Theft & Property Crimes

Florida Statute 810.02 grades burglary by where it happens: unoccupied structure or conveyance, dwelling, armed or assault. The degree ladder explained.

Florida Statute 812.014(3) is petit theft — what most people call shoplifting or misdemeanor theft. The dollar amounts decide the charge, and your record can turn pocket change into a felony. The value ladder Under $100: petit theft of the second degree — second-degree misdemeanor, up to 60 days in jail (§ 812.014(3)(a)). $100 to

Deed fraud, forged property transfers, and squatters who refuse to leave can all turn into serious felony charges under Florida law, not just a civil property dispute.

A petit theft charge looks small, but it can carry a permanent theft record and, with two prior theft convictions, a third-degree felony — here’s how Florida’s statute actually works.