Theft charges can affect individuals from all walks of life and can profoundly impact future employment prospects. Employers often hesitate to hire individuals with theft convictions on their record. Brian Foley and Luis Baez have handled numerous cases involving theft and shoplifting, and they are committed to safeguarding your reputation. Here are two things you should know about theft charges right away:
-
Convictions for theft can lead to increased punishment ranges. Subsequent convictions may result in up to 2 years in a State Jail Facility.
-
If your case is dismissed and expunged, you can truthfully inform potential employers that you have never been convicted or arrested for that offense.
Theft
The majority of theft charges resulting in arrest involve amounts ranging from $100 to $750, classifying them as Class B offenses. Such offenses carry penalties of up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $2000. Common scenarios include shoplifting, such as concealing items on one's person or skipping items during self-checkout, resulting in partial payment. Theft is defined as the unlawful appropriation of property with the intent to deprive the owner of their property. "Appropriate" entails acquiring or exercising control over property, while "deprive" involves withholding property from the owner permanently or for a significant period, causing loss of value or enjoyment. The term "owner" refers to an individual with a superior right to possession of the property compared to the person charged with theft. We offer complimentary consultations, so don't hesitate to call now!
Shoplifting
Texas lacks a specific shoplifting law; instead, all shoplifting charges are prosecuted under the Theft Statute in Chapter 31 of the Texas Penal Code. Many shoplifting cases involve video evidence captured by security cameras within stores. Even if your case was recorded on video, there may still be avenues to have it dismissed. Texas law grants the prosecution broad discretion to file or dismiss charges, irrespective of the evidence's strength. Galveston Criminal Defense and DWI Attorneys PLLC has the experience to achieve favorable outcomes for our clients.
Theft Punishment Ranges
Did you know this about Theft?
Prosecutor Discretion
As former prosecutors themselves Luis Baez and Brian Foley understand how to make the District Attorney's Office see the circumstances which led to a theft charge against an otherwise law abiding citizen.
(409) 877-4909
Watch: Videos on This Topic
Your Galveston Criminal Defense Attorneys
