Houston Theft Crimes Lawyer

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 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 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 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.