In Florida, grand theft is always a felony—and it comes with serious consequences that can follow you for life. Whether you’re accused of stealing a car, expensive electronics, or even high-end retail items, the penalties are steep, and the state takes these charges seriously.
At Michael White, P.A., we defend clients across Fort Lauderdale and South Florida against grand theft charges and fight to protect their futures.
🚔 What Is Grand Theft Under Florida Law?
Grand theft is defined under Florida Statutes § 812.014. The charge applies when someone unlawfully takes property valued at $750 or more, with the intent to deprive the owner of it—either permanently or temporarily.
This includes theft of:
Vehicles
Firearms
Credit or debit cards
Property taken from a home or construction site
Controlled substances
⚖️ Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida
Florida classifies grand theft into three degrees, each a felony:
🔹 Third-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Property value: $750 to $20,000
Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison, 5 years probation, and a $5,000 fine
🔸 Second-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Property value: $20,000 to $100,000
Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison, 15 years probation, and a $10,000 fine
🔴 First-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Property value: Over $100,000, or involving a motor vehicle used to commit the theft and cause damage
Penalty: Up to 30 years in prison and a $10,000 fine
🚨 Does the Victim’s Identity Matter?
Yes. If the victim is elderly, disabled, or a government agency, prosecutors may seek enhanced penalties. Theft from law enforcement, utility companies, or construction sites also triggers harsher treatment.
🧷 Is Grand Theft Always a Felony?
Yes. Unlike petit theft, which can be a misdemeanor, all forms of grand theft are felonies in Florida. Even if it’s your first offense, a conviction means you’ll carry a felony record—potentially for life—unless the case is dismissed, reduced, or resolved through diversion.
🛑 What Are the Consequences of a Felony Grand Theft Conviction?
A conviction can impact:
Your freedom (jail/prison time)
Employment opportunities
Professional licensing
Housing options
Immigration status, if applicable
You also lose certain civil rights, like voting and owning firearms, unless restored later.
🧠 How a Fort Lauderdale Theft Defense Lawyer Can Help
If you’re accused of grand theft in Broward County or anywhere in South Florida, don’t wait to get legal help. We can:
Challenge the evidence
Push for charge reductions
Explore diversion or withhold of adjudication
Fight for dismissal or acquittal
📞 Arrested for Grand Theft? Call Michael White, P.A.
If you’re facing grand theft felony charges in Fort Lauderdale, the stakes are high. As a former prosecutor and experienced criminal defense attorney, Michael White understands how to challenge the case against you and fight for the best outcome.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or contact us online for a confidential consultation.
🧾 Facing a Grand Theft Charge? Here’s What You Need to Know
❓ Is grand theft always a felony in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, grand theft is always charged as a felony, regardless of the specific value or item taken. The degree of the felony depends on the value and circumstances.
❓ What’s the difference between petit theft and grand theft?
Petit theft involves property worth less than $750 and may be a misdemeanor. Grand theft involves property valued at \$750 or more and is always a felony.
❓ Can I go to jail for grand theft in Florida?
Absolutely. Depending on the degree, penalties can range from up to 5 years to 30 years in prison. Even first-time offenders face significant consequences.
❓ What if it was a misunderstanding or accident?
Intent matters in theft cases. If we can show lack of criminal intent or rightful ownership, charges may be dropped or reduced.
❓ Can grand theft charges be sealed or expunged?
Only if the charges are dismissed or adjudication is withheld and other eligibility requirements are met. A conviction for grand theft is not sealable or expungeable in Florida.