Houston Theft Lawyer
Skilled Attorneys Protect Your Rights, Reputation, & Future
Texas takes misdemeanor theft charges seriously, and so does our Houston theft attorney. Convictions carry severe consequences that impact your personal and professional life. Penalties include fines, the potential of jail time, and a criminal record that follows you for life.
That means your misdemeanor theft conviction shows up on background checks, impacting employment, credit, housing, and federal loans.
The Texas Penal Code defines theft as the taking of another person’s property without their consent. This broad category includes shoplifting, embezzlement, larceny, and extortion. Who you choose to represent you in court may be the most important decision of your life.
When penalties range from a small fine to life imprisonment, you need a skilled trial attorney ready to protect your freedom. Call the criminal attorneys at Universal Law Group today to schedule a consultation.
Book a Case Evaluation
Were you arrested? Call us today.
With a Houston theft attorney from Universal Law Group, you have an advocate to protect your rights and future. Theft is a serious offense with dire repercussions.
When you face theft allegations, there’s potential for jail time, fines, and a permanent record. The severe impact of a conviction means that representation is crucial. So call our Houston criminal lawyer for a free case evaluation today.
Fill out the form or call us at 832-767-0339.
Fight Theft Charges with a Houston Theft Lawyer
Under the Texas penal code, theft involves taking another person’s property without consent. It is a broad umbrella term that covers a vast range of charges. The penalties and severity vary from shoplifting and larceny to embezzlement and extortion.
Due to this, you need a Houston theft attorney who understands how to build a strong defense. With a conviction, the penalty may range from a small fine to life in prison. That means your representation is a crucial decision.
Quite literally, you place your life in the hands of your attorney. Would you want to work with a criminal lawyer Houston trusts?
Criminal defense for theft charges is a lengthy, arduous process. At Universal Law Group, our advocates work to guide you through it as smoothly as possible. We work with you every step of the way to pursue the best possible outcome in your case, whether we get your case dismissed or charges reduced.
- Talking to the authorities after an arrest
- Negotiation charges with the prosecution
- Helping you understand your options
- Guiding you through decisions on plea bargains and trials
Our Houston theft attorney advises you on your best options at every step. With our legal team behind you, you have access to true advocates’ expertise, skills, and dedication.
The legal team at Universal Law Group understands the criminal justice system. With experience as former prosecutors, we know how the opposing counsel thinks. Often, that means the difference between a verdict of guilty and not guilty.
Former Prosecutors as Attorneys
Flexible Payment Options
The Penalties for Theft in Houston
In Texas, State law covers the rules regarding theft for Houston and Harris County. However, many types of theft fall into a broad spectrum of severity. Typically, the exact charges that apply to you and the gravity of the situation depend on the market value of the stolen property.
Moreover, other factors lead to elevated charges.
- Identity of the rightful owner of the property
- The type of property stolen (i.e., theft of firearms)
- Methodology or means of the theft
When a Houston court considers all these factors, they determine the sentence. For example, if the court charges you with theft, the penalties range from Class C misdemeanors to first-degree felony.
Breakdown of Theft Penalties
- Class C Misdemeanor includes theft of property valued at $50 or lower. This misdemeanor is punishable by a maximum fine of $500.
- A Class B Misdemeanor includes stealing something valued from $50-500. The punishment is up to 180 days in jail with a fine of $2,000.
- Class A Misdemeanor theft includes property valued from $500-1,500. The punishment here is up to 1 year in jail with fines up to $4,000.
- A state jail felony results from theft valued from $1,500-20,000. This charge is punishable with up to 2 years in county jail with fines up to $10,000.
- Felony theft in the third degree involves property valued from $20,000-100,000. The punishment is ten years in prison with a fine of $10,000.
- Felony theft in the second degree is the theft of property valued from $100,000-200,000. It is punishable with 20 years in prison and fines of $10,000.
- Felony theft in the first degree includes property valued over $200,000. The punishment is 99 years in prison and a fine of $10,000.
As you can see, the consequences of a conviction escalate quickly. That’s why you must partner with a Houston theft attorney from our firm. We offer you the experience and expertise necessary to navigate the system.
Types of Theft Crimes in Texas
In the State of Texas, possessing or receiving stolen property you know was stolen is also a theft offense. When you partner with our Houston theft attorney, our legal team ensures you understand your situation clearly. If you need representation, contact our team today.
Burglary
Under Texas law, burglary involves entering a building without the intention of the owner with the intent to commit assault, theft, or a felony.
Fraud
Fraud is when you obtain money, services, or property through deception or manipulation. This charge ranges from identity theft to check forgery and credit card fraud.
General Theft
General theft involves taking someone else’s property without their permission. It is the most basic form of theft.
Possession of Stolen Property
When you knowingly accept or purchase stolen property, it qualifies as a theft crime. Our Houston theft attorney can help you defend against these allegations.
Robbery
Robbery involves knowingly or intentionally causing “bodily injury” or even fear of bodily injury in the course of committing theft. Bodily injury and the fear of it cover a vast spectrum. When you face these charges, call on our experienced Houston theft attorney.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting is an all-too-familiar and all-too-common crime. It involves deliberately taking products from a business without paying their total value.
Theft by Check
Theft by check is when you use a check to pay for an item knowing that the account does not have sufficient funds.
Contact Us
Houston Theft Lawyer FAQ
What are the most common theft crimes?
The most common theft crimes include employee theft and shoplifting. Employee theft involves workers stealing from their employer, which can lead to serious penalties like jail time or probation. Shoplifting, typically involving the theft of goods from a store, is often considered a lesser offense but can still carry significant consequences. Regardless of the theft type, it’s crucial to have a defense attorney to protect your rights and avoid lasting repercussions.
How do prior convictions impact theft cases?
Prior convictions can significantly affect the outcome of a theft case, leading to harsher penalties. A criminal record can result in more severe charges, higher fines, and increased sentencing. It can also impact other areas of life, such as employment, housing, and loans. Seeking legal representation is crucial to navigate these challenges and secure the best possible outcome for your case.
What are aggravating factors in a theft case?
Aggravating factors in a theft case can lead to more severe penalties. These factors include actions like deactivating theft detectors, stealing from an elderly person or nonprofit, or committing theft while holding a government contract. In such cases, penalties can escalate to a higher offense level, resulting in harsher consequences. If facing aggravated theft charges, seeking legal counsel is essential to protect your rights.
Houston Theft Attorney
Protect Your Rights
If you’ve been charged with theft in Houston, contact Universal Law Group’s experienced criminal defense attorneys. With over 25 years of expertise, our team is ready to help you navigate the legal system. We understand the impact theft charges can have on your future and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and reputation. Our approach combines skilled defense strategies with personalized attention to ensure you get the best possible outcome. Call (832) 767-0339 for a consultation today.