Call Us Now
Email Us Now
Protecting Clients’ Rights
Theft crimes cover a wide range of criminal charges that could be brought against a person in Texas. If you or your loved one is facing criminal theft charges, especially with prior theft convictions, you need an excellent criminal defense attorney who understands Texas law and can help you avoid the most serious sentencing.
Felony theft charges can land you in prison for up to 99 years, also known as a lifetime sentence. You may also be levied hefty fines and have a criminal record that haunts you for the rest of your life. However, there is hope when fighting Texas theft charges when you work with a criminal defense attorney who understands the criminal justice system and has the confidence necessary to fight for you.
At Metzger Law Firm, PLLC, we are prepared to fight tooth and nail for a favorable outcome in your theft crimes case. Our lead defense lawyer has spent over a decade protecting clients from harsh sentences under Texas laws. We can help whether you are facing a shoplifting charge, white-collar crimes charge, burglary, or writing bad checks. We know what it takes to win and promise to leverage our knowledge, skill, and honesty when fighting for you. Contact our talented, compassionate legal team today if you are accused of committing theft. You can reach us at 713-597-2677 to schedule a free consultation.
What Constitutes a Theft Crime in Texas?
Being convicted of a theft crime in Texas can negatively impact the rest of your life, including whether you can obtain gainful employment or keep custody of your children. Fighting theft charges is possible, but it is essential to first understand the theft charge brought against you. Hiring an experienced criminal defense attorney is a great first step in understanding and defeating your theft charges.
Theft Crimes in Texas
The basic definition of theft under Texas law is that a person has taken possession of anything that does not belong to them without permission. Taking another person’s property without permission includes robbery, which is stealing an item by taking it from a person by force or threat of force. Shoplifting, vandalism, and violation of copyright laws also constitute theft. Acting with the intent to deprive may also be considered theft under Texas law.
Fraud
Criminal fraud is another form of theft that has its own category because of the unique nature of these crimes. Fraud can be defined as misrepresenting your identity to obtain money or property that is not rightfully yours.
Some examples of fraud include:
- Identity theft
- Insurance fraud
- Credit card fraud
- Mortgage fraud
- Pharmacy fraud
- Computer fraud
- Worker’s comp fraud
These crimes may result in charges ranging from misdemeanor to felony theft charges. If you are accused of theft offenses in Texas, please call a criminal lawyer immediately to get the protection and representation you need at this critical time.
What Defenses Can I Use to Defeat My Theft Crime Charges?
Many theft charges can be defeated through a solid defense prepared by a skilled criminal defense attorney. Even if you can’t get your case dismissed, most theft crimes can be reduced from the original charge, such as getting a first-degree felony lowered to a third-degree felony, lowering your sentence, and decreasing the jail time and fines you must pay.
Some examples of defenses that can help in many criminal cases include:
- Ownership – You can avoid many civil penalties by proving you are the owner of the item that was allegedly stolen.
- Mistaken identity – Another defense is to show that you are not the person who committed the crime.
- Entrapment – If a police officer pressured you to commit theft, you may avoid conviction by proving entrapment.
- Duress – You may also get your sentence reduced or have your case thrown out by proving you were acting under duress or threat of harm.
Remember that the onus is on the prosecution to prove that you committed a crime without a reasonable doubt. Working with a trusted criminal defense lawyer can help establish doubt, preventing the judge from sentencing you according to the full extent of the law.
What Penalties Come with a Theft Crime Conviction in Texas?
If you are charged with theft, you may worry about what penalties will come with a conviction. Theft charges range from a Class C misdemeanor to first-degree felony theft. Depending on the value of the goods stolen, the theft penalties are anywhere from days in jail to a lifetime in federal prison. Felony theft charges can result in fines of up to $10,000.
Additionally, the permanent mark on your criminal record might affect your ability to obtain and keep employment. You could face stigma preventing you from enjoying your social life, and you might not be able to keep custody of your children. Call our law firm immediately to learn more about how to get your sentencing lowered or have your case dismissed entirely.
Should You Hire Our Theft Crime Defense Attorneys?
When you or your loved one faces charges for Texas theft, you need immediate and skilled legal help. Our team of criminal defense attorneys has helped many clients like you avoid the worst sentencing or even see all charges dropped. Defense lawyer Mark Metzger III uses his determination, legal prowess, and knowledge based on over ten years of experience to offer his clients excellent legal representation.
Led by Attorney Metzger, our team of skilled attorneys is prepared to fight aggressively against the theft charges you are facing. Whether you were arrested for burglary, white-collar crimes, identity theft, or other theft crimes, we will investigate carefully to find evidence that you do not deserve the strictest penalties. Call 713-597-2677 now to schedule a confidential consultation and learn more about how our caring, capable legal team can help you.