Theft
Theft can range from a misdemeanor to a felony in the state of Texas. Many different offenses are classified as theft including, but not limited to, shoplifting, buying or accepting stolen property and bouncing checks. Simply put, theft is defined as taking the property of another without consent.
A charge for a petty theft or shoplifting crime with no criminal history is usually classified as a misdemeanor. If convicted, you can be faced with a fine, restitution, probation, or jail time. Depending on the situation, a lawyer may be able to help you minimize these penalties.
If you have been charged with theft or shoplifting, you may have many questions. Please call our office today for a free consultation. We can review your case and go over your options to find the best possible solution for you.
FREE CONSULTATION ON TEXAS THEFT AND SHOPLIFTING CASES
Don't face the judicial system alone. Having an attorney on your side can make a world of difference. Please contact us today to find out what we can do for you.
Law Offices of Ronald A. Ramos – Theft & Shoplifting Defense
San Antonio, TX: (210) 308-8811
Laws Regarding Theft in Texas (Summary)
Sec. 31.03. THEFT.
(a) A person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.
(b) Appropriation of property is unlawful if:
(1) it is without the owner's effective consent;
(2) the property is stolen and the actor appropriates 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.
(e) Except as provided by Subsection
(f), an offense under this section is:
(1) [amended 9/1/95] a Class C misdemeanor if the value of the property stolen is less than: (A) $50; or
(B) $20 and the defendant obtained the property by issuing or passing a check or similar sight order in a manner described by Section 31.06;
(2) [amended 9/1/95] a Class B misdemeanor if:
(A) the value of the property stolen is:
(i) $50 or more but less than $500; or
(ii) $20 or more but less than $500 and the defendant obtained the property by issuing or passing a check or similar sight order in a manner described by Section 31.06; or
(B) the value of the property stolen is less than:
(i) $50 and the defendant has previously been convicted of any grade of theft; or
(ii) $20, the defendant has previously been convicted of any grade of theft, and the defendant obtained the property by issuing or passing a check or similar sight order in a manner described by Section 31.06;