If you’ve been arrested for grand theft in Florida, you’re facing more than just accusations — you’re looking at a felony record, prison time, and long-term damage to your future.
But just because you were charged doesn’t mean you’ll be convicted.
At Michael White, P.A., we’ve helped clients throughout Fort Lauderdale and South Florida fight grand theft charges and win. Here are three legal strategies that could change the outcome of your case.
⚖️ 1. Disputing the Value of the Property
Florida law defines grand theft based on the value of what was allegedly stolen:
Over $750 = 3rd-degree felony
Over $20,000 = 2nd-degree felony
Over $100,000 = 1st-degree felony
If prosecutors can’t prove the value meets those thresholds, you may be eligible for a reduction to petit theft — or even dismissal. We often bring in independent appraisals to challenge inflated estimates.
🕵️ 2. Challenging the Evidence of Intent
To convict you, the State must prove you intended to deprive the owner of their property — not that you borrowed it, mistakenly thought it was yours, or were simply present.
We’ve defended grand theft cases where:
Two people had access to the same vehicle or account
Items were taken during a domestic or roommate dispute
Police relied on surveillance with unclear identity
Intent is not always obvious. And in many cases, it’s completely missing.
🚫 3. Suppressing Illegally Obtained Evidence
Police often cut corners — and we use that to your advantage.
We’ve had success suppressing evidence based on:
Illegal searches of homes, vehicles, or phones
Unlawful seizures of property without a warrant
Coerced or un-Mirandized statements
Overreach by loss prevention or store security
If your rights were violated, we file motions to suppress — and if successful, the prosecution may be forced to drop the case entirely.
📍 Fort Lauderdale Grand Theft Defense Lawyer
At Michael White, P.A., we don’t just plead cases out. We:
Investigate every detail
Challenge every piece of evidence
Fight to protect your future
We handle grand theft cases in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Plantation, and across Broward County. Early action makes a huge difference.
📘 Grand Theft Defense FAQs
❓ Can I be charged with grand theft in Florida if I thought the property was mine?
You can be charged — but if you genuinely believed you had a right to the property, that may defeat the intent element of the crime.
❓ Is grand theft always a felony in Florida?
Yes. Grand theft starts at \$750 in value and is always charged as a felony, with penalties based on value and circumstances.
❓ Can I avoid jail if I’m charged with grand theft?
Possibly. Diversion programs, probation, or charge reductions can help first-time offenders avoid incarceration.
❓ What happens if the police didn’t have a warrant to search me?
Your lawyer may be able to suppress that evidence — and if it’s key to the case, the charges could be dropped.
❓ Do I need a lawyer for a grand theft charge in Broward?
Absolutely. Grand theft is serious, and early legal help can lead to better outcomes — including dismissal or sealing eligibility later.