🔍 Grand Theft Felony Penalties in Florida

Last updated April 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.

Grand theft is part of Florida’s broader theft and fraud laws. For a full overview of how these cases are charged and defended, see our guide to Theft & Fraud charges in Florida.

⚖️ How Grand Theft Charges Are Actually Evaluated

In real cases, grand theft charges are not determined by value alone. Prosecutors also evaluate how the allegation is reported, the available evidence, and whether intent and ownership can be proven.

In many cases, the initial charge does not reflect how the case ultimately resolves once value, intent, and evidence are challenged.

This is why early legal strategy often determines whether a case remains a felony, is reduced, or is dismissed.

⚖️ 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

In many cases, these values are disputed and may be based on estimates rather than verified evidence.

Grand theft charges at the lowest felony level are typically charged as third-degree offenses—learn more about grand theft third degree in Florida.

🔸 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

Because felony charges begin at a specific threshold, it is important to understand how Florida law treats grand theft over $750 and how value is calculated.

Certain categories are treated differently regardless of value, including grand theft firearm charges in Florida.

Similarly, certain offenses involve specific types of property, including grand theft auto charges in Florida, which carry their own legal considerations.

⚠️ Why the Degree of Grand Theft Matters

The degree of a grand theft charge affects far more than potential prison time. Higher-level felonies carry longer probation terms, harsher sentencing scores, and fewer options for diversion or charge reduction.

In many cases, disputing the property value or ownership can mean the difference between a third-degree felony and a decades-long exposure.

In addition to criminal penalties, many cases involve financial repayment—see how restitution works in Florida theft cases.

🔗 Related Grand Theft Charges in Florida

Depending on the facts, grand theft cases may involve additional issues:

• Grand theft third degree in Florida
• Grand theft auto charges in Florida
• Grand theft firearm charges in Florida
• Receiving stolen property charges in Florida

🚓 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.  What happens early in a felony theft case often determines how severe the final outcome will be.

Grand theft charges may also be enhanced if the allegation involves a firearm, a motor vehicle, a vulnerable victim, or a prior theft conviction.

🧠 How We Defend Grand Theft Felony Charges

These cases are often addressed as part of broader grand theft defense strategies in Florida.

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

📞 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. Learn when theft charges can be dropped in Florida.

❓ 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.