Misdemeanor theft in Texas is less serious than a felony, but it still needs to be taken seriously, as it carries the potential for significant consequences. Whether you are accused of shoplifting, taking something you didn’t think would be noticed, or simply made a bad decision in a moment of need, a theft conviction can affect your future in ways you might not anticipate. Even minor theft charges can lead to fines, jail time, and long-lasting damage to your reputation.
At M|C Criminal Law, we understand that everyone makes mistakes and not every theft charge is valid. Our experienced Texas theft defense attorneys are here to make sure that your rights are protected, that the facts are fully explored, and that we pursue the best possible outcome on your behalf. If you’re facing misdemeanor theft charges, don’t let this charge control your future. Let us provide the strong legal defense you deserve.
In Texas, the levels of theft are classified based on the value of the stolen property. When the property involved in a theft is valued at less than $1,500, the offense is typically classified as a misdemeanor. Texas law divides misdemeanor theft into three categories:
Although it may seem like a small offense, it is important to remember that theft charges can escalate depending on the circumstances, and charges involving things like identification cards or firearms can have their own rules and penalties.
The state of Texas is known for treating all offenses seriously and misdemeanor theft is no exception. The penalties vary based on the value of the stolen property:
Yes, misdemeanor theft charges in Texas carry lighter penalties than felonies, but the repercussions make it clear that these offenses require serious attention and experienced legal representation.
A misdemeanor theft conviction can go far beyond fines and jail time. Even a misdemeanor record can affect various aspects of your life, including:
It’s important to address these charges early with the help of skilled Texas misdemeanor theft attorneys to minimize any long-term impact.
Misdemeanor theft charges can sometimes be dismissed or reduced, especially if the evidence against you is weak or if there are extenuating circumstances. For one, if there is insufficient evidence to prove your involvement in the theft, the charges may be dropped. In some cases, paying restitution to the victim may convince the prosecution to drop the charges or seek a reduced sentence.
For first-time offenders, Texas courts may offer diversion programs that allow individuals to avoid a criminal record in exchange for completing community service or counseling. However, all of this is contingent on presenting a good case – this is only possible by having expert misdemeanor theft attorneys representing you.
Experienced defense attorneys can often negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or secure an alternative sentence that avoids jail time.
At M|C Criminal Law, we provide experienced defense against misdemeanor theft charges in Texas. Our theft and robbery lawyers will thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s argument, and explore every available defense. There are many defenses we can and will employ, including:
With a reputation for aggressive defense and a proven track record in theft cases, our attorneys know how to build strong cases to protect your future. If you are facing misdemeanor theft charges in Texas, don’t wait – contact M|C Criminal Law today to begin building your defense.
