Last updated November 2025
Under Florida law, grand theft is a felony offense — and 3rd degree grand theft is the most common form of it. If you’re facing this charge, you’re not just dealing with a simple misunderstanding. You’re up against a felony that can carry serious consequences for your future.
📜 Florida’s Definition of Grand Theft (3rd Degree)
According to Florida Statute § 812.014, you can be charged with third-degree grand theft if the allegedly stolen property is valued at $750 to $20,000, or if the property falls under specific protected categories, such as:
A firearm
A motor vehicle
A stop sign or fire extinguisher
Controlled substances
Property taken from a dwelling valued between \$100 and \$300
Even if you didn’t know the exact value — or didn’t plan to keep it — you could still face felony charges.
⚖️ Penalties for Grand Theft (3rd Degree)
Being convicted of third-degree grand theft in Florida can result in:
Up to 5 years in prison
Up to 5 years probation
A $5,000 fine
Permanent felony conviction on your record
That felony label can follow you for life — affecting housing, employment, licensing, and immigration status.
🛡️ Can You Beat a 3rd Degree Grand Theft Charge?
Yes — with the right defense. At Michael White, P.A., we look for:
🔹 Mistaken Value — Prosecutors must prove the item’s value
🔹 Lack of Intent — No intent to permanently deprive = no theft
🔹 Consent — You had permission to use or take the property
🔹 Ownership Disputes — Property was shared, loaned, or contested
🔹 Lack of Evidence — No witnesses, no video, no recovery
We push for early resolution — including reduced charges, pretrial diversion, or dismissal — whenever possible.
📞 Facing Grand Theft Charges in Florida?
You’re not alone — but you need an advocate now.
Learn how we defend felony theft charges in Florida.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
📄 What is 3rd degree grand theft in Florida?
It’s a third-degree felony involving theft of property valued between \$750 and \$20,000, or items like firearms, vehicles, or prescription drugs.
⚖️ Is 3rd degree grand theft a felony?
Yes. It is a third-degree felony under Florida law, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, 5 years of probation, and a \$5,000 fine.
📉 Can a 3rd degree grand theft charge be dropped?
Yes. Charges may be dropped if the State can’t prove intent, the property value is unclear, or the defense presents mitigating evidence early in the case.
🔎 What if the item’s value is under $750?
The charge could be reduced to petit theft, a misdemeanor. A strong defense may show the item doesn’t meet the felony threshold.
🛡️ Will I go to jail for 3rd degree grand theft in Florida?
Not always. First-time offenders may qualify for pretrial diversion, probation, or withhold of adjudication instead of jail.