Miramar Dealing in Stolen Property Lawyers
If you’ve been accused of dealing in stolen property in Miramar, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. Dealing in stolen property charges can lead to serious penalties if convicted, including hefty fines and even jail time. Let’s take a look at the specific laws regarding dealing in stolen property in Miramar and how a knowledgeable lawyer can defend your rights.
What is Dealing in Stolen Property?
Dealing in stolen property, also known as trafficking in stolen property, refers to buying, selling, receiving, possessing, or even just arranging a sale of property that you know or should know is stolen. Florida statute 812.019 covers the crime of dealing in stolen property.
To be convicted, prosecutors must prove you knew or should have known the property was stolen. This means if you were unknowingly sold stolen goods, you may have a valid defense.
Penalties for Dealing in Stolen Property
Penalties vary based on the dollar value of the stolen property bought or sold:
- Less than $300 – Misdemeanor of the 2nd degree
- $300 to less than $20,000 – Felony of the 3rd degree
- $20,000 to less than $100,000 – Felony of the 2nd degree
- More than $100,000 – Felony of the 1st degree
Misdemeanors carry up to 60 days in jail. Felonies can involve years in prison, hefty fines, and a lifelong criminal record.
Defenses to Dealing in Stolen Property Charges
There are several legal defenses if you’ve been wrongfully accused:
You Didn’t Know the Property Was Stolen
Lack of knowledge is an important defense. If you obtained goods in a legitimate transaction without knowing or having reason to know they were stolen, you may avoid conviction. Your lawyer will look for proof you made reasonable inquiries about the source of the goods before purchasing.
You Were Entrapped
If police coerced you into committing a crime you otherwise wouldn’t have, you may have been entrapped. For example, if an undercover cop pressured you multiple times to buy stolen goods. Your lawyer can argue you only did it due to improper police conduct.
Finding the Right Lawyer for Dealing in Stolen Property Charges
If you are under investigation or facing charges for dealing in stolen property, it’s critical to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side. A knowledgeable attorney will thoroughly examine the evidence and look for any constitutional violations or other sources for reasonable doubt. They may be able to get charges reduced or even dismissed.
When choosing a lawyer, look for someone with extensive experience handling dealing in stolen property and theft crimes. Ask about their specific credentials, case results, and overall success record. Be sure they take the time to understand the details of your case and develop an aggressive legal strategy.
Don’t leave your future to chance. The right lawyer can make all the difference in avoiding harsh penalties for a dealing in stolen property conviction. With an experienced attorney fighting for your rights, you can move forward with confidence knowing your case is in the absolute best hands.