Last updated February 2026
Being arrested for grand theft in Florida is serious. A felony theft charge carries the risk of prison time, steep fines, and a permanent criminal record. But a grand theft charge is not the end of the story — and it is often not the charge that survives the case.
In many Florida cases, grand theft charges can be reduced to petit theft or a lesser felony when the evidence, valuation, or intent does not hold up under scrutiny.
For a full breakdown of felony degrees, value thresholds, and sentencing exposure, see Grand Theft Felony Penalties in Florida.
⚖️ What Is Grand Theft in Florida?
Under Florida Statute §812.014, theft becomes grand theft when the alleged value of the property is $750 or more.
Florida classifies grand theft by value:
Third-degree felony: $750–$20,000
Up to 5 years in prisonSecond-degree felony: $20,000–$100,000
Up to 15 years in prisonFirst-degree felony: $100,000+
Up to 30 years in prison
Prosecutors frequently file the highest provable charge at the outset — but filing a charge and proving it beyond a reasonable doubt are very different things.
🔽 Can Grand Theft Charges Be Reduced?
Yes. Grand theft charges are often reduced when the State’s ability to prove value, ownership, or intent weakens.
Prosecutors may agree to reduce a grand theft charge when:
The alleged value is near the $750 threshold
Ownership or lawful possession is unclear or disputed
Valuation evidence is inflated, speculative, or unsupported
The case relies on circumstantial or weak evidence
The defendant has no prior theft or felony record
Restitution is offered early and strategically
A reduction can mean the difference between a felony conviction and a misdemeanor outcome — or even diversion.
⚠️ Can Grand Theft Charges Be Dropped Instead?
Sometimes, yes.
While this page focuses on reductions, some grand theft cases never reach that stage because they are dismissed outright. This happens when:
Evidence is insufficient or unreliable
The alleged victim refuses to cooperate
The defendant qualifies for diversion
Constitutional violations undermine the case
🛡️ Common Defense Strategies in Grand Theft Cases
An experienced theft defense attorney may be able to:
Challenge property valuation
Prosecutors must prove fair market value — not replacement cost or estimates.Dispute criminal intent
Mistake, misunderstanding, or lawful possession can defeat theft intent.Raise consent or authorization defenses
Permission — even informal — can destroy the State’s case.File motions to suppress evidence
Illegal searches, seizures, or statements can collapse felony cases.Negotiate charge reductions early
Strategic negotiation can downgrade felonies before positions harden.
📍 Broward County Perspective
In Broward County, prosecutors routinely file grand theft charges aggressively — especially in retail, employee theft, and financial cases.
But early intervention matters. When valuation is questionable or intent is weak, reductions are often achievable before the case escalates toward trial or felony sentencing exposure.
👉 Learn how we defend Florida theft charges and push cases toward dismissal, reduction, or diversion before they escalate.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can grand theft be reduced to petit theft in Florida?
Yes. If value is disputed or the evidence weakens, felony charges may be reduced to a misdemeanor.
Does restitution help reduce theft charges?
Often. Properly structured restitution can support reductions or diversion — timing is critical.
Can a felony theft charge ever be dismissed entirely?
Yes. Weak evidence, lack of intent, or constitutional violations can result in dismissal.
What’s the difference between grand theft and petit theft?
Grand theft involves $750 or more and is a felony; petit theft is under $750 and a misdemeanor.
Do I need a lawyer for grand theft charges?
Yes. Felony theft cases involve valuation battles, motion practice, and negotiation that directly affect your record and freedom.