🛑 Can a Grand Theft Charge Be Reduced in Florida?
Strategies That May Turn a Felony into a Misdemeanor
If you’re facing criminal charges for stealing property in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, there’s a good chance you’ve been charged with either grand theft or petit theft. The difference matters—a lot. You’re going to need a grand theft lawyer in Fort Lauderdale.
Grand theft is a felony that can lead to prison, while petit theft is a misdemeanor. The good news? With the help of an experienced grand theft defense attorney, it may be possible to reduce your felony to a lesser charge—or even avoid a conviction entirely.
💰 Grand Theft vs. Petit Theft in Florida: What's the Difference?
In Florida, the distinction between grand theft and petit (or “petty”) theft depends on the value of the allegedly stolen property.
Here’s how it breaks down:
| Charge Type | Property Value | Classification |
|---|---|---|
| Petit Theft | Less than $750 | Misdemeanor |
| Grand Theft (3rd degree) | $750–$19,999 | Felony |
| Grand Theft (2nd degree) | $20,000–$99,999 | Felony |
| Grand Theft (1st degree) | $100,000+ | Felony |
📌 Note: As of July 1, 2019, Florida raised the petit theft threshold from $300 to $750.
🔄 How to Reduce a Grand Theft Felony to a Misdemeanor
While not guaranteed, there are several legal strategies a seasoned defense attorney may use to reduce your charge:
🤝 1. Plea Bargaining
Prosecutors often prefer to avoid a full trial. If the evidence is strong, your attorney may negotiate a plea deal to reduce your charge to a misdemeanor in exchange for a guilty plea. This route may help avoid jail time and a permanent felony record.
🎓 2. Diversion Programs
If this is your first offense, you may qualify for a pre-trial diversion (PTD) or pre-trial intervention (PTI) program. Completing the program could lead to your charge being reduced—or even dismissed.
👮 3. Cooperation with Law Enforcement
In some cases, cooperating with police or prosecutors (such as testifying against co-defendants) may result in a reduced sentence or lesser charge. This option isn’t for everyone, but it can dramatically reduce your exposure to prison time.
🛡️ Common Legal Defenses to Grand Theft Charges
Reducing a charge is one option. But if your attorney believes in your defense, you may be able to fight the charge outright. Here are some defense strategies that can apply:
🔍 Lack of Probable Cause
If law enforcement lacked a valid reason to search you or your property, any evidence they found may be inadmissible in court.
❓ Misunderstanding or Miscommunication
You may have believed you had permission to take the property, or mistakenly took the wrong item. Intent matters in theft cases.
🧠 Lack of Criminal Intent
If you didn’t knowingly or intentionally take the property, the State may not be able to prove you committed theft.
🚫 Entrapment
Law enforcement cannot entice or pressure you into committing a crime just to arrest you. If they did, you may have a valid defense.
👨⚖️ Why Choose Michael White, P.A.?
As a former prosecutor, Michael White knows how the State builds theft cases—and how to challenge them. Whether your goal is to reduce your charges, enter a diversion program, or fight for a not guilty verdict, we’ll stand by your side from start to finish.
📞 Need a Grand Theft Attorney in Fort Lauderdale? Petit Theft? Call Now for a Free Consultation
If you’re facing grand theft charges in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida, don’t wait. Your freedom and future are on the line—and the earlier you act, the better your options.
📱 Call 954-270-0769 today to schedule your free and confidential consultation with Michael White, P.A.
❓ FAQ: Grand Theft Charges & Defense Strategies in Florida
🔹 What’s the minimum value for a grand theft charge in Florida?
As of 2019, stealing property valued at $750 or more qualifies as grand theft in Florida.
🔹 Can a felony theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. Your attorney may negotiate a plea deal, qualify you for a diversion program, or push for a reduction based on weak evidence.
🔹 What is a diversion program in Florida?
A diversion program is an alternative to traditional prosecution. If you complete it successfully, your charges may be dropped or reduced, especially for first-time offenders.
🔹 Can I go to jail for grand theft in Florida?
Yes. Grand theft is a felony, and jail or prison time is possible—even for first-time offenders. However, many cases can be resolved without incarceration.
🔹 What’s the best defense to a theft charge?
The best defense depends on the case. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, illegal search, and misunderstanding about ownership or permission.🔹 What’s the best defense to a theft charge?