Property Crimes

Fighting Charges Of Theft, Fraud & More in Fort Walton Beach, FL

If you have been arrested for theft, burglary, fraud or another property crime, your freedom and your future are at risk. You need strong and effective defense representation as soon as possible. Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law, is a team of criminal defense advocates with more than 30 years of experience in Florida’s criminal justice system. Aggressive and determined, we work tenaciously to protect our clients’ rights and preserve their freedom.

For a free consultation about a criminal charge in Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview or elsewhere in northwest Florida, call us at (850) 583-9379.

Charged With A Property Crime in Okaloosa County & Northwest Florida? We Can Help.

We defend people accused of all types of property crime charges, including:

  • Grand theft
  • Burglary and robbery
  • Shoplifting
  • Fraud, including credit card fraud and check fraud
  • Vandalism and criminal mischief
  • Other property crimes

In addition to defending adults, we also represent juveniles charged with crimes.

Aggressively Defending Your Rights And Freedom

With their extensive criminal defense experience, our property crime lawyers understand Florida law and how to evaluate the strength of prosecutors’ cases. When defending you, we will thoroughly review all aspects of your case, looking for a way to obtain a dismissal of the charge or another positive outcome. We will challenge the state’s attorney’s case whenever possible and aggressively defend you at all stages of the legal process.

Avoiding Conviction And Keeping Your Record Clear

Some first-time offenders, such as those charged with misdemeanor shoplifting or vandalism, may be eligible for an adjudication withheld outcome. In this type of outcome, a conviction will not be entered into your record if you stay out of further trouble for a period of time. You may also be able to have your record sealed, which prevents disclosure of your arrest through routine background checks. Our shoplifting and vandalism defense lawyers have helped many people obtain these outcomes. If you are eligible, we will seek to obtain an adjudication withheld outcome for you.

Free Consultation — Contact A Theft Crime Attorney

For a free consultation about a property crime case in Florida, call Cotton & Gates at (850) 583-9379 or contact us online.

Your Attorney

Cassie M. Reed is a former prosecutor who now leads our criminal defense and family law practice across Okaloosa County. To discuss your case, call (850) 583-9379 or contact us online for a free consultation.

Serving Fort Walton Beach and All of Okaloosa County

Looking for a property crime attorney near you? Cotton & Gates serves Fort Walton Beach, Destin, Niceville, Crestview, Shalimar, and the surrounding Okaloosa County communities. Most clients reach our Shalimar office in 15 minutes or less from anywhere in Okaloosa County.

Need a complete overview of our Fort Walton Beach legal services? See our Lawyers in Fort Walton Beach page for a firm-wide summary, attorney profiles, service-area details, and answers to questions about working with Cotton & Gates.

Why Choose Cotton & Gates, Attorneys at Law?

Our lawyers provide the personal service and zealous representation we would want if we were in your situation.

  • Convenient Payment Plans
    Ask about our payment plan options and pay the way you'd like.
  • Former Prosecutor Experience
    We have experience on both sides of the courtroom.
  • Fully Remote Legal Services
    Whenever possible, we offer innovative solutions to make life easier for you.
  • Start with a Virtual Consult
    With virtual consultations, it's easier than ever to get started.
    "If you need a great attorney, THIS IS YOUR TEAM!"
    He literally saved my life!
    - Dawn H.
    "There are not enough stars to express my gratitude."
    I have anxiety issues and she handled my husband's case so eloquently that I did not have to worry about anything.
    - Ann D.
    "We Won!"

    When you find yourself needing an attorney and your life is in chaos. Call Attorney Cotton. He had my back all the way. He was worth every penny and I can't thank him enough!! We won!!

    - Paula J.
    "The solid right-hand man you want in your corner!"
    Byron didn’t just focus on the legal facts—he checked in on me as a human being.
    - Jason M.
    "Highly Recommend"
    She took on my very dynamic caseload and never shied away in the face of adversity.
    - Mike M.
    "Highly Recommend"

    I heard about Mr. Cotton through a friend who had good results. Mr. Cotton was also able to successfully take care of my case as well. It was very easy to communicate with his team to ask questions, relay information and get important updates.

    - L. Williams

Contact Cotton & Gates Now!

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