Civil Theft
Litigating civil theft cases can be a daunting and complex process for any business. Such cases can be stressful and time-consuming, taking a toll on a company’s resources and reputation. In addition, false accusations of civil theft can cause significant harm to a business, both in terms of public perception and financial stability.
Civil theft litigation can arise from various criminal activities, including theft, possession of altered property, dealing in stolen property, and exploitation of an elderly person. Florida’s civil theft statute, Fla. Stat. § 772.11, creates civil liability for such criminal practices. However, in order to pursue a civil theft claim, the criminal act must violate specific sections of the Florida Statutes, and the plaintiff must present clear and convincing evidence to establish the allegations.
False accusations of civil theft can also have severe consequences for a business if the accusations are ultimately proven to be untrue. Such accusations can harm a company’s reputation and cause long-term damage to its brand. In addition, businesses facing false accusations may be forced to expend significant resources to defend themselves against baseless claims. These resources could be better allocated toward other critical business operations.
Examples of Civil Theft in Florida
For Florida businesses, civil theft can take on various forms that can result in significant harm to a company’s financial and reputational well-being. Here are some examples of civil theft that businesses should be aware of and other causes of action that civil theft can arise from:
| Section | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Employee Theft | Unauthorized taking of company property or assets by employees for personal use |
| Embezzlement | Misuse of company funds/assets, often through manipulation of financial records |
| Fraud | False representation to obtain money/property (e.g., forging invoices) |
| Breach of Contract | Failure to fulfill contractual obligations (e.g., not delivering services/goods) and receiving money or property |
| Conversion | Wrongfully taking or using company property as one’s own |
| Extortion | Threats or coercion used to obtain money or property from a business |
Businesses in Florida should be vigilant in protecting themselves against civil theft and take immediate action if they suspect any form of theft has occurred. It is advisable to consult with a legal professional who can help businesses navigate the complexities of civil theft litigation and protect their legal and financial interests.
Civil theft litigation and false accusations of civil theft can have serious implications for businesses, both in terms of their reputation and financial stability. Therefore, it is essential to seek legal guidance and representation from experienced professionals who can navigate the complexities of civil theft cases and protect a business’s interests. TCLG specializes in complex business litigation and has extensive experience litigating civil theft cases. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of Florida’s civil theft statute, the firm can provide strategic counsel and representation to help businesses protect their rights and prevent future legal issues. Whether you are filing or facing a Civil Theft claim, TCLG can help you through the process: