🏚️ Fort Lauderdale Property Crime Defense Attorney
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If you’ve been arrested for a property-related offense in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida, you’re facing more than just a minor inconvenience. Many property crimes carry severe penalties, including felony charges, mandatory prison sentences, and lasting damage to your criminal record. ⛓️
Even first-time offenders can be sentenced to prison—especially in cases involving burglary or criminal mischief. Prosecutors take these crimes seriously, and so should you. Fortunately, many of these cases are defensible, especially with an experienced attorney by your side.
At Michael White, P.A., we represent clients charged with a wide range of property offenses, from vandalism to trespassing to burglary with tools.
🧱 What Is a Property Crime Under Florida Law?
Property crimes involve the unlawful entry, damage, or interference with someone else’s property. These offenses range from misdemeanors to serious felonies, and the specific charge will depend on the location, intent, prior criminal history, and amount of damage.
🗂️ Common Property Offenses We Handle in Fort Lauderdale
We regularly represent clients charged with:
- Trespass – Fla. Stat. §§ 810.08 & 810.09
- Trespass on School Grounds – Fla. Stat. § 810.097
- Criminal Mischief (Vandalism) – Fla. Stat. § 806.13
- Burglary of a Structure or Conveyance – Fla. Stat. § 812.02
- Possession of Burglary Tools – Fla. Stat. § 810.06
Whether you’re accused of tagging a wall, breaking into a vehicle, or entering a school property without permission, we can build a defense that works for your situation.
⚠️ Why You Should Take Property Crime Charges Seriously
While some property crimes sound minor, they can carry serious long-term consequences, including:
- Trespass – Fla. Stat. §§ 810.08 & 810.09
- Trespass on School Grounds – Fla. Stat. § 810.097
- Criminal Mischief (Vandalism) – Fla. Stat. § 806.13
- Burglary of a Structure or Conveyance – Fla. Stat. § 812.02
- Possession of Burglary Tools – Fla. Stat. § 810.06
Whether you’re accused of tagging a wall, breaking into a vehicle, or entering a school property without permission, we can build a defense that works for your situation.
🛡️ Possible Defenses to Property Crime Charges
Every case is unique, but we often use these common defense strategies in property crime cases:
❌ Lack of Intent
Many property crimes—especially burglary and criminal mischief—require intent. If the State can’t prove intent beyond a reasonable doubt, your charge could be reduced or dismissed.
🚫 Mistaken Identity
Surveillance video? Eyewitness? None of these are foolproof. We challenge flawed IDs and demand strict proof.
🏷️ Ownership or Permission
If you had permission to be on the property, or reasonably believed you did, that can form a strong legal defense.
🧰 Burglary Tools Defense
Simply possessing items like a screwdriver or crowbar isn’t enough—prosecutors must prove intent to commit a burglary. This can be difficult without solid evidence.
👨⚖️ Former Prosecutor. Now Fighting for You.
Attorney Michael White has handled hundreds of property crime cases from both sides of the courtroom. As a former prosecutor, he understands the strategies the State uses to charge and convict—and how to beat them.
We’ll work to get your charges dismissed, reduced, or diverted into a non-criminal resolution whenever possible.
❓ FAQ: Florida Property Crime Charges
🔹 Is burglary always charged as a felony in Florida?
Yes. Under Florida law, burglary is automatically a felony, even for first-time offenders. Penalties vary based on the type of property and whether anyone was present.
🔹 Can I be arrested for trespassing even if I didn’t know I wasn’t allowed there?
It depends. The prosecution must prove you knowingly entered or remained on property without permission. Lack of signage or warning may help your case.
🔹 What’s the difference between trespass and burglary?
Trespass involves unauthorized entry, typically without intent to commit another crime. Burglary involves entering with intent to commit a crime inside, like theft or vandalism.
🔹 Is graffiti considered criminal mischief?
Yes. Graffiti, tagging, and other forms of vandalism fall under criminal mischief and can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the damage.
🔹 Can I be charged just for having burglary tools?
Yes—but only if the State can prove you had them with the intent to commit a burglary. Possession alone is not enough for a conviction.
📞 Charged with a Property Crime in Fort Lauderdale? Call Today.
Whether you’re facing a felony burglary charge or a misdemeanor trespass, don’t go it alone. Let Michael White, P.A. guide you through the criminal justice process with clarity, confidence, and skill.
📱 Call 954-270-0769 or reach out online for a free and confidential consultation today.
