Downtown Houston Theft Crimes Lawyer

Comprehensive Defense for Burglary, Robbery, & Theft Charges

Chapter 31 of Title 7 of the Texas Penal Code states that "theft" as defined in section 3 of the same chapter:

"Constitutes a single offense superseding the separate offenses previously known as theft, theft by false pretext, conversion by a bailee, theft from the person, shoplifting, acquisition of property by threat, swindling, swindling by worthless check, embezzlement, extortion, receiving or concealing embezzled property, and receiving or concealing stolen property."

This is a very important piece of the law, as it separates a number of seemingly similar offenses into distinct legal categories and labels, which creates various and more accurate definitions and punishments for each crime. However, put more loosely, theft is defined as appropriating or taking property or services from another without consent of theirs, and with intent to deprive the other of their property, in other words intentionally "receiving" a product, property, or service and knowingly and willingly not paying for it.

Regardless of what kind of theft crimes may be pending against you, securing a qualified Downtown Houston criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible is essential. You need to get adequate representation to ensure your chances of securing a favorable outcome in your trial.

Types of Theft Charges in Texas

The legal landscape surrounding theft in Texas can be intricate, with varying degrees of severity depending on the nature of the offense and the value of the stolen property. Understanding these nuances is crucial for anyone facing potential accusations or seeking to navigate related legal matters.

What is the Charge of Theft in Downtown Houston, Texas?

In Texas, the theft charge depends on the value of the stolen property:

Class C misdemeanor: Stealing property valued at $50 or less
Class B misdemeanor: Stealing property valued between $50 and $500
Class A misdemeanor: Stealing property valued between $500 and $1,500
State jail felony: Stealing property valued between $1,500 and $20,000
State jail felony: Stealing property valued between $2,500 and $30,000

Theft can also become a felony if the alleged offender has prior theft convictions or a specific object was taken.

What is the Charge of Theft in Downtown Houston, Texas?

In Texas, a person convicted of theft between $2,500 and $30,000 may face a sentence of 180 days to two years in state prison. They may also face a fine of up to $20,000.

Other theft charges in Texas include:

Misdemeanor Theft:
- Class C: For items below $100, punishable by a fine up to $500.
- Class B: For items between $100 and $750, potentially incurring a fine of $2,000 and 180 days in jail.
- Class A: For items between $750 and $2,500, possibly leading to a $4,000 fine and one year in jail.
Felony Theft:
- State Jail Felony: For items between $2,500 and $30,000, or specific items like firearms or involving fraud, resulting in up to two years in state jail.
Higher Felonies: The severity and potential prison sentences escalate for thefts beyond this value, reaching life imprisonment for items exceeding $300,000.

However, specific circumstances like tampering with identification numbers, identity theft, or stolen firearms can also influence the charge and penalties.

Can a Theft Charge Be Expunged in Texas?

In Texas, a legal process called expunction, or expungement, can erase or seal criminal records, including theft convictions.

To remove a misdemeanor conviction from a record in Texas, a person must petition the court. The petition requires compliance with all the necessary conditions, such as serving jail time, community service hours, and paying fines and reimbursement.

The Theft Defense Lawyer, Alexander J. Houthuijzen, is Ready to Fight for You!

If you are facing burglary, larceny, or robbery charges, do not delay. Call Alexander J. Houthuijzen, Attorney-at-Law.

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Why All This Legal Language Here for You?

Two more legal phrases come to mind: Intent and proof Beyond A Reasonable Doubt, which is the legal standard that needs to be met before a person can be found guilty and convicted of any crime. A smart, calculating, and caring attorney with an up to date knowledge of the criminal justice system and the criminal justice statutes in the state of Texas can help the defendants accused of theft in Downtown Houston or Harris County courts to ensure the evidence against them is legally obtained and that it meets the required standards. And these are just some of the technicalities that a criminal defense attorney like Alex Houthuijzen can utilize in defense of those wrongly accused of theft, burglary, or other similar crimes.

Arrange for a free case evaluation with our Downtown Houston lawyer at Alex the Defender by contacting us online or by phone at (713) 999-3655. Hablamos español.

Contact Alex the Defender Today

If you or, a loved one, or a friend have been accused of theft crimes in Downtown Houston, Texas, it is in your best interest to immediately contact a Harris County defense attorney like Alex, and receive a FREE case review to see if you have any legitimate defenses considering the circumstances of the case. And as always remember, anything you ever say to law enforcement, the DA team, or any agents of the court can end up literally being used against you.

We Are Here For You

"A lot of lawyers write on their websites that they "fight" and that they work "tirelessly" for their clients. The truth is that being a lawyer is more than just fighting or working tirelessly. It's knowing what to do at the right moment to get a fantastic result for a client. I go to trial if I have to. I fight if I have to. But most of the time, my job is to help people who cannot help themselves."

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Alexander J. Houthuijzen, Attorney-at-Law

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