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Dealing in Stolen Property Defense Attorney Tampa
Many Florida residents have likely heard the term “dealing in stolen property,” and are aware that this is a crime under Florida law. However, the crime of dealing in stolen property is much broader than many people realize. It isn’t always easy to prove that an accused individual has in fact committed the crime of dealing in stolen property under Florida law.
As such, if you are facing a Florida dealing in stolen property charge, it is imperative that you speak with a Tampa Theft Defense Attorney familiar with serious Florida theft crimes and how these criminal charges are typically dealt with in and around Tampa. As a Tampa Dealing in Stolen Property Attorney, Marc A. Joseph, P.A. not only has the necessary experience to help you fight your Florida dealing in stolen property charge, but he also has the skill and dedication to provide you with well-rounded and thorough legal representation that stands out from the rest. By enlisting the legal services of Tampa Dealing in Stolen Property Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A., you are putting your trust in someone who will ensure your rights and interests are being furthered.
Dealing in Stolen Property in Florida
Under Florida law, dealing in stolen property is considered a felony, and the property at issue can come in many shapes and forms. An individual may be charged with and found guilty of dealing in stolen property if he or she traffics in, or endeavors to traffic in, property that he or she knows or should know was stolen. The term “traffic” includes the sale, purchase transfer, distribution, dispensing, or otherwise disposing of the property in some way. There may be additional ways to “traffic” stolen goods, and this is why a charge of dealing in stolen property can be very serious.
Also, when facing a dealing in stolen property charge in Florida, it is important that you understand what “property” means for purposes of this law in Florida. Property is anything of value and can be tangible or intangible. This essentially means that anything could be considered “property” for purposes of being charged with and potentially convicted of dealing in stolen property in Florida. Property is deemed to be stolen if it has been wrongfully taken in some way or has been wrongfully offered for sale.
Further, if you play more of an active role by initiating, organizing, planning, financing, directing, or supervising the dealing in stolen property, then you may be at risk for much harsher consequences as explained below. A dealing in stolen property charge can range in severity based on the conduct, but because the crime covers a wide array of conduct relating to stolen property, you may be at risk for serious jail time and not even know it. For example, you may have taken something that you either believe is not stolen or has no value at all, but in fact the property is stolen and/or does have value. Regardless of what you believe about your conduct, you could find yourself facing a dealing in stolen property charge in Florida.
Consequences of Dealing in Stolen Property in Florida
As you can see from the information above, a Florida dealing in stolen property criminal charge is not the easiest crime to deal with in Florida. Many Florida statutes are more clear cut when defining specific terms and conduct. However, because dealing in stolen property can occur in so many different ways, accused individuals have a tough fight in proving that they are not guilty. If nearly anything can be considered property and many goods may be considered stolen (even if they are not), prosecutors have wide latitude when pressing charges. All dealing in stolen property charges in Florida are considered felonies.
An individual who is charged with and convicted of dealing in stolen property faces a second degree felony, which carries with it the potential for up to fifteen years in jail and a fine not to exceed $10,000. If the accused allegedly played a more active role by organizing a dealing in stolen property transaction or transactions, he or she faces conviction of a first degree felony, which carries with it the potential for up to thirty years in jail and a fine not to exceed $10,000.
In addition to facing the potential consequences of jail time and the imposition of fines, you will likely be required to pay civil penalties to compensate and/or reimburse the victim whose property was stolen, if such individual(s) can be identified. Further, if convicted, you will have a criminal track record that will not be attractive to many prospective employers, landlords, or educational institutions.
Many Florida residents who have a dealing in stolen property conviction on their record are individuals who do not pose a threat to society. However, because of one bad mistake, such convicted individuals have an uphill battle when trying to move forward in life. Even one criminal conviction can be the deal breaker when a job opportunity comes your way. Perhaps you have all of the required qualifications, great references, and an outstanding interview. But, these positive aspects of your job search may be counteracted by one theft-related felony conviction on your Florida record.
Fighting Your Florida Dealing in Stolen Property Charge
Because your future is at stake, it is crucial that you speak with an attorney right away following arrest if you are facing Florida dealing in stolen property charges. Any felony can have disastrous consequences for your criminal record, but theft-related convictions are particularly concerning because prospective employers (and others) may believe a crime of theft sheds light on the accused individual’s morals and tendency to commit future crimes. As such, the sooner you are able to consult with a Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney, the better off you will be in building your defense to a tough dealing in stolen property charge in Florida.
Marc A. Joseph, P.A. understands that a felony conviction of this caliber can be something that haunts you for years to come. While there are certainly steps you can take to expunge or clear your record in the future, it is best to use all resources possible to fight your criminal charge now in the hopes of avoiding a harsh felony conviction on your record. With the help of Marc A. Joseph, P.A., you are working with an outstanding legal professional who will take all steps necessary to help you move forward with the best chance possible of overcoming your dealing in stolen property charge without a permanent scar to your criminal record.
Similar to a domestic violence charge, dealing in stolen property is a serious theft-related offense in Florida. If you or a loved one is facing a Florida dealing in stolen property charge, you may be dealing with some potentially harsh consequences. Because a dealing in stolen property charge can result in significant jail time and possibly a lifelong criminal track record, it is essential that you work with a highly skilled Tampa Criminal Defense Attorney with the dedication and reputation for success to provide you with high quality legal representation. With more than 15 years of experience, Tampa Dealing in Stolen Property Defense Attorney Marc A. Joseph, P.A. possesses these necessary qualities, and continually helps his clients overcome tough criminal charges. If you would like to discuss your situation with Marc A. Joseph, P.A., contact our office today by calling (813) 234-6374 to schedule your free consultation. Marc A. Joseph, P.A. is available 24/7 to answer your questions and address your concerns.
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