In Florida, whether you’re charged with a misdemeanor or a felony often comes down to one thing: grand theft property value. Florida law draws a hard line at $750—and if you cross it, you’re facing a felony.
Understanding these property value thresholds is critical if you’re facing a theft accusation in South Florida.
🔹 When Does Theft Become Grand Theft in Florida?
Under Fla. Stat. § 812.014, theft becomes grand theft when the value of the stolen property is $750 or more.
Here’s the breakdown:
Under $750 = Usually petit theft (a misdemeanor)
$750–$19,999 = Third-degree felony
$20,000–$99,999 = Second-degree felony
$100,000+ = First-degree felony
📌 Related:Grand Theft in Florida: 1st, 2nd & 3rd Degree Explained
🔹 Why Property Value Matters So Much
If you’ve been accused of theft, understanding grand theft property value in Florida is crucial.The property value affects:
Whether your case is handled in county or circuit court
Whether you’re eligible for diversion
The potential prison time and fines
Your future ability to seal or expunge the record
Even a few dollars in value can be the difference between a second chance—and a felony conviction.
📌 Related:Can a Criminal Charge Be Removed from Your Record in Florida?
🔹 How Is Property Value Proven in Court?
Prosecutors must present competent, admissible evidence to prove the value of the item(s), such as:
Retail receipts or online value comparisons
Testimony from the owner
Expert appraisal
Police reports describing stolen items
❌ If the State fails to prove the value meets the felony threshold, your charges could be reduced or dismissed. Importantly, the State cannot rely on hearsay to do this.
🔹 Common Scenarios Where Value Is Disputed
Our attorneys challenge the alleged grand theft property value Florida prosecutors rely on.
Used items (e.g., old iPhones, worn jewelry)
Bundles of items where not all were taken
Partial theft of property (e.g., opened merchandise)
Outdated appraisals or exaggerated owner estimates
A skilled defense lawyer can challenge these assumptions—and potentially keep your case from becoming a felony.
📞 Charged With Grand Theft in Florida Based on Property Value?
Don’t assume the police or prosecutor got the value right. Our firm has fought hundreds of theft charges in Fort Lauderdale and Broward County. We’ll challenge the valuation, negotiate reduced charges, and protect your future.
📞 Call (954) 270-0769 for schedule a free consultation here.
🙋♂️ Common Questions About Florida Grand Theft Thresholds
Q1: What’s the minimum amount for grand theft in Florida?
💰 $750. If the property is worth less, the charge is typically petit theft.
Q2: What if the stolen item’s value is disputed?
⚖️ Your attorney can challenge the State’s valuation. If they can’t prove it’s over the threshold, charges may be reduced or dismissed.
Q3: Do used items still count toward the value?
🔁 Yes—but at fair market value, not the original purchase price. This is often a major defense issue.
Q4: Can multiple low-value items be added together?
🧮 Yes—if they’re stolen in the same criminal episode. The combined value can push the charge into felony territory.
Q5: How do prosecutors prove value in grand theft cases?
🧾 Through receipts, owner testimony, online listings, expert appraisals, or surveillance footage showing price tags.