🚨 Arrested for Theft in Florida? Your Future Could Hinge on One Number.
In Florida, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony theft charge often comes down to the value of the property involved.
Even a few dollars can make the difference between probation and prison.
At Michael White, P.A., we help clients across South Florida navigate theft charges—whether it’s shoplifting, employee theft, fraud, or something more complex.
⚖️ Theft Charges in Florida: The Basics (Fla. Stat. § 812.014)
Florida defines theft as knowingly obtaining or using someone else’s property with the intent to deprive them of it. The level of the charge depends on the value of what was taken.
🔹 Misdemeanor Theft (Petit Theft)
| Charge Level | Property Value | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 2nd Degree Misdemeanor | Under $100 | Up to 60 days jail or 6 months probation |
| 1st Degree Misdemeanor | $100–$749 | Up to 1 year in jail or probation |
🔸 Felony Theft (Grand Theft)
| Charge Level | Property Value | Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| 3rd Degree Felony | $750–$19,999 | Up to 5 years in prison |
| 2nd Degree Felony | $20,000–$99,999 | Up to 15 years in prison |
| 1st Degree Felony | $100,000+ or cargo theft | Up to 30 years in prison |
💡 Examples of Theft Charges in Florida
🚗 Stealing catalytic converters or car parts
🛍️ Shoplifting merchandise from retail stores
💼 Employee embezzlement or credit card misuse
💻 Online or digital property theft
🧾 Organized retail or package theft
🛡️ How We Fight Theft Charges
At Michael White, P.A., we build strategic defenses such as:
Proving lack of intent to permanently deprive
Arguing mistaken ownership or misunderstanding
Disputing the valuation of the items
Negotiating charge reductions or diversion programs
📌 Related Reading:
📞 Charged With Theft in Florida? We Can Help.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
⚖️ What’s the difference between misdemeanor and felony theft in Florida?
Whether you’re dealing with a misdemeanor or felony, a theft conviction can follow you forever.
Let’s work to get it dropped, reduced, or resolved without a conviction.
📲 Call (954) 270-0769 or request your consultation online
Theft under $750 is typically a misdemeanor (petit theft). Theft of \$750 or more is a felony (grand theft), with more serious penalties and long-term consequences.
🧾 Can a first-time theft charge be dismissed?
Yes. Many first-time offenders may qualify for pretrial diversion, withhold of adjudication, or charge reduction depending on the facts of the case.
💰 What if the value of the stolen item is close to $750?
We can often dispute the valuation. If the item was mispriced or improperly appraised, it may lower the charge from a felony to a misdemeanor.
🧑⚖️ Will I go to jail for theft in Florida?
Not necessarily. Many theft cases—especially nonviolent or first offenses—can be resolved without jail time, especially with a strong legal defense.
🔐 Can theft charges be sealed or expunged in Florida?
If adjudication is withheld or charges are dropped, you may qualify to have your record sealed or expunged. But felony convictions cannot be sealed.