Protect Your Record After a Theft Charge

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law defends clients charged with theft and property crimes in Clearwater and surrounding areas.

A theft charge affects more than your immediate freedom. You may lose your job, face difficulty renting an apartment, or struggle to obtain professional licenses even after serving your sentence. In Clearwater and across Pinellas County, theft charges range from petit theft involving items under a certain dollar amount to grand theft involving vehicles, electronics, or other high-value property. Shoplifting cases often begin with store security detaining you and calling law enforcement, while other theft charges may involve allegations of taking property from a home, workplace, or another person.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law provides affordable legal defense for clients accused of shoplifting, petit theft, grand theft, and related property crimes throughout Clearwater and Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco County. We review the evidence against you, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and the circumstances of your arrest, to determine whether the prosecution can prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. We also explore alternatives to conviction, such as pretrial diversion programs that allow you to complete community service or restitution without a criminal record. Clear communication and realistic expectations guide every step of our defense strategy.

Contact Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law to review your theft charge during a free consultation in Clearwater.

What a Theft Defense Attorney Does for You

Your defense begins with a review of how the alleged theft occurred, who witnessed it, and what evidence the state intends to use in court. In Clearwater, many shoplifting cases rely on store employees or security personnel who may have incomplete or inconsistent accounts of what happened. We examine whether you were properly identified, whether the value of the property was accurately assessed, and whether you had any intent to permanently deprive the owner of the item. Intent matters in theft cases, and mistakes or misunderstandings can sometimes be shown through witness testimony or store records.

Once we identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, you gain the ability to negotiate reduced charges or alternative resolutions. You may be eligible for a diversion program that allows you to avoid a conviction by completing restitution, community service, or educational courses. You may also see charges reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor, or dismissed entirely if the evidence does not support the allegations. Each of these outcomes changes what appears on your criminal record and what limitations apply to your housing, employment, and education opportunities.

Our representation includes motion filings, negotiations with prosecutors, and trial preparation if your case proceeds to court. We work with clients who made mistakes, clients who were wrongly accused, and clients whose cases involve complex issues such as co-defendants or prior offenses. Theft charges do not always end in conviction, but they always require a defense attorney who understands how to challenge the evidence and pursue practical outcomes.

Most clients want to know what penalties they face, whether they can avoid jail time, and how the charge will affect their ability to work or go to school.

Let's address what you're probably wondering

What is the difference between petit theft and grand theft?
Petit theft involves property valued under a certain dollar threshold and is typically charged as a misdemeanor, while grand theft involves higher-value property and is charged as a felony. The classification affects the potential jail time, fines, and impact on your record.
How does a theft conviction affect my ability to get a job?
A theft conviction appears in background checks and may disqualify you from jobs that require handling money, working with vulnerable populations, or holding a professional license. Avoiding a conviction through diversion or a reduced charge prevents these limitations.
What happens if I am accused of shoplifting but did not leave the store?
You can still be charged with theft if store personnel believe you intended to leave without paying. Your attorney can challenge the evidence of intent and question whether the store followed proper procedures before involving law enforcement.
When should I hire a defense attorney after a theft arrest?
You should contact an attorney before your arraignment or first court appearance. Early representation allows your attorney to review surveillance footage, interview witnesses, and begin negotiations with the prosecutor.
What are my options if I am offered a diversion program?
You should review the terms of the program with an attorney before accepting. Diversion typically requires you to complete specific conditions within a set timeframe, and successfully completing the program results in no conviction appearing on your record.

Joshua Bethea Attorney at Law serves clients throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, and Pasco County, including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa, Largo, Palm Harbor, and Dunedin. Free consultations are available to discuss your theft charge and legal options.