Hempstead Theft Lawyer

Hempstead Theft Attorney

Theft involves taking another person’s goods or property, such as money, valuables, or vehicles. Penalties vary in Texas, depending on the severity of the crime and the value of the stolen items. Our Hempstead, TX, theft lawyer understands that the legal process involved in a criminal charge can be overwhelming to navigate and is here to provide support.

The Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC is here to help if you are facing theft charges. You may have questions about the legal process and what rights you have. Our goal is to make sure you understand your rights and provide a solid defense to get your charges dropped or lessen sentencing in the event that a criminal charge is imminent.

Texas Misdemeanor Theft Laws

In Texas, the value of the stolen goods determines the sentence in a theft case. The state also varies sentencing based on the type of theft, such as intellectual property, cargo, retail theft, or an instance of fraud.

Texas separates misdemeanor theft charges into three classes and their accompanying penalties.

• Class C Misdemeanor: This charge is the least serious of the three classifications and occurs when the total value of property stolen is less than $100. Penalties for a Class C misdemeanor generally involve a fine of up to $500 and paying restitution to the victim. This charge does not require jail time.
• Class B Misdemeanor: If the stolen property value ranges from $100-$750, the penalty could involve up to 180 days of county jail time and a fine of no more than $2,000. A Class B misdemeanor charge might also be issued if the property value equals less than $100, but the defendant has had other theft convictions.
• Class A Misdemeanor: Stolen property totaling $750-$2,500 comes with a Class A misdemeanor charge and up to $4,000 in fines and potentially one year in county jail.

While a misdemeanor conviction is not as severe as a felony charge, a misdemeanor still stays on your public record for your lifetime. It can affect your job or future housing applications and your right to purchase or own a firearm in Texas.

Texas Felony Theft Laws

Felony charges occur when the amount of stolen property ranges from $2,500-$30,000. Repeat offenders might also receive a felony charge if the amount falls below this range. There are certain types of theft that qualify for a felony theft charge, including firearms, election ballots, livestock, or grave robbery.

Felony charges further breakdown by degree.

• Third-Degree Felony: This charge applies to defendants who stole goods or property totaling $30,000-$150,000, livestock with a value of less than $150,000, or a controlled substance from a commercial building with a value of less than $150,000. Penalties can include a fine of $10,000 or less, and prison time of 2-10 years.
• Second-Degree Felony: If the stolen property totals range $150,000-$300,000, consequences can include fines of up to $10,000 and a prison sentence of up to 20 years.
• First-Degree Felony: For stolen goods totaling over $300,000, the sentence might include 5-99 years of prison time and a fine of up to $10,000.

In each of these instances, the defendant is also responsible for paying statutory damages as determined by state law.

Why Do I Need a Hempstead Theft Lawyer?

A theft conviction stays on your public record for the duration of your life and can keep you from being considered for a new job if the employer requests a background check.

If you are charged with a theft crime in Texas, you need a skilled lawyer in your corner to help defend your case in court. Your theft lawyer in Hempstead, TX, can assess your situation and determine if there is sufficient evidence to convict you.

Our dedicated legal team at the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, examines whether evidence exists to prove your intent or whether you were forced into the crime through threats, blackmail, or law enforcement actions. In the event that you receive criminal charges for your theft case, an experienced theft lawyer can negotiate a plea bargain to reduce your overall sentencing.

FAQs About Hempstead, TX Theft Laws

How Do You Get a Theft Charge Dropped?

To get a theft charge dropped, an experienced Hempstead, TX, theft lawyer can build a robust case to defend you. A defense against the charges could include insufficient evidence to convict you, such as unreliable witnesses or video surveillance footage. There might not be any physical evidence against you, or the evidence could have been collected unlawfully.

Is Theft Over $500 a Felony in Texas?

Theft over $500 is not necessarily a felony in Texas. In general, stolen goods totaling under $2,500 qualifies as a misdemeanor charge. However, a misdemeanor can become a felony if there are prior theft convictions, controlled substances are involved, or if specific items are stolen, such as a firearm, election ballot, livestock, or items from a grave.

Is it Worth Pressing Charges for Theft?

When determining if it is worth it to press charges for theft, an individual might consider the severity of the crime and the value of what was taken from them. Because of the time and costs involved in the legal process, they may decide it might not be worth it to press charges for a small loss.

How Long After a Theft Can You Be Charged in Texas?

The statute of limitations varies depending on the severity and type of crime. Generally, theft charges must be pressed within five years of the date the crime was committed. However, the severity of the crime may affect the statute of limitations, or certain circumstances might pause the time frame. It is wise to seek help from a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney for your specific case.

Contact a Hempstead, TX, Theft Lawyer – Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC

It is crucial to contact a Hempstead, TX, theft lawyer right away when you are facing a theft charge. At the Law Office of Joseph Ruiz, PLLC, we can discuss the charges against you and what the legal process might look like in your case. We can start building a strong defense and make sure you understand your rights. Contact our experienced legal team today for your free consultation.