Shoplifting Charges
Our Pearland Theft Crimes Lawyer Can Defend You Against Criminal Charges
In Texas, shoplifting offenses are actively judged and punishable as theft crimes per Texas Penal Code Section 31.03. In a shoplifting case, the prosecution must prove that the defendant intended to deprive the rightful owner (the business) of its property.
Shoplifting offenses include, but are not limited to:
- Stealing items
- Altering or switching price tags
- Fraudulently returning a product
- Intentionally writing bad checks
Shoplifting charges often lead to overwhelming and detrimental legal consequences and penalties. If you’re facing shoplifting charges in Texas, your future may depend on the skills and resources of an experienced theft crimes attorney. At Locke Law Firm, our Pearland theft crimes lawyer can investigate your case and fiercely defend your legal rights in court.
Call our Pearland theft crimes attorney at (832) 308-7623 to schedule a free consultation.
Understanding Theft Charges
The potential penalties for a theft charge vary depending on your prior criminal offenses and the value of the appropriated property. Because Texas law determines theft based on intent, you can be charged with a crime even if you didn’t leave the store with the property. For example, if an employee or security camera catches you pocketing merchandise, you have effectively committed an act of theft.
You can also face shoplifting charges if you assisted or encouraged the shoplifter. For instance, you may be considered liable if you acted as a “look out” or helped a friend escape the premises. In these circumstances, you are legally considered an accomplice and equally responsible for the theft.
Texas Shoplifting Penalties
Class C misdemeanor
- Theft of goods is valued at less than $50
- Punishable by fines up to $500
Class B misdemeanor
- Theft of goods is valued between $50-$500
- Punishable by fines up to $2,000
- Up to 180 days in jail
Class A misdemeanor
- Theft of goods is valued between $500-$1,500
- Punishable by fines up to $4,000
- Up to 365 days in jail
State Jail Felony
- Theft of goods is valued between $1,500-$20,000
- Punishable by fines up to $10,000
- 180 days-2 years in jail
Third Degree Felony
- Theft of goods is valued between $20,000-$100,000
- Punishable by fines up to $10,000
- 2-10 years in jail
Second Degree Felony
- Theft of goods is valued between $100,000-$200,000
- Punishable by fines up to $10,000
- 2-20 years in jail
First Degree Felony
- Theft of goods is valued over $200,000
- Punishable by fines up to $10,000
- 5-99 years in jail
Retailers and business owners can also pursue additional damages by filing civil lawsuits against shoplifters. For example, an adult shoplifter can be sued for actual damages and additional damages up to $1,000. Likewise, the parents and guardians of child shoplifters can be sued for additional damages up to $5,000.
Seek Defense Representation
Without legal assistance, a theft charge will stay on your criminal record for the rest of your life. Protect your future by calling Locke Law Firm today. In the last 15 years, our firm has successfully won numerous theft crimes cases. Our experienced Pearland theft crimes lawyer has the skills and resources to develop a personalized defense strategy specific to your case. With our skilled legal team in your corner, you may be able to get your charges reduced or dropped!
Contact Locke Law Firm todayat (832) 308-7623. We offer convenient evening and weekend appointments.