What Is Florida Statute 772.11? Understanding the Civil Theft Statute Explained

Learn how Florida Statute 772.11 enables theft victims to recover triple damages through civil lawsuits with legal costs covered.

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Florida Statute 772.11, also known as the Florida Civil Theft Statute, allows victims of theft to file a civil lawsuit against the perpetrator to recover the stolen property's value. Importantly, before filing a lawsuit, the victim must demand the thief return the property or its value. If the case is successful, the victim may receive triple the value of the property stolen, plus legal costs and attorney fees. This statute is a powerful tool for individuals seeking restitution beyond criminal proceedings.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What does Florida Statute 772.11 cover? Florida Statute 772.11, known as the Civil Theft Statute, allows victims to sue thieves to recover the value of stolen property along with triple damages and legal fees.
  2. Can I get triple damages under Florida's civil theft law? Yes, if successful in a civil theft lawsuit under Florida Statute 772.11, victims can recover three times the value of the stolen property plus attorney fees and court costs.
  3. What must I do before filing a lawsuit under Florida Statute 772.11? Before filing, you must demand the return of the property or its value from the thief, which is a mandatory prerequisite to initiating a civil theft claim.