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Property Crimes
Florida Defense Attorney:
Property crimes—such as burglary, theft, vandalism, arson, and fraud—can have serious legal and financial consequences, whether you’re the victim seeking justice or the accused facing criminal charges. At Crag Chaderton Law, we provide expert legal guidance to protect your rights, whether you need help recovering losses or mounting a strong defense.
Assisting Victims of Property Crime
If you’ve been the victim of a property crime in Florida, our firm can help you navigate the legal system to seek justice and compensation. We assist by:
Reporting the Crime & Working with Law Enforcement
Many property crimes go underreported or inadequately investigated. We can help ensure police take your case seriously, file necessary reports, and gather evidence to support criminal charges against the perpetrator.
Pursuing Criminal Charges & Restitution
Even if prosecutors file charges, victims often struggle to recover stolen property or receive compensation. We work with the State Attorney’s Office to push for restitution—a court-ordered payment from the offender to cover your losses.
Exploring Civil Lawsuits for Compensation
If restitution isn’t enough (or if the criminal case fails), we can file a civil lawsuit against the offender for damages. This can include reimbursement for stolen items, repair costs, and even emotional distress in some cases.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance providers often undervalue claims or deny payouts for property damage or theft. We negotiate with insurers to ensure you receive a fair settlement for your losses.
Defending Those Accused of Property Crimes
If you or a loved one is facing property crime charges, the penalties can be severe—especially for repeat offenses. Florida law imposes harsh sentences, including:
Petty Theft (Under $100): Second-degree misdemeanor (up to 60 days jail).
Grand Theft ($750+): Third-degree felony (up to 5 years prison).
Burglary: Second-degree felony (up to 15 years prison).
Arson: First-degree felony (up to 30 years prison).
How Crag Chaderton Law Builds a Strong Defense
Our attorneys carefully examine the evidence to challenge accusations, including:
False Accusations or Misidentification: Proving you were wrongly accused.
Lack of Intent: Arguing you didn’t knowingly commit a crime (e.g., mistakenly taking property).
Illegal Search & Seizure: Suppressing evidence obtained unlawfully.
Ownership Disputes: Showing you had a legal right to the property in question.
We also negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, diversion programs, or case dismissals when possible.
Why Choose Crag Chaderton Law?
Experienced in both victim advocacy and criminal defense.
Aggressive negotiation with prosecutors and insurers.
Track record of winning acquittals and maximizing compensation.
If you’ve been affected by a property crime—as a victim or defendant—contact Crag Chaderton Law today for a confidential consultation.
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Property Crimes
Crimes that involve interference with another person’s property
Theft Burglary Arson Vandalism Trespassing
How Florida Handles Property Crimes: Laws, Penalties, and Enforcement
Florida treats property crimes seriously, with strict penalties designed to deter theft, vandalism, fraud, and burglary. The state categorizes offenses based on the value of stolen/damaged property, use of force, and the defendant’s criminal history. Below is an in-depth look at how Florida prosecutes and punishes property crimes.
Classification of Property Crimes
Florida law divides property crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties escalating based on:
Dollar value of stolen/damaged property.
Use of force or weapons (e.g., armed burglary vs. simple theft).
Prior convictions (repeat offenders face harsher sentences).
Key Property Crimes in Florida:
Florida’s Tough Sentencing Laws
Florida imposes harsh penalties for property crimes, especially for repeat offenders:
A. Grand Theft Thresholds
3rd-degree felony (
750–
750–20,000) → Up to 5 years.
2nd-degree felony (
20,000–
20,000–100,000) → Up to 15 years.
1st-degree felony ($100,000+) → Up to 30 years.
B. "10-20-Life" Law (For Crimes Involving Firearms)
If a gun is used during a property crime (e.g., armed robbery), mandatory minimums apply:
10 years for brandishing a firearm.
20 years for firing the gun.
25-to-Life if someone is injured/killed.
C. Habitual Offender Laws
3-time felony offenders can face life sentences under Florida’s "Three Strikes" rule.
Prison Releasee Reoffender (PRR) Law – If a felon commits a new property crime within 3 years of release, they face maximum penalties with no early release.
How Crag Chaderton Law Can Help
Whether you’re a victim seeking justice or a defendant fighting charges, our firm provides:
Aggressive defense against theft, burglary, fraud, and vandalism charges.
Restitution recovery for victims.
Plea negotiations to reduce charges.
Civil lawsuits if insurance companies deny claims.
Facing property crime charges in Florida? Contact Crag Chaderton Law for a free case review.
Our Strategy Fighting Against Property Crime Charges
An experienced attorney can fight charges by arguing:
Mistaken identity (wrongly accused).
Lack of intent (no criminal purpose).
Ownership dispute (believed property was theirs).
Illegal search/seizure (evidence thrown out).
False accusations (e.g., revenge claims).
Restitution for Victims
Florida courts require convicted offenders to pay restitution to victims for:
Stolen/damaged property.
Repair costs.
Other financial losses.
If restitution isn’t paid, offenders may face additional jail time.
TIPS On Protecting Your Home
Install strong locks on all doors and windows
Use a deadbolt on entry doors
Add motion-sensor or dusk-to-dawn lights outdoors
Set up a home security system with alarms and cameras
Secure valuables in a hidden safe
Keep shrubs trimmed to eliminate hiding spots Doors & Windows
Reinforce door frames and use strike plates
Use security film or window bars for basement windows
Always lock windows, even upper floors
Dont leave spare keys under doormats or planters Everyday Habits
Lock up before leaving even for a quick trip
Dont advertise vacations on social media
Store tools, ladders, and bikes in a locked garage or shed
Close curtains or blinds at night
If you are the victim of a property crime due to another person’s criminal actions, it is time for you to go after the justice you deserve.
Fortunately, with an experienced lawyer fighting to have you regain your peace of mind, you will not have to handle this complicated legal battle alone.
Rather, once you retain Crag Chaderton Law Attorneys, our legal team can:
Discuss your property crime incident in detail, determine what happened, and determine your legal options.
We will Investigate the incident and find the necessary evidence to show the extent of your damages and who was responsible for the crimes against you.
Hire experts to validate your legal claim, interview witnesses, soliciting experts and gather any financial documentation.
Prepare strong legal arguments and go after those who committed the offence.
Take your case to trial and ensure that the criminals pay for what they have done to you.
Do not wait to go after those who have committed these crimes against you. Get in touch with, CRAG CHADERTON LAW at (407) 301-4042 for your free case evaluation and find out how our team can help you fight for the justice you deserve.
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