Understanding The Differences Between Theft, Robbery, And Burglary In Florida: A Guide For Orlando Residents

In this article, you can discover…

• How theft, robbery, and burglary differ in Florida law.
• Differences in charges between crime types.
• The long-term consequences of a conviction, and how an attorney can help you.

What Are The Legal Definitions Of Theft, Robbery And Burglary In Florida, And How Do They Differ?

Theft is when you take something from someone (such as a bike or purse) without their permission. Robbery is when you take something from someone but use force to accomplish it.

For example, if I were to take someone’s wallet from off a table where they’d placed it, this would be theft. But if I push someone to the ground, demand their wallet, and take it from them, that’s robbery.

Burglary involves entering or remaining in a house or premises (such as a garage or office) without the owner’s permission with the intent to commit an offense (such as theft). Burglary can also involve breaking into someone’s car to steal items or money.

How Does The Severity Of Charges Differ Between Robbery And Burglary?

Robbery charges can differ greatly depending on how much force is used to steal the item. One of the least serious charges you could face is known as “robbery by sudden snatching,” which might involve snatching a cell phone from someone’s hand. The amount of force you would need to accomplish this is minimal, and this would be a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, five years of probation, or a $5,000 fine.

But were you to push someone to the ground to steal their cell phone, this now becomes a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, or a $10,000 fine.

If a firearm is used in the robbery, far more serious penalties apply. If a gun is used to hit or beat someone, you’ll be looking at a 10-year mandatory minimum sentence. If the gun goes off, you’ll receive a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years to life.

With burglary, penalties can be impacted by where the burglary took place. Burglarizing a car is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison, five years of probation, or a $5,000 fine.

However, burglarizing a structure (such as a house) is a second-degree felony, punishable by up to 15 years in prison, 15 years of probation, or a $10,000 fine.

Also significant is whether or not a weapon was used in the burglary or whether you stole a weapon in the course of the burglary. In this case, you could be looking at life in prison.

Attorney Michael Barber is a hard-working criminal defense attorney serving Florida. For over 10 years, he’s helped clients just like you protect their Constitutional rights, receive due process, and receive excellent representation.

Have questions, or in need of legal guidance? Reach out to  The Law Office of Michael D. Barber at (407) 890-8472 for an initial consultation today.

What Are The Long-Term Consequences Of A Theft, Robbery, Or Burglary Charge?

Theft, robbery, and burglary are considered crimes of moral turpitude or dishonesty. On top of that, robbery is a violent crime, and having these crimes on your record can seriously impact your ability to get a job, apply successfully to college, apply for a change in immigration status, or find a place to live.

Remember, all of these processes require background checks, and employers, schools, and landlords want to feel safe; a crime of moral turpitude on your record can make it far more difficult for people to trust or feel safe around you.

If you’re facing charges of theft, robbery, or burglary, it’s incredibly important to have an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side. They can help guide you through the legal process and ensure you’re receiving the best possible representation, ideally seeing charges reduced or dismissed.

How I Serve Clients Like You

I do not discriminate against anyone based on the charges they face or the allegations made against them. I view my role as a criminal defense attorney as being a champion of the United States Constitution and the inalienable rights that everyone in this country is entitled to.

One of those rights is the right to be represented by an attorney, to have due process under the law, and to have fair procedure used against you. You have the right to effective legal counsel and a right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, no matter who you are or what you are accused of.

I take my job very seriously. I don’t care if you’re charged with the most minor offense or the most serious offense. I don’t judge my clients and don’t discriminate. The Law Office of Michael D. Barber treats everyone with civility and respect, and I put my full effort into defending every client who comes to me for help.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started? For more information on Theft, Robbery, And Burglary, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (407) 890-8472 today.