Property Crimes
Property crimes are offenses involving the unlawful taking, destruction, or damaging of another person’s property without their consent. These crimes are typically nonviolent (do not include force or threats against a person) but can still carry serious legal consequences under Florida law.
Defense Attorneys for Property Crimes in Jacksonville, FL
The criminal defense attorneys at Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite represent clients across the Jacksonville area facing a wide range of property crime charges.
If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation, it’s critical to speak with a lawyer before talking to law enforcement. We’re here to help you understand your rights and build a strong defense based on the facts of your case.
We offer confidential consultations at any of our three office locations around Jacksonville. Contact us today by calling (904) 619-1386 to schedule your appointment and get the legal guidance you need.
The most common types of property crimes in Florida that our attorneys see are theft, fraud, criminal mischief, burglary, and arson.
Depending on the type of offense, property crimes can be prosecuted at either a misdemeanor or a felony level.
Misdemeanor vs. Felony Charges
Whether a property crime is charged as a misdemeanor or felony often depends on the type of offense and the value of the property involved. For example, theft of property valued under $750 is usually classified as petit theft, a misdemeanor. If the value is $750 or more, or if the person has prior theft convictions, the charge may be elevated to grand theft, a felony.
Certain crimes like burglary are always charged as felonies under Florida law, with harsher penalties if the offense involves an occupied structure, a dwelling, or if tools were used to commit the crime.
Common Types of Property Crimes We See
Florida law covers a wide range of property crimes, many of which vary in severity depending on the circumstances and value involved. At Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, we routinely defend clients facing these charges in Jacksonville and surrounding Duval, St. Johns, Clay, and Nassau counties.
Below are some of the most common types of property offenses we handle.
Theft Offenses
- Petit theft: Property valued under $750; usually a misdemeanor
- Grand theft: Property valued at $750 or more, or specific types of protected property; felony
- Retail theft/shoplifting: Taking, altering, or removing merchandise; charges increase with value or use of tools
More information about Theft Offenses ➔
Burglary Offenses
- Burglary of a dwelling: Unlawful entry into a home with criminal intent; always a felony
- Burglary of a structure or vehicle: Entry into non-residential property or vehicles with intent to commit a crime
- Possession of burglary tools: Having tools with intent to use them in a burglary (a felony under Florida Statute 810.06)
More information about Burglary Offenses ➔
Criminal Mischief & Arson
- Criminal mischief: Willful property damage; penalties depend on the dollar amount of the damage
- Arson: Intentional fire or explosion damaging property
- Burning to defraud: Setting fire to property to collect insurance (a felony under Florida Statute 817.233)
More information about Criminal Mischief ➔
More information about Arson ➔
Trespass Charges
- Trespass in a structure or conveyance: Unauthorized entry or refusal to leave when asked
- Trespass on school grounds: Being on school property without permission; enhanced penalties for repeat or disruptive conduct
More information about Tresspass Charges ➔
How Property Crimes Are Prosecuted in Florida
Property crimes in Florida are governed by specific statutes, for example Section 806.13 (criminal mischief), 810.08 (trespass), and 817.03 (fraudulent financial statements).
Florida uses a Criminal Punishment Code scoresheet to assign points based on the severity of the offense, which can lead to mandatory prison time, even for first-time offenders.
Additional enhancements may apply if the crime involved a dwelling, resulted in significant damage, or posed a risk to public safety.
Factors That Influence Charges
- Property value: Higher value increases the charge severity
- Location: Crimes in school zones or occupied dwellings carry harsher penalties
- Use of tools: Burglary tools can elevate charges
- Prior convictions: Repeat offenses often result in felony enhancements
Why Choose Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite
Local Experience
Our firm is based in Jacksonville and serves clients throughout Duval, St. Johns, Clay, and Nassau Counties. We understand how local prosecutors pursue property crime cases and use that insight to your advantage in and out of court.
Focus on Results
We take a strategic, client-focused approach to every case. While no attorney can guarantee a specific outcome, we are committed to:
- Identifying legal weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
- Protecting your constitutional rights
- Fighting for the best possible resolution based on your circumstances
Your future matters – and we treat it that way.
Call for a Confidential Consultation
Arrested or under investigation for a property crime in Jacksonville? Contact the experienced team at Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite for a confidential consultation.
We’ll review your case, explain your legal options, and help you take the next step.
Don’t navigate the criminal justice system alone – we’re here to advocate for you.