Miami Grand Theft Lawyer

Miami Grand Theft Attorney

Being charged with any crime can be a terrifying experience. You may feel overwhelmed with the seriousness of the charges, the penalties that may come with a guilty verdict, and the process of finding an attorney. Grand theft allegations can carry consequences that are far-reaching. As a Miami grand theft lawyer, Barry M. Wax is prepared to stand by your side, offering prudent counsel and experienced advocacy.

About Barry M. Wax, Attorney at Law: Accomplished Miami Grand Theft Defense Attorney

Barry M. Wax has been working with the people of Florida since 1985, providing advocacy and defense for clients across a broad spectrum of charges. With extensive experience in the state and federal court systems, he is an active member of the legal community who regularly advocates for defendants and works to educate the public about their rights. Contact Law Offices of Barry M. Wax, today to learn more about how we can defend you and your freedom.

What Is Grand Theft in Miami, Florida?

Grand theft laws are articulated in Miami, which defines theft as the illegal taking of property with the clear intent to deprive a person of it unlawfully. In the state of Florida, this offense counts as grand theft if the property taken is at or above the value of $750.

This can include the act of physically removing an item, concealing or transferring property, or using someone else’s property without their permission.

In Florida, grand theft may be considered a felony. The penalties for being found guilty of this crime depend on the circumstances of the alleged incident, which affect how the charge is classified. Typically, the degrees of grand theft are considered:

• Third degree: This charge is usually assigned to thefts between $750 and $19,999. If found guilty, there is the possibility of up to five years in prison, as well as additional fines and stipulations.
• Second degree: This typically applies to thefts that range between $20,000 and $99,999 of stolen property. Prison time for a guilty verdict can be up to fifteen years, in addition to additional fines and conditions.
• First degree: This is reserved for thefts of property that amount to $100,000 or more. A guilty verdict, in addition to fines and other requirements, can carry up to 30 years in prison.

What the Prosecution Must Prove to Secure a Conviction in Grand Theft Cases

Grand theft is known as a crime of “specific intent.” This means it must be proven that the accused had a clear intention of theft, and this led to their explicitly unlawful actions. The prosecution must show a clear connection between the “mental element” of the crime (mens rea) and the physical act of the crime itself (actus reus).

These two categories are further divided into “unconditional” and “conditional” intent. Unconditional intent is when a person has made a clear and firm decision to commit the act of theft. Conditional intent, however, refers to a situation where the intent to steal is not clear or firm, and the act is, therefore, highly dependent on context.

These distinctions matter when it comes to the prosecution of grand theft charges. In 2011, for example, charges against a Miami public official, Michelle Spence-Jones, were dismissed due to the prosecution failing to establish a lack of intent on their part.

In addition to these conditions, the valuation of property must be proven to qualify for charges of grand theft. Without this evidence, the charge cannot stand. In determining the value of the stolen property, the prosecution will likely consider several things, including the market value, original purchase price, and retail or speculative cost of the property.

Common Defense Strategies for Grand Theft Charges in Miami, FL

While grand theft charges may be intimidating, it should be remembered that it is not an uncommon allegation. In 2023, there were over 10,000 instances of theft in Miami. The charge of grand theft requires a high burden of proof on the part of the prosecution, but there are several ways to build a strong defense. Some often-employed strategies include defenses that argue:

• Lack of intent: Establishing intent is crucial in a grand theft charge. If it can be shown that the accused lacked the intention of theft, this can greatly strengthen a defense.
• Taking or using the property for lawful purposes: It can be argued that the defendant had a legal right to take or use the property in question, or that their assumption as such was reasonable.
• Consent: Showing that the accused had the consent of the complainant to use the property can effectively undermine the prosecution’s case. This situation is not uncommon in the realm of misunderstandings and commonplace confusion.
• Mistake of fact: Confusion over consent could also be argued as a mistake of fact. When a mistaken assumption of consent is shown to be reasonable, the criminal intent is undermined in the eyes of the law.

While the above strategies and others may prove effective in building a defense, there are a few things to avoid as well. When facing allegations of grand theft, it’s important that you do not comment about the event or post about it online. Likewise, showing remorse only after accusations have been levelled or after you learn of the attending penalties can look suspect to litigators and juries.

Regardless of the defensive strategies taken, it is critical to hire a criminal defense lawyer in Miami with significant litigation experience. Effective counsel should understand the specifics of your case and the complexities of litigation.

Why Choose Barry M. Wax, Attorney at Law, for Your Grand Theft Case?

With over 30 years of litigation experience serving the people of Florida, Barry M. Wax has stood by clients facing both state and federal charges. As a Miami grand theft attorney, he has broad experience defending clients, providing vigorous advocacy in defense of their rights.

Criminal Defense Matter Types We Handle

Our firm provides expert legal representation for the following specific criminal defense matters:

