Houston Theft Crime Attorneys
Common Theft Offenses in Texas
If you or a loved one has been accused of a theft crime, it’s time to call a lawyer. These crimes can result in serious consequences for the accused, including incarceration, hefty fines, and a record.
What you need is an exceptional Houston theft crime attorney to beat the charges, protect your reputation, and ensure that you obtain the result you deserve.
Corral Firm is a tough and knowledgeable firm with an impressive track record of successful cases. We go the extra mile. We advocate for you when it matters most.
Theft Crimes & Larceny Laws in Texas
In Texas Penal Code Section 31.03(a), theft occurs when “a person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.” Many crimes can fall under this category but vary greatly. For example, shoplifting is very different from embezzlement or credit card fraud. Let’s discuss some of Texas’s most common theft offenses, potential penalties, and defenses against these charges.
The four most common types of theft charges in the state of Texas are:
- Shoplifting
- Writing bad checks
- Accepting / purchasing property that was stolen
- General theft
- Purchasing stolen items online
Shoplifting Charges in TX
If you take items from a store without paying, or show intent to steal, you could be charged with shoplifting. It is estimated that 1 out of every 11 people shoplifts.
Shoplifting is the most common theft crime charged in Texas. This offense can be described as taking merchandise out of a store without paying the full price set by the store. This means that an individual could be accused of shoplifting for disabling an anti-theft device and taking an item out of a store without paying, as well as for switching price tags and paying less than the set amount.
If you or a loved one has been accused of shoplifting, it’s important to get legal help with our Houston theft crime lawyers. The accused could face severe penalties, plus civil penalties. The Texas Theft Liability Act allows shoplifting and other theft victims to file lawsuits for damages sustained in the crime. You need a good lawyer who knows how to protect you.
The penalties and sentences for theft/larceny offenses in Texas, including shoplifting, are determined based on the value of the item or items stolen, as well as any extenuating factors. The lowest theft charge is charged as a Class C misdemeanor, and usually, involves property stolen with a value of $100.00 or less. The most extreme theft cases involve stolen property valued at $300,000.00 or more, which may be charged as a first-degree felony. We handle cases for all types of individuals, including juveniles.
Writing Bad Checks in Texas
This is sometimes known as a ‘hot check.’ This occurs when someone writes a check, knowing that there is no money available in the account to be withdrawn.
For example, writing a $6,000 check to pay for a used car, knowing that the linked bank account has no money in it. The thief leaves with the car, then the seller takes the check to the bank and it is unpayable due to the lack of funds.
If you have accidentally done this- don’t panic! It happens; your account runs low, and you were unaware. You won’t be facing criminal charges. For people who write bad checks by mistake, banks usually charge a small fee. In order to get a theft charge, there must be proof of intent to steal.
If you are facing theft charges, it is important that you contact our Houston theft crime attorneys. We can help you beat your charges. Call us today to set up a consultation! Contact us today, Se habla Español.