Shoplifting And Deportation In Miami, Florida
Last updated on February 2, 2026
Even a minor charge can lead to deportation and removal. Your immigration status in Miami, Florida, may feel fragile. That’s why it is so important to have legal representation so that you can understand your options.
Here at Garcia & Qayum Law Group, P.A., many of our staff members are immigrants, and we have extensive experience in this area of the law. Our attorneys will provide you with compassionate and knowledgeable guidance every step of the way. This is a complex area of the law – especially with the intersection between criminal defense and immigration law – but our lawyers can help you address these concerns head-on.
Understanding Shoplifting Charges And Immigration Consequences
Shoplifting can occur in a few different ways in Florida such as:
- Leaving the store with merchandise without paying
- Switching or altering price tags
- Returning items while using fraudulent receipts
Shoplifting charges can sometimes affect immigration status because someone with a criminal record may be deported on the grounds that their conviction is a crime of moral turpitude. This is governed by Florida Statutes § 812.014.
It is important to note that the value of the items that were stolen can play a major role. For instance, petit theft is generally charged as a misdemeanor, and the items had a value of under $750. But if the value exceeds this threshold, it is grand theft and may be charged as a felony.
Deportation Process For Shoplifting Convictions
The first step in the deportation process for immigrants is generally arrest, which could happen after shoplifting. They may then have to go to immigration court, especially if they have been convicted in criminal court. A judge could determine that they are eligible for removal.
Immigrants do have rights at this time, such as defending themselves against the initial criminal allegations or appealing the conviction. They may also be able to challenge the deportation based on the shoplifting charge. For example, someone who is charged with petit theft may claim that it is not actually a crime of moral turpitude because the offense was so minor. Even if convicted of a criminal offense, someone may be able to appeal the deportation decision – and they need to know what steps to take in immigration court.
Exploring Your Options
Shoplifting and deportation can lead to a very complex and nuanced legal situation. To set up an initial consultation with our attorneys, use the online contact form or call us at 305-676-0048 now.