• Miami Federal Criminal Defense Lawyer – Aggressive defense against federal charges requiring sophisticated understanding of federal criminal procedure, sentencing guidelines, and complex federal litigation strategies
• Miami White Collar Crime Attorney – Strategic representation for professionals facing fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and other non-violent financial crimes that threaten careers and freedom
• Miami Healthcare Medicare Fraud Attorney – Specialized defense for healthcare providers accused of Medicare fraud, billing irregularities, and other healthcare-related federal charges
• Miami Pharmaceutical Fraud Defense Lawyer – Expert representation for pharmaceutical professionals facing clinical trial fraud, off-label marketing allegations, and other drug-related federal charges
• Miami Money Laundering Lawyer – Sophisticated defense against complex money laundering charges involving cryptocurrency, international transactions, and federal financial crime allegations
• Miami Drug Crime Lawyer – Comprehensive representation for possession, distribution, and manufacturing charges involving controlled substances under state and federal law
• Miami Drug Trafficking Lawyer – Aggressive defense against serious drug trafficking charges carrying mandatory minimum sentences and severe federal penalties
• Miami Domestic Violence Lawyer – Dedicated representation for domestic violence accusations that threaten your freedom, reputation, and family relationships
• Miami Violent Crime Lawyer – Strategic defense for assault, robbery, and other violent crime charges carrying substantial prison sentences
• Miami Sex Crime Lawyer – Discreet and aggressive representation for sensitive sexual offense allegations that carry lifelong consequences, including sex offender registration
• Miami Grand Theft Lawyer – Skilled defense for theft charges involving property valued over statutory thresholds, including organized retail theft and sophisticated property crimes
• Miami Professional License Defense Lawyer – Comprehensive protection for licensed professionals facing disciplinary actions, license suspensions, or revocations due to criminal charges or ethical violations
• Miami Unlicensed Contractor Attorney – Defense representation for contractors accused of operating without proper licensure or violating Florida contractor regulations

This is not a comprehensive list. We defend all criminal charges, whether in state or federal court. If you don’t see your charges above, get in touch with the Law Offices of Barry M. Wax today for more information.

Barry M. Wax understands that communication with his clients is critical, and he is prepared to offer compassionate counsel on how to approach grand theft charges. Whether you are facing first or third-degree felony charges, he is prepared to use his extensive experience to stand with you and provide the advocacy you deserve. Choosing Barry M. Wax may be the difference between a successful defense and the most severe penalties possible.

FAQs About Miami, FL Grand Theft Law

How Much Money Is Considered Grand Theft in Florida?

In Florida, the valuation of $750 of stolen property is the lower limit for grand theft charges. Often charged as a felony, the higher the value of the property allegedly stolen, the more severe the charge. Each carries different penalties, with third-degree charges carrying the possibility of five years in prison, while first-degree convictions may result in a sentence of thirty years.

What Needs to Be Proven in Grand Theft Cases?

Due to its designation as a “special intent” crime, there are several things that need to be proven in grand theft cases. Prosecuting attorneys need to demonstrate that the accused had a clear intention of theft, and this intention led to a conscious act of theft. In addition, the valuation of the property must be shown to be at or above the limit of $750.

How Do I Beat Grand Theft Charges?

While there is no one way to “beat” grand theft charges, there are several defense strategies that may prove effective. One of the most common is to challenge the alleged intent put forth by the plaintiff. If it can be shown that the accused lacked the intention to steal the property, either through a reasonable belief that they shared the property, owned the property themselves, or had the consent of the plaintiff, this can prove an effective defense.

What Qualities Should a Grand Theft Lawyer Have?

A grand theft lawyer should have several qualities to be able to assist their clients effectively. It is critical that they possess experience within the field of criminal litigation. They should have a proven track record of defending clients in grand theft cases and be able to communicate positive options for defense strategies. They should be familiar with Florida and Miami grand theft laws and use this knowledge to provide a robust defense to the accused.

Contact Barry M. Wax, Attorney at Law, Today – Hire a Grand Theft Lawyer

Facing grand theft charges can upend your life. However, with the proper counsel and a vigorous defense, the possibility of a positive outcome increases dramatically. One study found that over a five-year period, instances of convictions with jail time for non-violent felonies fell by around 8%.

Whether you are facing a lesser felony charge or a third-degree grand theft accusation, Barry M. Wax, Attorney at Law, is prepared to offer a consultation and guide you toward a strong defense. We can fight your charges and seek reduced penalties to protect your freedom, reputation, and well-being. There is no reason to face litigation alone. Contact us today for a consultation and learn how we can help you defend your rights.

Serving Miami and South Florida

When you’re facing criminal charges in Miami or throughout South Florida, your future, freedom, and reputation hang in the balance. At the Law Offices of Barry M. Wax, you won’t be just another case number in an overcrowded firm—you’ll receive personal attention from an experienced attorney who has dedicated nearly four decades to defending the accused with both skill and genuine compassion. Since beginning practice in 1985, Barry M. Wax has built his entire career on a simple but powerful principle: providing 100% dedicated focus on your individual needs, because every case matters profoundly to the person standing accused.

Based in Miami and serving clients throughout South Florida—from Brickell and Miami Beach to Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, and Weston—Barry M. Wax brings the invaluable perspective gained from his early years as an Assistant Public Defender with the Miami-Dade County Public Defender’s office. During those formative years, he witnessed how under-informed clients often made critical errors in their own defense simply because they didn’t understand the system. That experience taught him that open, honest attorney-client relationships based on mutual understanding consistently yield the most favorable outcomes, and this philosophy has guided his practice ever since.

Whether you’re confronting federal white-collar charges, state drug offenses, accusations of healthcare fraud, domestic violence allegations, or any criminal matter in South Florida, partnering with a Miami criminal defense attorney who personally handles every case—rather than delegating to inexperienced associates—and who combines decades of courtroom experience with genuine accessibility and compassionate guidance can be the difference between making critical mistakes in your defense and achieving the best possible resolution to protect your future.

Miami, FL Criminal Defense Law Resources:

• White Collar vs. Blue vs. Green: Understanding the Colors of Crime in Florida
• Federal Conspiracy Charges & How to Defend in Florida
• How to Find the Best Federal Defense Lawyer in Miami, FL
• Federal Criminal Laws and Penalties Explained
• A Step-by-Step Guide to Federal Grand Jury Proceedings
• What Should I Look for in a Miami Criminal Defense Attorney?
• Federal Healthcare Fraud Statute of Limitations
• Understanding Federal Sentencing Guidelines
• Common Hollywood Myths About Criminal Defense – Don’t Listen to the Movies