Grand Theft in Florida — Understanding the Charges and Building Your Defense

If you’ve been charged with grand theft in Florida, time is critical. Let us step in, challenge the evidence, and work to protect your freedom.
Grand Theft in Florida — Understanding the Charges and Building Your Defense
Being arrested for grand theft in Florida can have serious consequences. Unlike petty theft, grand theft is charged as a felony, with penalties that may include prison time, large fines, and a permanent criminal record. These charges can affect your job, your reputation, and your freedom.
At Bozanic Law, we fight for individuals accused of grand theft—because we know that one moment, one accusation, or one misunderstanding shouldn't define your entire future.
What Is Grand Theft Under Florida Law?
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft becomes grand theft when the value of the stolen property is $750 or more. The law defines theft as knowingly and unlawfully obtaining or using someone else's property with the intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of it.
Examples of grand theft include:
- Stealing electronics, jewelry, or cash over $750
- Shoplifting high-value merchandise
- Vehicle theft
- Credit card fraud or identity theft involving valuable purchases
- Taking construction equipment or tools from a job site
- Removing property during a home break-in
Types and Degrees of Grand Theft in Florida
Florida classifies grand theft into three degrees based on the value and type of property stolen:
Third-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Value: $750 – $20,000
Penalty:
- Up to 5 years in prison
- $5,000 fine
- 5 years probation
This includes general theft of money, phones, laptops, bicycles, and more.
Second-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Value: $20,000 – $100,000
Penalty:
- Up to 15 years in prison
- $10,000 fine
- 15 years probation
First-Degree Felony Grand Theft
Value: Over $100,000
Penalty:
- Up to 30 years in prison
- $10,000 fine
- Long-term probation
Can You Be Charged with Grand Theft by Mistake?
Yes—and it happens more often than people think.
You could be accused based on:
- A misunderstanding over borrowed property
- Being at the wrong place at the wrong time
- False allegations by someone with a motive
- Mistaken identity or faulty surveillance footage
- Inaccurate valuation of the item taken
Even if your actions were not intentional, you could still be charged. That’s why hiring a criminal defense attorney immediately is essential.
Common Defenses to Grand Theft Charges
At Bozanic Law, we carefully review the facts and circumstances of every accusation. Depending on your case, we may be able to fight your charges using the following defenses:
- Lack of Intent — If you didn’t mean to steal or believed the property was yours.
- Owner’s Consent — If the property was loaned, gifted, or permitted.
- Mistaken Identity — If you were wrongly identified as the person involved.
- Value Dispute — If the value is under $750, the charge could be reduced.
- No Proof of Taking or Use — If the prosecution lacks strong evidence.
Our team may also be able to negotiate pre-trial diversion or theft school for first-time offenders, avoiding a criminal conviction entirely.
Why You Need a Defense Lawyer for Grand Theft
A felony conviction doesn’t just mean potential jail time. It can affect:
- Future employment
- Immigration status
- Financial aid and housing eligibility
- Gun ownership rights
- Custody and family court matters
The stakes are high, and prosecutors push hard for maximum sentences. You need a defense that’s even stronger.
Don’t Face Grand Theft Charges Alone
At Bozanic Law, we don’t just defend clients—we fight for their future. Bozanic Law brings tenacity, experience, and strategic insight to every case. Whether it’s your first offense or part of a larger investigation, we’re here to guide you through every step.
No Panic, Call Bozanic!.
If you’ve been charged with grand theft in Florida, time is critical. Let us step in, challenge the evidence, and work to protect your freedom.
📍 Bozanic Law — 17100 Royal Palm Boulevard Suite 1, Weston, FL 33326
📞 Call 954-800-2864 today for a free consultation.
📧 Let’s discuss your case—before it’s too late.
Your future matters. Let us fight to protect it.
No Panic, Call Bozanic!
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