A felony theft charge in Texas doesn’t just threaten your freedom – it can impact your job, your reputation, and your future opportunities. Whether the accusation stems from a misunderstanding, financial hardship, or a single mistake, the consequences can be severe. Many people facing theft charges never imagined they would be in this situation, but now they’re left wondering what happens next.
At M|C Criminal Law, we know that every theft case has its own story. Maybe the facts aren’t as clear-cut as the prosecution claims, or perhaps law enforcement overstepped in their investigation. No matter the circumstances, you deserve a legal team that will fight for you. Our felony theft attorneys have the experience and strategic approach needed to challenge the charges against you and work toward the best possible outcome.
If you’re facing felony theft allegations in Texas, don’t wait – contact us today to protect your future.
Theft is defined in the Texas Penal Code, Title 7, Section 31.03; this statute states that ‘A person commits an offense if he unlawfully appropriates property with intent to deprive the owner of property.’
In simpler terms, theft occurs when someone takes property that does not belong to them, with no intention of returning it. Under Texas law, appropriation of property is considered unlawful in the following situations:
Theft can cover a broad range of conduct, from shoplifting to embezzlement to misappropriation of funds. The severity of theft charges depends on several factors, but at its core, theft always involves the unauthorized taking of property with the intent to permanently deprive the rightful owner.
Theft can be a misdemeanor, but theft becomes a felony in Texas when the value of the stolen property is $2,500 or more. The severity of the charge increases as the value of the property rises. Additionally, the stolen property falls into certain protected categories. Some types of property trigger felony charges regardless of value, such as firearms or certain metals. Prior convictions are also important; if a person has two or more previous theft convictions, a new theft offense can be enhanced to a felony.
Texas law categorizes felony theft into four levels, each with increasing penalties:
Felony theft convictions can have lasting consequences beyond prison time and fines. A felony record can impact employment, housing, and professional licensing, making an effective legal defense critical.
In addition to the value or type of property that was stolen, certain other aggravating factors can enhance theft charges. If the alleged theft involves specific circumstances that increase the severity of the offense, the penalties may be elevated beyond the standard felony classifications.
One common aggravating factor is theft involving vulnerable individuals, such as the elderly or disabled. Texas law imposes harsher penalties when the victim belongs to a protected group, as these crimes are seen as particularly exploitative. Similarly, theft committed in certain locations, such as places of worship, schools, or government buildings, can lead to enhanced charges due to the perceived impact on the community.
If a theft is linked to organized criminal activity, the penalties can also increase significantly. Prosecutors often seek harsher sentences for those accused of committing theft as part of a larger scheme or criminal enterprise. Likewise, theft committed by a public servant in connection with their official duties is treated more severely under Texas law, as it represents a violation of public trust.
These enhancements can turn what might otherwise be a lower-level felony into a more serious charge with increased prison time and fines. A strong legal defense by an experienced felony theft lawyer is critical in these cases to challenge the prosecution’s claims and fight for the best possible outcome.
If you are charged with felony theft in Texas, a strong defense strategy can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Experienced theft and robbery lawyers know which defense to employ depending on the circumstances of your case.
Mistaken identity is a common defense, as theft charges often rely on witness testimony or surveillance footage that may not clearly identify the suspect. In some cases, the accused may have had a legitimate claim to the property, leading to a misunderstanding rather than a criminal act.
Additionally, violations of constitutional rights, such as unlawful search and seizure or improper police procedures, can result in evidence being suppressed and charges being reduced or dismissed. At M|C Criminal Law, our team has extensive experience handling complex felony theft cases across Texas.
We understand the high stakes involved and are committed to providing an aggressive and strategic defense for every client. With a deep knowledge of Texas theft laws and a track record of successful case results, our attorneys know how to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and advocate for your rights.
A felony theft conviction can have lifelong consequences, but with the right legal representation, you have options. Contact M|C Criminal Law today to discuss your case and start building a defense that protects your future.
