Last updated November 2025
If you’re facing a felony theft charge in Florida, you may be wondering if there’s any way out — especially if it’s your first offense or the case is a misunderstanding.
The good news?
Yes, grand theft charges can be dropped in Florida.
But it’s not automatic — and it’s rarely easy.
Here’s what you need to know about when prosecutors might drop a grand theft case, and how a skilled criminal defense attorney can help.
📜 Florida Law on Grand Theft
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, grand theft is any theft of:
Property valued at $750 or more, or
Certain protected items like firearms, vehicles, controlled substances, or property taken from a dwelling
It’s a felony — even for first-time offenders — and prosecutors take it seriously. That said, cases can unravel for a number of reasons.
✅ When Can Grand Theft Charges Be Dropped?
Prosecutors may drop or dismiss grand theft charges if:
The alleged victim won’t cooperate
While victims don’t control the case, a non-participating or unwilling victim can make prosecution difficult.It’s a first offense
Diversion programs or pre-filing resolutions are often available for clean-record defendants.The value of the item is unclear
If prosecutors can’t prove the item is worth at least $750, the case may be reduced to a misdemeanor or dismissed entirely.There’s weak or no evidence
No video, no eyewitness, no recovery of the item? The State may not be able to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.It’s a civil dispute, not a crime
Disagreements over shared property or business dealings often don’t belong in criminal court.Restitution is made
In some cases, paying the alleged loss quickly can help resolve the matter before charges are ever filed.
🛡️ How We Fight to Get Grand Theft Charges Dropped
At Michael White, P.A., we don’t wait for prosecutors to offer a deal — we act fast to position the case for dismissal.
Our strategy often includes:
🔹 Early victim contact (when appropriate)
🔹 Pre-filing intervention with the State Attorney’s Office
🔹 Challenging probable cause or search legality
🔹 Negotiating restitution and diversion agreements
🔹 Filing a motion to dismiss or suppress evidence
📞 Facing Grand Theft Charges in Florida?
Let’s fight for a dismissal before it goes any further.
Click here to learn how we defend felony theft charges.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
📄 Can grand theft charges be dropped before court?
Yes. Your attorney may intervene before formal charges are filed, especially in first-offense or weak-evidence cases.
🧾 Does paying restitution help get charges dropped?
Yes. If the loss is repaid quickly, the State may consider dropping or reducing charges — especially in non-violent, low-level cases.
🚔 What if it’s my first time being arrested?
First-time offenders may qualify for diversion, which often results in a complete dismissal of charges.
⚖️ Can the alleged victim drop grand theft charges?
Not directly. Only the State Attorney’s Office can drop charges, but a victim’s refusal to cooperate can greatly influence the decision.
📉 Can felony grand theft be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes — if the item’s value is under \$750 or the facts are unclear, charges may be amended to petit theft.