🚨 Arrested for Grand Theft in Florida? The Statute Matters.
If you’ve been accused of stealing something worth $750 or more, you may be facing grand theft charges under Florida law—and possibly a felony record.
Understanding the Florida grand theft statute can help you see what prosecutors must prove, what penalties apply, and how we fight back.
⚖️ Florida Statute § 812.014 – The Grand Theft Law
The statute defines theft as:
Knowingly obtaining or using the property of another with the intent to:
Deprive them of it permanently, or
Use it without authorization
The charge becomes grand theft when the value or type of property meets certain thresholds.
📋 Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida
| Degree | Value of Property | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Degree Felony | $750–$19,999 | 5 years in prison, $5,000 fine |
| 2nd Degree Felony | $20,000–$99,999 | 15 years in prison, $10,000 fine |
| 1st Degree Felony | $100,000+ or certain cargo theft | 30 years in prison |
🔍 Examples of Property That Can Trigger Grand Theft Charges
Retail merchandise worth $750 or more
Construction tools or materials
Cell phones, laptops, designer goods
Firearms, motor vehicles, or controlled substances
Catalytic converters or auto parts
🔄 When We Challenge a Grand Theft Charge
At Michael White, P.A., we examine:
💰 Valuation disputes (Was it really worth $750+?)
🤔 Intent to steal (Was it a mistake, misunderstanding, or ownership dispute?)
🧾 Proof of knowledge or control (Especially in shared spaces or vehicle stops)
📌 Related Reading:
🛡️ Possible Outcomes We Fight For
Charge reduced to petit theft
Withhold of adjudication
Diversion for first-time offenders
Dismissal if the case lacks evidence or proof of intent
📞 Accused Under Florida’s Grand Theft Statute? We Can Help.
Theft charges can feel overwhelming—but we fight them every day. Let us review your case, explain the law, and defend your future.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or request a consultation
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
⚖️ What is Florida’s grand theft statute?
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines theft as knowingly taking another’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. If the property is valued at $750 or more, it’s charged as grand theft.
📈 What are the degrees of grand theft in Florida?
3rd Degree Felony: $750–$19,999 (up to 5 years prison)
2nd Degree Felony: $20,000–$99,999 (up to 15 years)
1st Degree Felony: $100,000+ or certain circumstances (up to 30 years)
💰 Can grand theft charges be reduced?
Yes. We often challenge the value of the property, intent to steal, or even the identity of the person accused. Many cases result in reduced charges or diversion programs.
🛠️ What defenses are available to grand theft charges?
Disputing the value or ownership
Proving lack of criminal intent
Demonstrating mistaken identity
Showing you had lawful permission to possess the property
🔐 Will a grand theft conviction stay on my record forever?
Yes—if you’re convicted, it becomes a felony record. That’s why we fight hard to avoid convictions and preserve sealing or expungement eligibility.