Your child made a mistake—and now you're staring down the consequences. Maybe they shoplifted from a Boca Raton retailer or were caught in a group theft incident in Palm Beach Gardens. Grand theft sounds dramatic, and the charge is serious. But what's even more frightening is what comes next: Will this arrest derail their college plans? Will it follow them into every job interview?
At The Law Offices of Robert David Malove, we know what’s at stake for young people charged with theft offenses. A single felony on their record can trigger years of setbacks, but with the right legal guidance, it may be possible to protect their future and their freedom.
What Is Grand Theft Under Florida Law?
In Florida, grand theft is defined as the unlawful taking of property valued at $750 or more (Fla. Stat. § 812.014). It is charged as a felony and categorized by value:
- Third-degree felony. Property worth between $750 and $20,000.
- Second-degree felony. Property worth $20,000–$100,000.
- First-degree felony. Applies to property worth over $100,000 or where specific aggravating factors exist. Carries up
Even if this is your child’s first offense, a felony conviction is serious—and may carry long-lasting consequences far beyond the courtroom. Under Florida law, grand theft convictions cannot be expunged or sealed. Both Florida Statutes § 943.0585 (expungement) and § 943.059 (sealing) specifically exclude felonies such as grand theft from eligibility when there has been a conviction. Only cases where adjudication was withheld, charges were dropped, or the individual completed a diversion program (and received no conviction) may be eligible for expungement or sealing.
Can a Grand Theft Conviction Affect College Admissions?
Yes—especially if your child applies to selective schools or programs with strict conduct standards.
Here’s how it can impact the process:
- Application disclosures. Some colleges require students to report felony charges or convictions. Failing to disclose truthfully could result in a rescinded admission offer.
- Background checks. Certain programs—especially those involving health care, education, or criminal justice—may conduct background checks.
- Moral character evaluations. Scholarships, honors programs, or study-abroad opportunities may include a character assessment. A criminal record could be disqualifying.
Will a Theft Conviction Make It Harder to Get Scholarships?
It can. While federal financial aid programs (FAFSA) don’t automatically disqualify students for a theft conviction, other barriers may arise:
- Private scholarships often have conduct requirements. Many require applicants to be in “good standing,” and some explicitly exclude those with felony records.
- Athletic or merit-based awards can be revoked. Teams and honor programs may remove students found guilty of criminal conduct.
- State aid programs may vary. Florida-specific grants or programs may impose their own character standards.
While not every funding source will disqualify your child, a conviction can create additional scrutiny—and in some cases, may close doors that were once open.
Could a Conviction Affect Employment or Internships?
Yes. Employers frequently conduct background checks, and a theft conviction—especially a felony—can make job hunting more difficult, particularly in:
- Retail or financial sectors. Jobs involving trust, cash handling, or client property may disqualify candidates with theft-related convictions.
- Government or public service positions. These often require fingerprinting or deeper criminal background investigations.
- Professional internships. High school and college students with convictions may be passed over for internship roles that require background clearance.
It’s also important to note that licensing boards—for professions like law, nursing, real estate, or education—may deny certification to individuals with felony theft records, especially if the offense involves dishonesty. Each board evaluates applicants case by case, so early legal intervention is key.
What Can a Defense Lawyer Do to Help?
At The Law Offices of Robert David Malove, we focus on minimizing the damage of criminal charges for first-time offenders in West Palm Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Jupiter, and throughout Palm Beach County. Depending on the facts of your child’s case, we may be able to:
- Fight for charge reductions. Prosecutors may agree to reduce the charge to a misdemeanor where appropriate.
- Seek pretrial diversion. These programs can lead to dismissal of charges after successful completion—preserving your child’s clean record.
- Challenge the evidence. We examine all facts, including surveillance footage, witness credibility, and whether police followed proper procedures.
Early legal intervention may be the difference between a second chance and a record that limits your child’s future in college, employment, or life.
