Know what you're facing
Plain-English notes on Florida charges, court procedure, and what to expect — written by the attorney who handles the cases.
FAQsWhat are the penalties for a first-time Grand Theft conviction in Fort Lauderdale?For a third-degree grand theft (property valued between $750 and $20,000), a first-time offender faces up to five years in Florida State Prison, five years of probation, and $5,000 in fines. However, the Broward County court system often allows eligible individuals to pursue Pre-Trial Diversion programs. Successful completion of these programs can lead to a […]Read article →FAQsHow is the value of stolen property determined in a Florida theft case?Florida courts generally utilize the "fair market value" of the property at the time and place the offense occurred. This represents the price a willing buyer would pay a willing seller for the item in its current condition. If market value cannot be established, the court may consider the replacement cost. A knowledgeable defense attorney […]Read article →FAQsCan a Petit Theft charge be upgraded to a felony in Broward County?Yes, a misdemeanor can be reclassified under specific circumstances in the 17th Judicial Circuit. If an individual has two or more prior theft convictions, a third petit theft arrest may be charged as a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison. Furthermore, if the theft involves a coordinated effort with others or […]Read article →FAQsWhat is the main difference between Petit Theft and Grand Theft in Florida?The primary distinction lies in the monetary value of the property taken. Under Florida Statute § 812.014, theft is classified as petit theft if the property is valued at less than $750, typically causing misdemeanor charges. Grand theft is generally a felony charge when the property value reaches $750 or more. Certain types of property, […]Read article →FAQsWhat is "Grand Theft of a Motor Vehicle"?Under Florida Statute § 812.014(2)(c)6, the theft of any motor vehicle is automatically classified as grand theft in the third degree, regardless of whether the vehicle is worth $100 or $10,000. In Broward County, this is a serious felony. If the vehicle is used to cause property damage or if the value exceeds higher thresholds […]Read article →FAQsWhat happens if I stole multiple items that add up to $750?Florida law may allow prosecutors to aggregate the value of multiple items in certain cases. For example, if you are accused of taking several items during the same incident, the combined value may be used to determine the charge. If that total reaches $750 or more, you may face a third-degree grand theft charge rather […]Read article →FAQsWhat are the long-term consequences of a grand theft conviction?Beyond jail time and fines, a grand theft conviction is treated as a crime involving dishonesty. It can affect employment, background checks, professional licensing, housing, credit applications, firearm rights, and certain civil rights. The impact depends on the conviction, sentence, and your individual circumstances. 0/5 (0 Reviews)Read article →FAQsCan a grand theft charge be reduced to a misdemeanor in Fort Lauderdale?Yes, it is often possible to work on your behalf to seek a reduction of charges. This typically occurs by challenging the prosecution’s valuation of the property to show it falls below the $750 threshold. If the value is successfully disputed or if there are significant weaknesses in the state’s evidence regarding your "intent" to […]Read article →FAQsWhat is the difference between grand theft and petit theft in Florida?Under Florida law, the primary difference is the monetary value of the stolen property. Petit theft (a misdemeanor) involves property valued under $750, while grand theft (a felony) involves property valued at $750 or more. Additionally, grand theft can be charged regardless of value if the stolen item is a firearm, motor vehicle, or fire […]Read article →