Select your state

Criminal charges

theft

A person commits the criminal offense (crime) of theft—also known as stealing—by unlawfully taking or appropriating the property of another person or entity with the intent to deprive the owner of the property.

Taking or appropriating property is generally unlawful if it is done without the owner's effective consent—for example, if the property was taken by threat, deception, or extortion.

In Florida, theft is defined under Florida Statutes Section 812.014 as knowingly obtaining or using, or endeavoring to obtain or use, someone else's property with the intent to, either temporarily or permanently, deprive the person or owner of the property or benefit from the property. The severity of the offense can range from petit theft, which typically involves property valued at less than $750, to grand theft for property valued higher. The classification of the theft (first, second, or third-degree felony, or misdemeanor) depends on the value of the property stolen and sometimes the nature of the property itself. Theft by threat, deception, or extortion would also fall under this statute, as these are means by which the property is taken without the owner's effective consent. Penalties for theft can include fines, restitution, and incarceration, and they increase with the severity of the offense.

Legal Articles

State Statutes

Individual & Family Legal Plan

As a LegalFix member, you'll get expert legal services from a local law firm that treats you like an important client. Don't wait—be prepared for life's inevitable legal challenges starting today. And ask your employer, credit union, or membership group about preferred pricing opportunities.

Criminal charges

theft

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Florida State Code

Florida State Code

Criminal charges

theft

Articles