Last updated November 2025
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
🔴 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
🚓 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
🔗 Related Posts on Grand Theft in Florida
Want to understand grand theft charges in more depth? Explore our related articles:
Can You Be Charged with Grand Theft for Shoplifting in Florida?
Can a Grand Theft Charge Be Reduced to a Misdemeanor 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.
📞 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
❓ 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.
❓ 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.
❓ 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.
❓ 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.