How Long Do You Go to Jail for Grand Theft in Florida?

Jail time for grand theft in Florida will depend on several different factors in your case. The most important factor is the class of felony your grand theft charge is and what the accompanying maximum possible punishment is under the Florida criminal code. However, Courts and Judges often have discretion in deciding how long you may go to jail for grand theft in Florida within the limits of the applicable maximum sentence. Our criminal defense Lawyers can fight for your rights after an arrest for grand theft and get results that make a real difference in your case. Leifert & Leifert is ready to fight unfair prosecution in every step of your grand theft case.

The Different Classes of Grand Theft

Florida has different classes of grand theft based on elements such as the value of stolen property, the nature of the property, or the nature of how it was stolen. Florida Statutes § 812.014 explains each of these classes and the conditions the Prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt for the jury to find you guilty. The highest class is grand theft in the first degree, which is a first-degree felony. It applies in the following circumstances:

• The stolen property is $100,000 or more
• The stolen property is a semitrailer deployed by a law enforcement officer
• The stolen property is $50,000 or more and enters commerce
• The grand theft involves the damage of real or personal property in excess of $1,000

The next highest class is grand theft in the second degree. This is a second-degree felony charge that can apply under several different circumstances. For example, you may face this charge for stolen property between $20,000 and $100,000, property under $50,000 that enters commerce, stolen medical equipment of $300 or more, or stolen law enforcement equipment of $300 or more. Third-degree grand theft charges apply to property valued between $750 and $20,000. It can also apply to other types of stolen property, such as a will, a firearm, or a motor vehicle, among other items.

The Maximum Jail Time for Grand Theft in Florida

First-degree grand theft has the longest maximum jail time in Florida with a possible prison sentence of up to 30 years as a first-degree felony under Florida Statutes § 775.082. A second-degree grand theft felony carries a possible prison sentence of up to 15 years, and the maximum prison sentence for a third-degree grand theft conviction is 5 years. In addition to lengthy prison sentences, conviction for grand theft in Florida will also include the imposition of fines based on the class of felony under Florida Statutes § 775.083.

Schedule a Free Initial Consultation for a Grand Theft Charge Defense at Leifert & Leifert

Arrest for grand theft in Florida is an unsettling moment because of the uncertainty around your possible jail time if a jury finds you guilty. Leifert & Leifert provides an assuring presence in each case through the skill and experience of our criminal defense lawyers. Our history as former prosecutors allows us to guide clients with their best interests in mind at each stage of the case, from arraignment to trial. Schedule a free initial consultation and case review with Leifert & Leifert today.