Florida divides theft offenses into misdemeanor and felony categories based primarily on the value of the property allegedly involved:
Under Florida Statute 812.014, theft generally involves knowingly obtaining or using another person’s property with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of its use or benefit.
Prosecutors must establish criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt, and intent is often the most contested issue in theft cases.
Florida divides theft offenses into misdemeanor and felony categories based primarily on the value of the property allegedly involved:
The classification of property value frequently becomes a critical issue in both negotiations and defense strategy, and prior theft convictions can significantly increase the severity of new charges under Florida law.
Theft prosecutions frequently involve disputed intent, financial records, surveillance footage, valuation disputes, and credibility issues that require careful and early review.
Our firm understands both state and federal theft investigations, including cases involving government property, contractors, business operations, and complex financial records that go far beyond a basic theft allegation.
We represent clients throughout Broward County, Miami-Dade County, Palm Beach County, and across Florida, and we are available 24/7 because arrests and investigations rarely happen at convenient times.
Petit theft involves property valued under $750 and is charged as a misdemeanor. Grand theft involves property valued at $750 or more and is a felony. The severity of the felony, third, second, or first degree, depends on the total value of the property allegedly taken.
Theft of federal government property is prosecuted under 18 U.S.C. 641, a federal felony carrying up to 10 years in prison for amounts over $1,000. It applies to government contractors, federal employees, and others who access federal property or programs, and federal investigations in these cases are typically extensive.
Yes. Theft convictions, especially grand theft, can trigger license discipline or revocation for contractors, healthcare professionals, real estate agents, and financial industry professionals. Acting early to protect your record is one of the most important steps you can take.
Yes. Even a first-offense petit theft creates a permanent criminal record and in some cases affects your right to possess firearms. An attorney can often pursue diversion or a withhold of adjudication, meaning no formal conviction on your record.
Yes. Under Florida law, a third theft conviction regardless of the property value can be elevated to a felony charge. If you have prior theft convictions, this is a critical factor your attorney needs to address from the very beginning of the case.
It depends on how the case resolves. If you received a withhold of adjudication or completed a diversion program, you may be eligible to seal or expunge your record. A formal conviction typically cannot be expunged. Your attorney can advise you based on the specific outcome of your case.
Stores and corporations sometimes issue civil demand letters seeking financial payment in addition to pursuing criminal allegations. Receiving a civil demand does not automatically mean a criminal conviction will occur, but responding improperly may affect the broader case. Contact an attorney before responding to any civil demand connected to a theft allegation.
Yes. Prosecutors must prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt, and intent is often one of the most contested issues in theft cases. Situations involving disputed ownership, misunderstandings, consent, or incomplete investigations may all support a challenge to the intent element of the charge.
