Last updated January 2026
Florida Statutes § 812.014 defines grand theft as unlawfully taking property valued at $750 or more with the intent to deprive the owner of it—either temporarily or permanently. This includes:
Cars or trucks
Firearms
Credit/debit cards
Construction site materials
Controlled substances
All grand theft charges in Florida are felonies.
⚖️ Types of Grand Theft Felonies in Florida
🔹 Third-Degree Grand Theft (Felony)
Property value: $750–$20,000
Penalty: Up to 5 years prison/probation, $5,000 fine
🔸 Second-Degree Grand Theft (Felony)
Property value: $20,000–$100,000
Penalty: Up to 15 years prison/probation, $10,000 fine
đź”´ First-Degree Grand Theft (Felony)
Property value: Over $100,000 OR use of vehicle to commit theft & damage
Penalty: Up to 30 years in prison, $10,000 fine
đźš“ Arrested for Grand Theft in Fort Lauderdale?
Even first-time offenders face felony records and harsh penalties. A grand theft conviction in Florida can damage your employment, housing, and rights—including your ability to vote or possess firearms.
If your case involves a probation violation, a repeat offense, or theft from a vulnerable person, the prosecution may pursue enhancements. That’s why it’s crucial to act fast.
🧠How We Defend Grand Theft Felony Charges
As a former prosecutor, Attorney Michael White understands how grand theft cases are charged—and how to fight them. Our firm works to:
Challenge evidence and police procedures
Identify lack of intent or mistaken identity
Negotiate charge reductions or pretrial diversion
Fight for acquittal or dismissal when possible
đź”— Related Posts on Grand Theft in Florida
Want to understand grand theft charges in more depth? Explore our related articles:
What Qualifies as Grand Theft in Florida?
Can You Be Charged with Grand Theft for Shoplifting in Florida?
Can a Grand Theft Charge Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor in Florida?
Is Grand Theft a Felony in Florida?
Looking for comprehensive legal guidance? Visit our Theft & Fraud Defense page to learn more about how we defend against all types of property crime charges in South Florida.
đź“ž Accused of Grand Theft? Call Michael White, P.A.
If you’re facing a grand theft felony in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, don’t wait. Call us today at (954) 270-0769 for a confidential consultation.
We’re ready to protect your future and your freedom.
🧾 Grand Theft Felony in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions
âť“ Is grand theft always a felony in Florida?
Yes. In Florida, grand theft is always charged as a felony. The degree of felony depends on the value of the property and the facts of the case.
❓ What’s the difference between petit theft and grand theft?
Petit theft involves property valued under \\$750 and may be a misdemeanor. Grand theft involves property worth \\$750 or more and is always a felony.
âť“ Can I go to jail for grand theft in Florida?
Yes. Even a third-degree grand theft charge carries up to five years in prison. First-degree charges can result in up to thirty years.
âť“ Can grand theft charges be dropped or reduced?
Yes. An experienced defense attorney can often challenge the evidence or negotiate for reduced charges or diversion.
âť“ Can I seal or expunge a grand theft felony?
Only if the charge is dropped or you receive a withhold of adjudication and meet Florida’s strict eligibility rules. A conviction cannot be sealed or expunged.