What is third degree grand theft in Florida?

Third-degree grand theft in Florida is a felony involving the theft of property valued between $750 and $20,000, or of specific items like firearms or vehicles.

Is grand theft in the third degree a felony?

Yes. It is classified as a third-degree felony under Florida law, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, probation, and a $5,000 fine.

Can third degree grand theft charges be dropped?

Yes. If there is insufficient evidence, disputed valuation, or lack of criminal intent, the State may agree to reduce or dismiss the charge.

What happens if the stolen property is worth less than $750?

If the value of the property is under $750, the charge may be reduced to petit theft, which is a misdemeanor under Florida law.

Will I go to jail for a third-degree grand theft charge?

Not necessarily. First-time offenders may qualify for probation, diversion, or a withhold of adjudication instead of incarceration.

Can I seal or expunge a third degree grand theft charge?

If your case is dismissed or results in a withhold of adjudication and you meet eligibility criteria, you may be able to seal the record under Florida law.

What if I'm already on probation and charged with grand theft?

A new felony charge can trigger a violation of probation (VOP). We coordinate defense across both matters to reduce risk and pursue diversion or dismissal.

You are here: Home > Theft & Fraud > 💼 Florida Grand Theft Third Degree: What It Means

💼 Florida Grand Theft Third Degree: What It Means

Last updated November 2025

Arrested for grand theft third degree in Florida? You’re facing a felony — even if it was your first offense and the amount taken was under $20,000. This charge can follow you for life if not handled correctly.

But here’s the good news: there are defenses, diversion programs, and early intervention strategies that can help you avoid prison and protect your future.

📜 What Is Grand Theft in the Third Degree?

Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft is elevated to grand theft in the third degree when the value of the stolen property is:

$750 or more but less than $20,000
Or the item stolen fits a protected category (e.g. firearm, motor vehicle, commercial cargo, stop signs, law enforcement gear)

⚠️ Penalties:

Third-degree felony
Up to 5 years in prison
Up to 5 years probation
$5,000 fine
Permanent felony record (unless dismissed or sealed)

Even shoplifting can trigger this charge if the total value is high enough — especially in high-end retail or organized theft cases.

🛡️ How We Defend Third Degree Grand Theft Charges

At Michael White, P.A., we’ve helped clients fight grand theft charges involving everything from retail theft to online fraud and contractor disputes.

🔹 Value Challenge

We challenge the valuation — depreciation, market value, or inflated police estimates can affect whether it meets the felony threshold.

🔹 Lack of Intent

You must have knowingly and intentionally taken the item. Mistakes, misunderstandings, or civil disputes may not be crimes.

🔹 First-Time Offender Diversion

Many counties offer diversion or pretrial intervention for non-violent theft charges, especially when there’s restitution and no prior record.

🔹 Charge Reduction to Misdemeanor

If the value is borderline or the case is weak, we often negotiate down to petit theft or trespass — avoiding a felony conviction.

✅ Why Clients Hire Michael White

✅ Former prosecutor who understands how these cases are charged
✅ Trusted by professionals, students, and business owners
✅ Focused on dismissal, diversion, or reduced charges
✅ Clear communication and proactive strategy from day one

📞 Charged With Third-Degree Grand Theft in Florida? We Fight Back

One mistake shouldn’t define your life. Let’s protect your future.

👉 See how we fight theft charges in Florida

📞 Charged With Third-Degree Grand Theft in Florida? We Fight Back

💵 What makes it third degree grand theft in Florida?

Property valued at \$750–\$20,000 or specific items like vehicles, firearms, or construction equipment.

📄 Is third degree grand theft a felony?

Yes — it’s a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison and a \$5,000 fine.

📉 Can third degree grand theft be reduced to a misdemeanor?

In many cases, yes — especially with strong legal defense, restitution, or negotiation.

📂 Can I seal or expunge this charge?

If your case is dismissed or resolved without a conviction, sealing may be possible.

👨‍⚖️ What if I’m already on probation?

A new felony charge could trigger a VOP. We coordinate defense strategies across both cases to avoid jail and protect your record.