Grand Theft Lawyer Fort Lauderdale

The short answer

In Florida, stealing property worth $750 or more is grand theft, a felony. Grand theft is a third degree felony from $750 to under $20,000, a second degree felony from $20,000 to under $100,000 and a first degree felony at $100,000 or more. Stealing a motor vehicle or a firearm is third degree grand theft no matter what it is worth.

Key facts at a glance

$750 to under $20,000	Third degree felony, up to 5 years
$20,000 to under $100,000	Second degree felony, up to 15 years
$100,000 or more	First degree felony, up to 30 years
Motor vehicle or firearm	Third degree grand theft regardless of value
Petit theft	Under $750 is a misdemeanor unless you have prior theft convictions
Governing statute	§ 812.014, Fla. Stat.

Two or more prior theft convictions can turn a petit theft into a felony.

What does the State have to prove for grand theft?

The State must prove you knowingly obtained or used someone else's property with the intent to deprive them of it, either temporarily or permanently, or to use it for yourself. It must also prove the value of the property, which determines the degree of the charge. Value is usually market value at the time of the theft, not the original purchase price.

What is grand theft auto in Florida?

Taking a motor vehicle with intent to deprive the owner of it is third degree grand theft regardless of the car's value. Related charges include dealing in stolen property, a second degree felony, and unauthorized use cases where the person believed they had permission. Joyriding situations and disputes between family members or business partners over vehicles are often defensible.

Charged or under investigation in Broward County? Get a free, confidential consultation.

Call 954-892-1277 or request a call back

How can grand theft charges be defended?

No intent to steal. Borrowing, misunderstandings and claims of ownership are not theft.
Value challenges. Reducing the value below a threshold can lower the degree or turn a felony into a misdemeanor.
Mistaken identity. Surveillance footage is often unclear.
Diversion and restitution. First-time offenders may qualify for pretrial intervention with restitution and a dismissal.

Representing clients charged in Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Coral Springs, Pompano Beach, Davie, Plantation and every other Broward County city.

Why choose Daniel Rosenberg?

Experience. A member of the Florida Bar since 2006, defending clients in Broward County and federal courts.
Direct access. When you call, you will often speak directly with Daniel himself.
Local. Office at 802 NE 20th Ave in Fort Lauderdale, minutes from the Broward County Courthouse.
Every resource. Success is never guaranteed, but every available resource goes into your defense.

Frequently asked questions

Is grand theft a felony in Florida?

Yes. Theft of property worth $750 or more, or of certain property such as cars and firearms, is a felony.

What is the minimum amount for grand theft in Florida?

$750. Below that it is generally petit theft, a misdemeanor.

Can grand theft charges be dropped if I pay it back?

Restitution can help, especially in diversion programs, but the State decides whether to drop charges.

Is stealing a car always a felony?

Yes. Theft of a motor vehicle is third degree grand theft regardless of its value.

Can a grand theft charge be sealed?

If the charge is dropped or you receive a withhold of adjudication, you may be eligible to seal or expunge the record.

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Florida law referenced: § 812.014, Florida Statutes (2025).

Last updated November 8, 2026. This page provides general information about Florida law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Laws change, so contact an attorney about your specific situation.