Miami Theft Lawyer
As a skilled Miami theft lawyer, Dustin Tischler defends individuals accused of shoplifting and theft across Miami-Dade County. In Florida, these charges can lead to jail time, probation, and a permanent criminal record—even for a first offense. Whether you’re facing accusations of petty theft or grand theft, we fight to protect your freedom, your reputation, and your future.
Understanding Charges for Theft in Florida:
In Florida, theft is legally defined as knowingly obtaining or using someone else’s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of it. Shoplifting is a common form of theft and can range from minor retail incidents to organized retail crime. Charges are classified based on the value of the property stolen and the circumstances of the offense.
Under Florida Statute 812.014, a person commits theft by knowingly obtaining—or even trying to obtain—someone else’s property with the intent to deprive the owner of it, permanently or temporarily.
Retail theft is covered in 812.015 and includes any act that hides or removes merchandise, alters price tags or barcodes, uses antishoplifting devices, or involves coordinating with others in an organized scheme.
Florida Theft Laws & Penalties: A Closer Look
Common theft charges include:
- Petit Theft – Property valued under $750 (misdemeanor or felony based on prior record)
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Grand Theft – Property valued at $750 or more (felony offense)
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Retail Theft / Shoplifting – Taking merchandise without paying
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Scheme to Defraud – Coordinated or repeated theft for financial gain
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Employee Theft / Internal Theft – Stealing from an employer
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Dealing in Stolen Property
Additional enhancements apply if the victim is 65 or older, if multiple thefts are combined, or if you have prior convictions.
Even a shoplifting conviction can result in jail, fines, and long-term consequences, including immigration issues, job loss, and damage to your reputation.
Types of Theft Crimes We Handle in Miami:
At Dustin Tischler Law, we defend clients accused of:
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First-time shoplifting or petty theft
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Repeat theft offenses
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Theft charges involving minors or students
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Theft during retail promotions or high-traffic events
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Organized retail theft or fencing operations
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Employee or internal theft investigations
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Arrested for switching tags, concealing items, or walking out without paying
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False or mistaken identity in shoplifting cases
Every theft case is different—and we take the time to understand the facts, investigate your side of the story, and challenge weak or unlawful evidence.
How Dustin Tischler Can Help With Theft Charges in Miami:
As an experienced theft lawyer Miami, Dustin Tischler focuses on protecting your record and keeping you out of jail. In many cases, we can resolve theft charges without a conviction, particularly for first-time offenders.
We can help by:
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Investigating surveillance, witness statements, and arrest procedures
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Challenging probable cause or intent to steal
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Negotiating for pretrial diversion or civil resolution
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Representing you in court and fighting for case dismissal or reduction
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Protecting your criminal record from long-term consequences
Our goal is to resolve your case discreetly, quickly, and with as little impact on your future as possible.
Defense Strategies From a Miami Theft Lawyer You Can Trust
Theft cases often rely on video evidence, witness reports, or store security personnel—but these can be flawed or misinterpreted. As your criminal defense attorney, Dustin Tischler may use strategies such as:
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Lack of intent – Showing you did not intend to steal (e.g., accidental concealment or distraction)
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Mistaken identity – Challenging store footage or false accusations
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Illegal search or seizure – Suppressing evidence collected without proper legal authority
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Lack of evidence – Arguing there is insufficient proof to support the charge
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Diversion or dismissal – Negotiating alternatives to conviction for eligible clients
We build defense strategies designed to get charges dropped, reduced, or resolved without jail time.
Get Legal Help From a Trusted Miami Theft Attorney
A theft or shoplifting accusation can follow you for life—but with the right legal strategy, you may be able to avoid conviction and protect your record.
At Dustin Tischler Law, we’re committed to defending individuals charged with shoplifting and theft offenses in Miami and throughout South Florida.
Click below to schedule a confidential consultation with a Miami theft lawyer today.
What’s the difference between shoplifting and theft under Florida law?
Under Florida law, shoplifting typically refers to the act of taking merchandise from a store without paying, while theft is a broader term that includes any unauthorized taking of property. Both fall under the category of theft crimes and may be charged as misdemeanors or felonies depending on the value of the item(s).
What are the penalties for shoplifting or petty theft in Miami?
Penalties for shoplifting in Miami can range from fines and community service to jail time, especially for repeat offenders. If the value of the stolen items is under $750, the offense may be charged as petit theft, but higher amounts can result in felony theft charges under Florida Statute §812.014.
Can a Miami theft lawyer help me avoid a conviction?
Yes. A skilled Miami theft lawyer can help by challenging the evidence, negotiating for reduced charges, or pursuing dismissal through diversion programs—especially if it’s your first offense. The right legal strategy can help you avoid a permanent criminal record.
Will shoplifting or theft charges affect my criminal record?
Yes. A theft conviction in Florida is considered a crime of dishonesty and can seriously impact your job prospects, background checks, and future opportunities. That’s why it’s crucial to work with an experienced theft defense attorney in Miami to protect your record.
