Houston Theft Attorney
Experienced Defense for All Types of Theft Charges in Houston and Harris County.
Theft charges in Texas cover a broad range of actions involving the unlawful taking of another person’s property. According to Title 7, Chapter 31 of the Texas Penal Code, this can encompass everything from shoplifting to complex fraud schemes and robbery. If you are convicted of theft, the penalties can range from a small fine to Life Imprisonment in the most extreme felony cases. Facing such serious consequences in Houston and Harris County makes hiring an experienced Houston theft attorney an incredibly important decision in your life.
Theft Charges Information Center
Lisa Shapiro Strauss understands what’s at stake when it comes to defending clients against misdemeanor and felony theft charges. She has the expertise, skills, and dedication to thoroughly examine the evidence against you and formulate an effective defense strategy. The process of fighting a theft charge can be long and difficult, often requiring help with talking to the police, negotiating with prosecutors, or deciding whether to take the stand at trial. When you have a Houston theft attorney like Lisa Shapiro Strauss — a criminal defense lawyer and Former County Prosecutor with a Lot of Experience – on your side, it can mean the difference between a guilty or not guilty verdict.
Understanding Theft Charges Under Texas Law
At its core, theft in Texas is defined as the unlawful taking of someone else’s property without their effective consent, with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. This broad definition covers many different scenarios.
The severity of a theft charge in Texas is primarily determined by the Value of the Property Stolen. This is how theft offenses are “graded” under the law, leading to different levels of misdemeanor or felony charges.
Types of Theft Crimes We Defend in Harris County
Theft charges in Harris County encompass a variety of specific offenses, each with unique legal elements and potential penalties. The type of charge you face depends on the nature of the property, the method of taking, and other circumstances. As experienced Houston theft attorneys, we defend clients against a wide range of theft-related accusations. Click on the links below to learn more about specific types of theft crimes:
- Shoplifting: Learn about defending against shoplifting charges in Houston stores.
- Burglary: Find information on burglary of a building, habitation, or vehicle charges.
- Robbery: Understand the serious felony charge of robbery involving force or threats.
- Fraud: Learn about defense strategies for fraud cases, including identity theft and credit card fraud.
- General Theft: General theft is the act of taking property that belongs to someone else without his or her permission.
- Possession of Stolen Property: Buying or accepting property that you know to be stolen also qualifies as a theft crime in Texas.
- Theft by Check: Paying for an item with a check when the checking account does not have sufficient funds to cover the amount or the account is closed qualifies as theft by check.
- Employee or Workplace Theft: Find information on theft charges within the workplace.
Each of these charges has specific legal requirements that the prosecution in Harris County must meet. Understanding the nuances of your specific theft charge and its potential impact is the first step in building an effective defense. Visit the dedicated pages above for detailed information, or contact us to discuss your specific case.
Penalties and Consequences for Theft Convictions in Texas
The penalties for theft convictions in Texas are primarily tied to the value of the property stolen. These consequences can impact your freedom, finances, and future opportunities in Houston.
Theft Penalties Explained (By Value)
The charges for theft in Texas, based on the value of the property, are as follows:
- Class C Misdemeanor: Property value under $100. Penalty: Fine up to $500.
- Class B Misdemeanor: Property value $100 to $750. Penalty: Up to 180 days in county jail and/or fine up to $2,000.
- Class A Misdemeanor: Property value $750 to $2,500. Penalty: Up to one year in county jail and/or fine up to $4,000.
- State Jail Felony: Property value $2,500 to $30,000, or certain specific types of property regardless of value. Penalty: 180 days to 2 years in a state jail facility and/or fine up to $10,000.
- Third Degree Felony: Property value $30,000 to $150,000. Penalty: 2 to 10 years in Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) prison and/or fine up to $10,000.
- Second Degree Felony: Property value $150,000 to $300,000. Penalty: 2 to 20 years in TDCJ prison and/or fine up to $10,000.
- First Degree Felony: Property value $300,000 or more. Penalty: 5 to 99 years or life in TDCJ prison and/or fine up to $10,000.
It’s important to note that specific theft crimes like Robbery and Burglary have their own felony classifications and penalty ranges, which are detailed on their dedicated pages. For theft offenses based on value, Learn the differences for each of the Criminal Penalties for Theft in Harris County.
Beyond Legal Penalties: Long-Term Consequences
In addition to legal penalties, a felony or misdemeanor conviction for theft can create significant obstacles in your life. It can make it difficult to secure a loan, get a job, find a place to live, and may impact professional licenses. It is important to be informed about your rights, the possible consequences, and what you should do to protect yourself if you find yourself accused of or charged with any type of theft in Houston.
Understand the specific penalties for your theft charge. Contact a Houston attorney.
The Stages of a Theft Case
Having good legal advice and aggressive representation through the stages of your theft case in Harris County can make all the difference in your chances of a successful outcome. No matter how minor the charge, you need an attorney who is well-versed in criminal defense and understands how the prosecution will build its case against you in a Houston courtroom.
A very common mistake is talking to the police without a lawyer present, and it is a mistake that can affect the rest of your defense. As a result, you need legal representation before you talk to the police, no matter what “friendly” officers might tell you.
