🚨 Charged With Theft in Florida? The Dollar Amount Matters.
Florida law draws a hard line between a misdemeanor and a felony based on property value.
So if you’re wondering how much is grand theft in Florida, the short answer is: $750 or more.
The longer answer can affect your future—and your freedom.
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients charged with theft understand the stakes and fight for reduced charges or dismissal.
⚖️ Florida Grand Theft Thresholds (Fla. Stat. § 812.014)
| Charge Level | Value of Property | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Petit Theft (2nd) | Under $100 | 2nd-degree misdemeanor |
| Petit Theft (1st) | $100–$749 | 1st-degree misdemeanor |
| Grand Theft (3rd) | $750–$19,999 | 3rd-degree felony (up to 5 years) |
| Grand Theft (2nd) | $20,000–$99,999 | 2nd-degree felony (up to 15 years) |
| Grand Theft (1st) | $100,000+ or certain cargo | 1st-degree felony (up to 30 years) |
đź’ˇ Common Examples of Grand Theft by Value
Stealing a phone or laptop worth $800
Shoplifting over $750 in merchandise
Taking cash or tools from a job site
Catalytic converter theft
Designer clothing or electronics during organized retail theft
🛠️ How We Fight Grand Theft Charges
Even if the value is borderline, we challenge:
The way the property was valued
Whether items were counted or priced properly
Intent to steal or ownership disputes
We often negotiate:
Reduction to petit theft
Withhold of adjudication
Diversion for first-time offenders
đź“Ś Related Reading:
đź“ž Grand Theft Isn’t Just About the Money—It’s About Your Record.
Even if you qualify for a lighter sentence, a felony conviction can follow you for life.
Let us help you fight back—and move forward.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or request a free consultation
âť“ Frequently Asked Questions
đź’° How much does something have to be worth to be grand theft in Florida?
In Florida, theft becomes grand theft when the value of the stolen property is $750 or more. Anything under $750 is typically charged as petit theft.
⚖️ Is grand theft a felony in Florida?
Yes. All grand theft charges in Florida are felony offenses. The degree—third, second, or first—depends on the value of the property and other circumstances.
🧾 What are the penalties for grand theft in Florida?
3rd-degree felony: up to 5 years in prison
2nd-degree felony: up to 15 years
1st-degree felony: up to 30 years
Fines and probation may also apply.
🛠️ Can a lawyer get grand theft charges reduced?
Yes. With experienced representation, charges may be reduced to petit theft, resolved through diversion, or dismissed if there are issues with valuation or evidence.
📉 Does the value of stolen property include tax or discounts?
Sometimes. Prosecutors often use the retail value at the time of theft, but defense lawyers can challenge inflated valuations or dispute how the value was calculated.