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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Orlando, FL | Hanlon Law

Orlando Failure to Redeliver Leased Property Lawyer

Failure to Redeliver Leased Property Attorney in Orlando, Florida

Many consumers rely on rental and lease agreements to obtain everyday items such as vehicles, electronics, appliances, and furniture. While these agreements are common, disputes with rental companies can sometimes escalate into criminal accusations. In Florida, failing to return leased or rented property according to the terms of a contract can lead to criminal charges under certain circumstances.

If you have been accused of failing to return leased property in Orlando, you may be facing serious legal consequences that could affect your record, finances, and future opportunities. It is important to seek experienced legal representation as soon as possible.

At Hanlon Law, we defend individuals facing a wide range of criminal allegations, including property-related offenses. Orlando criminal defense attorney Will Hanlon has decades of experience helping clients navigate complex criminal charges and protecting their legal rights.

Understanding Failure to Redeliver Leased Property Charges in Orlando, Florida

Failure to redeliver leased property is governed by Florida Statute 812.155. This law addresses situations where a person obtains property through a rental or lease agreement and then fails to return it according to the terms of the agreement.

These cases often involve property such as:

Rental vehicles
Electronics and appliances
Furniture and household items
Construction or work equipment
Other rented consumer goods

If prosecutors believe a person intentionally kept leased property or failed to return it as required, they may pursue criminal charges rather than treating the issue as a civil dispute.

How These Cases Typically Arise in Orlando, Florida

Many allegations of failure to redeliver leased property begin with a disagreement between a customer and a rental company. Businesses that lease property often include provisions in their contracts requiring customers to return the item at a certain time or after a specific payment schedule.

If a customer misses payments or fails to return the property when required, the company may report the situation to law enforcement. In some cases, criminal complaints are filed after the business claims the customer ignored notices or refused to return the property.

While rental companies may view these situations as intentional misconduct, many cases actually involve misunderstandings, financial hardship, or disputes about the terms of the agreement.

Potential Criminal Penalties in Florida

The severity of a charge related to leased property can depend on the value of the item involved and the circumstances of the case.

For example:

Certain violations may be charged as a second-degree misdemeanor, which can carry penalties of up to 60 days in jail and possible fines.
If prosecutors allege that the property was obtained through fraud or with intent to defraud the owner, the charge may increase in severity.
When the value of the property is particularly high—such as in the case of rental vehicles or expensive equipment—charges may rise to a third-degree felony, which can carry penalties of up to five years in prison or probation.

In addition to criminal penalties, courts may also order restitution requiring repayment of the value of the property or damages.

Building a Defense Against These Allegations in Orlando, Florida

Failure to redeliver leased property cases often hinge on the details of the rental agreement and the communications between the customer and the company. Prosecutors must generally prove that the accused person intentionally failed to return the property or acted with fraudulent intent.

A strong defense may involve demonstrating that:

The accused did not intentionally keep or conceal the property
Proper notice of the return requirement was never provided
The rental agreement did not meet statutory requirements
The matter is more appropriately handled as a civil dispute rather than a criminal case
There is insufficient evidence showing intent to defraud

An experienced criminal defense attorney can review the contract, examine the timeline of events, and identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.

Speak With an Orlando Criminal Defense Attorney

Being accused of failing to return leased property can be stressful, particularly when the situation began as a routine rental transaction. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights and ensure that the facts of your case are fully examined.

Attorney Will Hanlon has been defending individuals facing criminal charges in Florida since 1994. At Hanlon Law, we work closely with our clients to develop defense strategies tailored to the specific facts of their cases.

If you are facing charges related to leased or rented property in Orlando, Hanlon Law at (407) 987-3836 or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about your legal options.