Skip to Content
Top
Backed by 15 Years' Experience
as a Former Prosecutor
Specialized in Criminal Defense

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:

  • 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 (involving hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars)

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?

Petty Theft typically entails the stealing of property valued between less than $100 and $300
Grand Theft typically entails the stealing of property valued above $300

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.


Our Settlements & Verdicts

Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their situations, might be.

  • All charges dropped. 2 Counts Battery
  • Reduced to 3 Counts. Wh/Adj 3 years probation. 5 Counts Possession of Child Pornography
  • Reduced to 2 counts. Wh/Adj and probation. 9 Counts - Possession of Child Pornography.
  • Not Guilty after Jury Trial Aggravated Assault with a Firearm
  • All charges Dropped. Aggravated Assault With Motor Vehicle
  • Reduced to Felony Battery, dismissed, sealed. Aggravated Battery

Why Choose The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger?

  • 15 years experience in the State Attorney's office
  • Confidential, complimentary initial consultations
  • Accepting calls and cases 24 hours a day
  • Exclusively devoted to criminal defense
  • Tried Over 140 Jury Trials
  • Impressive track record of charge reductions, acquittals, and dismissals

Contact Us Today

We’re Ready to Help

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

Hear From Our Happy Clients

At The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "He helped our entire family feel secure"
    Mr Hessinger acted in a professional and competent manor. I felt very secure with him handling my case.
    - Former Client
    "He was professional, patient, knowledgeable, kind, helpful, and compassionate."
    His level of expertise in his field was was above anything I could have imagined.
    - Diane C.
    "Tim is well respected within the legal community."
    It is evident that Tim is well respected within the legal community by the prosecution and the judiciary.
    - Legal Professional
    "We are so grateful beyond words as to hiring such a dedicated attorney who always had our back."
    Tim was always available either by text, call, and email; he always promptly answered our questions as to anything pertaining to our case.
    - Vivianna
    "I was in the most capable hands!"
    From my initial interview to the successful conclusion of my case, Mr. Hessinger was extremely thorough, thoughtful and most of all gave me a sense of security knowing that I was in the most capable of hands.
    - Dave