Theft Defense

Texas Theft Defense Attorneys in Houston

Theft is an offense that involves unlawfully appropriating property with the intent to deprive the owner of said property. Theft is a prevalent crime in Houston. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, theft is the highest reported crime in the State of Texas. At Walter J. Pink & Associates, a team of the best Houston theft attorneys, we have handled thousands of cases and achieved hundreds of dismissals for our clients. It is paramount that you call Walter J. Pink & Associates so that we can try and save your record, your occupational and financial potential, as well as your livelihood.  

Defining Theft in Houston

Theft in the state of Texas can be found in the Texas Penal Code (TPC) § 31.03 which states, in part: 

1. A person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of the property.
2. Appropriation is unlawful if:
   1. It is without the owner’s effective consent;
   2. The property is stolen and the actor appropriated the property knowing it was stolen by another; or
   3. Property in the custody of any law enforcement agency was explicitly represented by any law enforcement agent to the actor as being stolen and the actor appropriates the property believing it was stolen by another. 

The difference between theft and robbery is in the methodology of “unlawfully appropriating” the property in question. A robbery is when the appropriating and taking of property involves force, physical harm, threats, and/or coercion. Theft is expansive and has many forms including shoplifting, theft of services, embezzling, extortion, receiving stolen goods, and borrowing something without the intent of returning, among others.

The punishment for theft depends on the value of the property involved, because of this, the classification of theft can be as low as a Class C misdemeanor, with a punishment range of up to a $500 fine, when less than $50 is involved to a first-degree felony, a punishment range of 5 to 99 years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ), when $200,000 or more is involved.

Potential Consequences of a Theft Conviction

The penalties for theft in Houston vary based on the classification:

1. Class C Misdemeanor: A fine of up to $500.
2. Class B Misdemeanor: Up to 180 days in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
3. Class A Misdemeanor: Up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000.
4. State Jail Felony: 180 days to 2 years in state jail and a fine of up to $10,000.
5. Third-Degree Felony: 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
6. Second-Degree Felony:2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
7. First-Degree Felony:5 to 99 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

The Role of a Houston Theft Defense Attorney

Facing theft charges in Houston necessitates the mastery of a seasoned defense attorney:

1. Case Evaluation: An experienced attorney can assess the specifics of your case, identifying potential defense strategies.
2. Evidence Analysis: Scrutinizing every piece of evidence, from surveillance footage to witness testimonies, is crucial in building a robust defense.
3. Legal Defense Strategy: Crafting a compelling defense strategy can significantly influence the case outcome. This could involve arguing mistaken identity, lack of intent, or even challenging the valuation of stolen items.
4. Court Representation: In the courtroom, a defense attorney advocates on behalf of the accused, presenting a counter-narrative to the prosecution's claims.

In Conclusion

Theft charges in Houston carry significant legal and personal implications. Understanding the nature of the offense, potential penalties and the importance of brilliant legal representation is paramount. With the guidance of a dedicated Houston theft defense attorney, individuals can navigate the complexities of the legal system, ensuring that their rights are protected and that they receive a fair and just trial.

If you or a loved one are accused of any of the crimes listed on this page, or any crime at all, your life can be irrevocably changed, your liberties stripped, and your pursuit of happiness hindered. For these reasons, you and your family can not just trust anyone with such a serious life-altering matter. At Walter J. Pink & Associates, we have received dismissals for our clients in Houston, Harris County, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Richmond, Fort Bend County, Pearland, Brazoria County, Galveston, Galveston County, Austin, Travis County, Dallas, Dallas County, Amarillo, Lubbock, Montgomery County, and fight cases anywhere else in this great state of Texas.

Remember, if you or a loved one has been accused of a criminal offense, it’s important not to speak with anyone, especially the police or investigators, until you have contacted our office. At the law firm of Walter J. Pink & Associates, PC, you can rest assured your good name and best interests are in good hands! Call us immediately to set up a free consultation and allow us to use our vast knowledge, mental tools, and legal weapons to save your freedom, save your right to pursue happiness, and save your life. The Law Firm For Your Future, 713-664-6651.