Florida takes theft crimes seriously—and grand theft is one of the most heavily prosecuted. If you’ve been arrested or are under investigation for grand theft in Fort Lauderdale or anywhere in South Florida, you need to understand how the law works, what prosecutors must prove, and how an experienced defense attorney can help.
📜 Understanding Felony Theft Law in Florida
Florida Statute § 812.014 defines grand theft as the unlawful taking of property valued at $750 or more with the intent to deprive the owner of it. The severity of the charge depends on the value and type of property involved.
📘 Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida
Third-Degree Grand Theft
➤ Property value: $750–$19,999
➤ Penalty: Up to 5 years in prison, $5,000 fineSecond-Degree Grand Theft
➤ Property value: $20,000–$99,999
➤ Penalty: Up to 15 years in prison, $10,000 fineFirst-Degree Grand Theft
➤ Property value: $100,000 or more, or theft involving a motor vehicle causing property damage
➤ Penalty: Up to 30 years in prison, $10,000 fine
🚨 Common Examples of Grand Theft in Florida
Some real-world scenarios that could lead to grand theft charges include:
Stealing high-end electronics from a retail store
Taking jewelry or cash from an employer
Auto theft or unauthorized use of a vehicle
Fraudulently obtaining someone else’s property through deception
🔍 What Prosecutors Must Prove
To convict someone of charged with felony theft in Florida, prosecutors must show:
You knowingly obtained or used someone else’s property
You intended to deprive them of it permanently or temporarily
The value of the property met the grand theft threshold
A skilled criminal defense attorney can challenge any one of these elements to fight the charges.
⚖️ Defending Against Grand Theft Charges
If you’re facing felony theft charges in Broward County, possible defenses include:
Lack of intent – You didn’t mean to steal the item.
Mistaken ownership – You believed the property was yours.
Value dispute – The item’s value is under the legal threshold.
Insufficient evidence – Weak or circumstantial proof of theft.
🛡️ At Michael White, P.A., we have successfully fought grand theft charges by undermining the state’s evidence and negotiating favorable outcomes.
📍 Arrested for Grand Theft in Fort Lauderdale?
Don’t wait for the prosecution to build their case against you. If you’ve been accused of grand theft in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, or anywhere in South Florida, we can help.
💬 Florida Grand Theft FAQs: What You Need to Know
What amount is considered grand theft in Florida?
Property valued at \$750 or more qualifies as grand theft in South Florida.
Can grand theft be a felony in Florida?
Yes. All grand theft charges are felonies, with penalties based on value and circumstances.
What are defenses to grand theft?
Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken ownership, and insufficient evidence.
Will I go to jail for grand theft?
It depends. A strong legal defense can result in charge reduction, dismissal, or no jail time.
Do I need a lawyer for a grand theft charge?
Absolutely. These are serious felonies, and a criminal defense lawyer can protect your record and future.