There are three main stages to a theft case. An experienced lawyer like Lisa Shapiro Strauss will:
Key Stages of a Theft Case
- Investigate Your Case: Re-interviewing witnesses, gathering evidence, and assessing the evidence that the police and prosecutors in Harris County have brought against you.
- Formulate a Strategy: Based on the exact circumstances of your case, she will develop a tailored defense strategy.
- Court Appearances: Representing you through court appearances, where you will absolutely want a tenacious attorney to negotiate on your behalf or represent you at trial.
Building Your Defense Against Theft Allegations
Fighting a theft charge effectively requires more than just understanding the law; it requires building a solid defense strategy based on the specific facts of your case and the evidence presented by the prosecution in Harris County.
Potential defenses against theft charges in Texas vary depending on the specifics of the accusation and the type of theft involved. Common defenses that may be applicable include:
Common Defense Strategies
- Lack of Intent: Arguing that you did not intend to permanently deprive the owner of the property.
- Mistake of Fact: Believing the property was yours or you had permission to take it.
- Ownership Dispute: Demonstrating that you had a claim of ownership to the property.
- Lack of Possession: Arguing that you were never in actual or constructive possession of the stolen property.
- Insufficient Evidence: Challenging whether the prosecution has met their burden of proving every element of the charge.
- False Accusations: Presenting evidence that the allegations are untrue.
A thorough investigation into the circumstances of the alleged theft, including reviewing surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, is crucial to identifying the most viable defense strategy for your case in Houston.
Build Your Defense Against Theft Charges. Contact Our Houston Office.
Why Choose Lisa Shapiro Strauss for Your Theft Defense?
When your future is on the line due to a theft accusation in Houston or Harris County, you need a defense attorney with the right experience and understanding of the local legal system. Lisa Shapiro Strauss offers the critical qualifications to fight for you.
The Former Prosecutor Advantage
Lisa’s background as a Former Harris County Prosecutor provides her with unique insight into how the State approaches and prosecutes theft cases. She understands the evidence they look for, the strategies they employ, and how plea bargaining decisions are made within the Harris County District Attorney’s Office. This allows her to anticipate their moves and build a more effective defense strategy for your case in a Houston courtroom.
Extensive Experience in Theft Cases
With Over 25 Years of Legal Experience as a criminal defense attorney, Lisa has handled hundreds of theft cases, ranging from misdemeanor shoplifting to complex felony fraud and robbery charges. She understands the nuances of each type of theft and the most effective defense strategies.
Local Knowledge of Harris County Courts
Lisa’s extensive practice in Harris County courts means she is familiar with the judges, prosecutors, and court staff specific to this jurisdiction. This local knowledge is a significant asset in navigating the legal process efficiently and effectively on your behalf.
As your dedicated Houston theft attorney, Lisa Shapiro Strauss is committed to using her experience and local knowledge to protect your rights, minimize consequences, and safeguard your future.
Answers to Your Theft Charge Questions
Facing theft charges can bring up many questions. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions for clients in Houston, Texas:
How Do Prior Convictions Affect Houston Theft Cases?
Prior theft convictions can significantly increase the penalties for a new theft charge in Texas, often enhancing a misdemeanor to a higher-level misdemeanor or even a felony. The prosecution in Harris County will consider your criminal history when evaluating your case and making plea offers.
What To Expect From A Theft Case?
A theft case in Houston typically involves several stages after arrest, including arraignment, pre-trial hearings, discovery (exchanging evidence), negotiation with the prosecutor, and potentially trial. The process can be lengthy and complex.
Getting a Theft Case Dismissed in Houston?
It may be possible to get a theft case dismissed in Houston depending on the specific facts, the strength of the evidence against you, and the defense strategy employed. This could involve exploring options like pretrial diversion, challenging the elements of the crime, filing motions to suppress evidence, or negotiating with the prosecution.
How much theft is a felony in Texas?
In Texas, theft becomes a felony when the value of the stolen property is $2,500 or more, or if the property is of a specific type (like a firearm or certain livestock), regardless of value. The felony degree (State Jail, 3rd, 2nd, or 1st Degree) depends on the value or type of property.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor theft charge?
Yes, even misdemeanor theft convictions can have lasting negative impacts on your record, making it harder to get jobs or housing. An attorney can help explore options like dismissal, reduction, or diversion programs that may keep a conviction off your record.
Harris County Theft Charge Case Results
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes, but they can demonstrate the type of representation and dedication our firm provides. Lisa Shapiro Strauss has achieved favorable outcomes for clients facing theft charges in Houston and Harris County.
Get Help From a Houston Theft Lawyer Today
If you are facing theft charges in Houston or Harris County, do not underestimate the potential consequences. A conviction can negatively impact your ability to get a job, find housing, and pursue educational goals. You need experienced legal help to protect your rights and your future.
Lisa Shapiro Strauss is a dedicated Houston theft attorney with a deep understanding of Texas theft laws and the nuances of defending these cases in Harris County courts. With Over 25 Years of Legal Experience and valuable insight as a Former Prosecutor, she is prepared to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
Don’t let a theft charge define your future. Contact the law offices of Lisa Shapiro Strauss today for a free initial consultation to review the details in your case. Call (713) 449-9922 to arrange a confidential discussion.
Contact our Houston office now to discuss your defense strategy confidentially.
