Southlake Theft Crime Lawyer

Aggressive Defense against Theft-Related Charges

If you are facing theft charges, you are probably feeling worried and anxious about the future. You are facing the possibility of jail time and a criminal record, which could make it difficult to find a job or secure a favorable loan in the future.

If you or a loved one is facing theft charges in Southlake, TX, it's essential to act quickly and secure the services of an experienced and skilled theft crime lawyer. The Law Office Of Mark M. Childress is a leading criminal defense firm specializing in theft crimes, with a solid track record of success in defending clients throughout Texas. We understand the stress and uncertainty that come with being accused of theft, and our team is dedicated to providing personalized and aggressive legal representation to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

Call (817) 497-8148 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our legal team.

What is Theft in Texas?

In Texas, theft is generally defined as the unlawful appropriation of someone else's property with the intent to deprive the owner of its value or possession.

Here are some common types of theft crimes:

• Shoplifting and Retail Theft: Shoplifting involves stealing merchandise from a retail store without paying for it. Retail theft can also include altering price tags or switching packaging to pay a lower price for an item. Shoplifting is one of the most common types of theft crimes.
• Burglary: Burglary occurs when someone unlawfully enters a building, structure, or dwelling with the intent to commit a theft, assault, or another felony inside. It's important to note that burglary does not necessarily involve stealing; the mere intent to commit a crime inside the premises is sufficient for the charge.
• Robbery: Unlike theft, robbery involves the use of force, intimidation, or threat to take property from another person directly. This crime typically occurs in person and can lead to more severe penalties due to the violent nature of the offense.
• Auto Theft: Auto theft, also known as grand theft auto, is the act of stealing a motor vehicle belonging to someone else. This can include cars, trucks, motorcycles, and other types of vehicles.
• Identity Theft: Identity theft is a non-physical form of theft where a person's personal information, such as their Social Security number, credit card details, or financial data, is stolen and used to commit fraud or other illegal activities.
• Embezzlement: Embezzlement involves the misappropriation of funds or property that a person has been entrusted to manage or safeguard. This type of theft often occurs in a business or organizational setting where an employee or manager abuses their position to steal money or assets.
• Petty Theft and Grand Theft: Theft crimes are often categorized based on the value of the stolen property. Petty theft, also known as petit theft, involves stealing items of relatively low value, while grand theft involves stealing items of higher value.
• White-Collar Theft: This category includes various non-violent theft crimes committed in a professional or business setting. White-collar theft may involve financial fraud, insider trading, or other illegal activities that aim to gain monetary advantage through deceit.
• Larceny: Larceny is a general term for theft crimes involving the unlawful taking and carrying away of someone else's property without their consent and with the intent to permanently deprive them of it.
• Receiving Stolen Property: This crime involves knowingly receiving, buying, or possessing stolen property with the awareness that it was stolen.

The severity of the offense and the corresponding penalties depend on the value and type of the stolen property.

The following is an overview of the penalties for theft based on the amount of the stolen property:

• Less than $100 - Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500.
• $100 or more but less than $750 - Class B misdemeanor, which carries up to 180 days in county jail and/or a fine of up to $2,000.
• $750 or more but less than $2,500 - Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in county jail and/or a fine of up to $4,000.
• $2,500 or more but less than $30,000, or less than $2,500 with previous theft convictions - State jail felony, which carries 180 days to two years in state jail and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• $30,000 or more but less than $150,000 - Third-degree felony, punishable by two to ten years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• $150,000 or more but less than $300,000 - Second-degree felony, which carries two to 20 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
• $300,000 or more - First-degree felony, punishable by five to 99 years in prison and/or a fine of up to $10,000.

Call a Theft Defense Attorney in Southlake, TX

Being charged with a theft crime can have severe consequences, affecting various aspects of your life, including your reputation, employment, and personal relationships. In Texas, theft crimes are taken seriously, and the penalties can be harsh, ranging from fines and probation to lengthy prison sentences, depending on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the offense.

Having a skilled Southlake theft crime lawyer on your side is crucial to navigate the complex legal system and mount a strong defense against the charges.

If you or a loved one is facing theft charges in Southlake, TX, don't wait to seek legal counsel. Contact the Law Office Of Mark M. Childress today at (817) 497-8148.