Theft Crimes DEFENDERS of Your Rights. Your Life. Your Future.

Theft Crimes

The Morris Law Firm, P.A. can help defend you or your loved one from theft charges. As a former state prosecutor, Attorney Melinda Morris was responsible for prosecuting a range of very serious theft offenses, from investigation through trial. For a Theft lawyer, this inside knowledge is of critical importance in weakening the prosecution’s case and can benefit your defense.

St. Petersburg Theft Defense Attorney

A Theft as defined in Chapter 812 of the Florida Statutes is:

A person commits theft if he or she knowingly obtains or uses, or endeavors to obtain or to use, the property of another with intent to, either temporarily or permanently:

  1. Deprive the other person of a right to the property or a benefit from the property.
  2. Appropriate the property to his or her own use or to the use of any person not entitled to the use of the property.

The Morris Law Firm, P.A. can defend you against various theft offenses, including:

Time is of the essence.

You have a very narrow window of time between when you are arrested and when the State Attorney’s office makes a decision to file a criminal charge against you. Hiring an attorney immediately to negotiate on your behalf gives you the best chance of avoiding criminal charges.

Hire the Morris Law Firm and let us fight for you.

Act now to consult with an attorney and find out how to best protect your rights and future opportunities. Theft consequences can be far reaching, including but not limited to: possible jail time, probation, negatively affecting your employment, military, or academic status; and ineligibility to have your record sealed.

What Happens Next?

You May:

  • Face Jailtime
  • Face probation
  • Face criminal fines in addition to a separate civil penalty sought from the victim
  • Be required to pay restitution
  • Be required to attend shoplifters awareness counseling
  • Be required to attend substance-abuse treatment
  • Be subject to random drug testing
  • Be required to perform community service
  • Have your employment or military service status negatively affected
  • Have a permanent criminal record

Potential Defenses include:

  • Failure to Read Miranda Warnings
  • Illegal Search or Seizure
  • Lack of Intent
  • Alibi
  • Mistaken Identity

Melinda Morris is dedicated to defending clients facing theft charges in St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Dunedin, Largo, Bradenton, Seminole, and nearby areas. She represents both adults and youth who have been arrested for these potentially life-altering charges. Contact the Morris Law Firm, P.A. today and learn more about defense options for your specific situation.

Why Choose Our Law Firm?

See the Difference Our Service Provides
  • FORMER STATE PROSECUTOR

    Melinda Morris is a former prosecutor and has handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation through sentencing enabling us to identify weaknesses in the State’s case against you.

  • STRATEGICALLY AGGRESSIVE

    We never settle for the easiest outcome or the typical result. We know how to negotiate with the State Attorney and we will work to get you the best possible outcome.

  • TRUSTED & EXPERIENCED

    Melinda Morris has practiced criminal law for over 20 years. Our clients trust advice that comes from experience in nearly every type of criminal case.

  • PERSONAL ATTENTION

    We will know every client’s story because we will take the time to listen and understand. You will work with your attorney one-on-one at every stage of the process.

  • PROMPT COMMUNICATION

    You will have the cell phone number of your attorney. Your attorney will directly return your call, email, or text to answer your pressing questions.

  • SAME DAY REPRESENTATION

    The government is wasting no time in trying to prove your guilt, a proactive defense is imperative. Prompt and decisive action from your defense attorney is of critical importance.

Meet the Attorneys

Melinda Morris & Seth Shapiro

Attorney Profiles

Client Testimonials

Hear From Real People We've Helped
    This law firm gives everything they can to help you receive the best possible outcome.

    “Amazing Experience! Highly Recommend!! Not having any idea what the next steps are in a bad situation requires someone with extreme knowledge. I used google to search for a local lawyer and found the ...”

    - Amanda S. on Google
    Go with Seth. You'll be glad you did.

    “Seth's dedication, knowledge of the law, and real world experience make all the difference. Expert help on important, life-altering issues aren't the place to cut corners. Go with Seth. You'll be glad ...”

    - Peter W. on Google
    Goes above and beyond

    “Melinda has represented me on numerous cases and the outcome has always been great. Melinda goes above and beyond to defend your rights and get you the best possible outcome. I highly recommend hiring ...”

    - Shasta on Google
    I researched other lawyers in the area, and none of them compared.

    “Seth Shapiro, and Morris Law Firm in general, are consummate professionals. I researched other lawyers in the area, and none of them compared, both in price and assistance. Seth always made himself ...”

    - Bill P. on Google
    If in doubt about your legal options, it is well worth a call to Morris Law Firm.

    “Seth Shapiro of Morris Law Firm provided accurate and clear outlines of my options and the likely results, on a Saturday no less! Timely communication, answers to my questions and full follow through ...”

    - Scott S. on Google
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