defendant knowingly and unlawfully obtained, used, or attempted to obtain or use another person's property;
• The defendant intended, either temporarily or permanently, to deprive the victim of the property or the rights to it; or
• The defendant intended to appropriate the property for personal use, or for someone not entitled to it.

The value of the property allegedly stolen determines whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony under Florida law.

Prosecutors in Miami often pursue theft charges aggressively, especially in cases involving tourist hotspots or high-value retailers. Penalties may increase if the offense occurs in busy commercial areas like Brickell, Coconut Grove, or major downtown shopping districts. Early involvement of a theft crime lawyer can clarify your legal position and help protect your rights before your first court appearance. Timely legal advice can help address factors that affect bond and pre-trial release conditions.

Potential Penalties & Collateral Consequences for Theft Crimes

Theft convictions in Florida bring consequences beyond jail or fines. Misdemeanor theft charges may result in probation, community service, or restitution, while felony convictions carry jail sentences and higher fines. In Miami-Dade County, theft of property valued at $750 or more triggers a felony charge and sends the case to a felony division judge at the main courthouse. A conviction or guilty plea creates lasting challenges. A record can make it difficult to find a job, secure housing, or earn professional licenses in Florida. Some theft crimes carry immigration consequences, making matters more complicated for non-citizens. Employers and state agencies may see theft convictions as a sign of dishonesty, limiting future opportunities even after your case is resolved.

Attorneys at Hubbs Law, P.A. walk clients through these risks so they can make informed decisions about their case—especially for those who work in fields like tourism, hospitality, or logistics, where theft convictions can have significant consequences.

What to Expect After a Theft Arrest in Miami

If you are arrested for theft in Miami, you will move through the city’s arrest, processing, and court appearance procedures. Most arrests in Miami-Dade are made by local law enforcement, then the person is booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center or another major jail. After booking, most people have a first appearance hearing within 24 hours. At this hearing, a judge sets bail or release conditions. The judge will consider factors like prior offenses, the value of the property, and the risk that the accused will flee. Miami’s busy court calendar usually means these hearings move quickly.

You will have follow-up court dates at the Richard E. Gerstein Justice Building or another Miami-Dade courthouse. A theft crime attorney can help you stay organized, prepare for deadlines, and represent your interests from the start. Early steps such as what to say in court, how to handle bail, or what evidence to provide can all affect later options for resolving your case or proceeding to trial in Miami courts.

Grand Theft in Miami, Florida

Grand theft is a felony theft offense under Florida law, while misdemeanor theft is called petit theft. Grand theft may be charged as third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree felony, with first-degree as the most serious offense.

Miami law enforcement pays close attention to grand theft cases, especially those involving cargo, electronics, or high-value vehicles. Miami’s role as an international port increases the likelihood of theft crimes involving imported goods or large shipments. If you face grand theft allegations in Miami-Dade County, your defense strategy needs to account for both state and federal crimes interests that could come into play.