Kendall Dealing in Stolen Property Lawyers: A Complex Area of Criminal Law
Dealing in stolen property can lead to serious criminal charges in Kendall and throughout Florida. While some cases may seem straightforward, there are often complexities surrounding accusations of buying, selling or possessing stolen goods. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help accused individuals understand the law and build the strongest possible defense.
Challenging ‘Knowledge’ That Property Was Stolen
A key element of dealing in stolen property charges is proving the accused individual knew the property was stolen. Absent direct evidence like incriminating statements, prosecutors often rely on circumstantial evidence to establish knowledge.
Defense lawyers may argue there is insufficient evidence to prove knowledge beyond a reasonable doubt. For example, if the accused bought goods at a low price from an unknown seller online, they may credibly claim they did not know the items were stolen.
While ignorance provides no legal excuse for possessing stolen property, it can rebut the prosecution’s claim of knowledge. Skilled criminal defense lawyers understand how to present this defense persuasively at trial.
Using Legal Defenses Like Entrapment
Beyond contesting knowledge, Kendall criminal defense lawyers may raise other legal defenses to defeat dealing in stolen property charges, such as:
- Entrapment: If an undercover officer pressured or induced the accused to buy or sell stolen goods, this may constitute improper entrapment. However, entrapment claims require evidence of overreach by police.
- Duress: If the accused acted under threat to themselves or loved ones, this may excuse otherwise illegal conduct. However, duress defenses face high legal standards.
- Necessity: Defendants could potentially claim they dealt in stolen property out of necessity – for example, pawning a stolen item to buy essential medicine. But necessity defenses are limited to emergency scenarios.
- Mistake of fact: The accused may claim they mistakenly believed the seller rightfully owned the property. If reasonably plausible, this can defeat knowledge of the goods being stolen.
- Invalid search: If police obtained key evidence through an unconstitutional search, defense lawyers can request suppression. This may fatally undermine the prosecution’s case.
- Invalid arrest: Similarly, if the arrest leading to the charges violated the accused’s rights, arrest-based evidence may be suppressible.
An experienced lawyer can assess which defenses are viable and craft the most compelling overall defense strategy.
Fighting Charges at Every Stage
From the initial investigation through sentencing, an aggressive defense lawyer contests dealing in stolen property charges at every opportunity, including:
- Pre-arrest investigation: If police lack probable cause for an arrest, defense lawyers may prevent charges from being filed.
- Pre-trial motions: Counsel may file motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges or otherwise weaken the prosecution’s case pre-trial.
- Plea negotiations: Defense lawyers leverage weaknesses in the state’s case to secure reduced charges or probation through plea deals.
- Trial: Attorneys contest the prosecution’s version of events, cross-examine witnesses, and hold prosecutors to their burden of proof.
- Sentencing: Even after a conviction, lawyers advocate for the lightest possible sentence under the circumstances.
Securing the Best Possible Outcome
When facing dealing in stolen property charges, the defendant’s freedom, finances and reputation hang in the balance. An experienced Kendall criminal defense lawyer fights to secure the best possible outcome, whether that means dismissed charges, an acquittal at trial or a lenient plea deal and sentence.
With deep knowledge of Florida criminal law and procedure, defense lawyers can navigate this complex area to protect the accused’s rights and interests at every stage. Their detailed investigation may uncover important weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. And their skilled courtroom advocacy can win over both judges and juries.
Facing criminal charges is extremely stressful. But an excellent lawyer’s compassionate guidance and fierce representation can help accused individuals stay confident their case is in the best possible hands. With an attorney’s help, dealing in stolen property charges do not have to derail a promising future.