Limiting the Consequences of Theft Charges
St. Petersburg, Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers
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 and Donald Kilfin are experienced criminal defense lawyers and former prosecutors. They know how to cast doubt on the allegations and they are familiar with court programs to avoid jail and a criminal record.
Arrested for Theft? Free Consultation
Call our St. Petersburg law firm immediately at (727) 896-1501. We take cases in the Tampa Bay Area (Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco & Manatee Counties).
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 Offices of Timothy Hessinger has handled all levels of theft charges:
- Shoplifting/retail theft
- Felony theft (two prior theft convictions)
- Grand theft (value over $300)
- Receiving stolen property
- Auto theft
- Worthless checks
- "Dine and dash" or gas drive-off
- Burglary
- Theft by embezzlement or fraud
A theft conviction can mean jail, driver's license suspension and a criminal record that affects employment, college or professional licenses.
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).
Contact the Law Offices of Timothy Hessinger at (727) 896-1501 or contact us online to discuss theft charges and options in your case. We offer a free initial consultation, and accept credit cards.
