El Paso Theft Crime Defense Attorney

Aggressive Defense for Theft Charges in Texas

Being charged with theft can be a very serious matter. In Texas, theft is a crime that is taken very seriously by the courts. If you are convicted of theft, you could face serious penalties, including jail time and fines. In addition, a theft conviction can have a long-lasting impact on your life, making it difficult to find employment and housing.

At Joseph Veith Law, we understand the seriousness of theft charges and the impact a conviction can have on your life. We are committed to providing the aggressive defense you need to fight the charges against you. Our El Paso theft crime defense lawyer has extensive experience handling theft cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and your future.

If you have been charged with theft, call (915) 600-6045 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our theft crime defense attorney in El Paso.

Understanding Theft Laws in Texas

Under Texas law, theft is defined as unlawfully appropriating property with the intent to deprive the owner of the property. This means that you can be charged with theft if you take someone else’s property without their permission and with the intent to keep it for yourself.

There are several different types of theft crimes in Texas, including:

• Petit theft: Also known as petty theft, this is the theft of property valued at less than $2,500. Petit theft is a misdemeanor offense in Texas.
• Grand theft: This is the theft of property valued at $2,500 or more. Grand theft is a felony offense in Texas.
• Shoplifting: This is the theft of property from a retail store. Shoplifting is a specific type of theft crime in Texas and is charged as a separate offense.
• Auto theft: This is the theft of a motor vehicle. Auto theft is a specific type of theft crime in Texas and is charged as a separate offense.
• Robbery: This is the theft of property from a person using force or the threat of force. Robbery is a specific type of theft crime in Texas and is charged as a separate offense.

It is important to note that you can be charged with theft even if you did not actually take someone else’s property. If you are found to be in possession of stolen property, you can be charged with theft. In addition, if you are found to be in possession of property that you know or should have known was stolen, you can be charged with theft.

Penalties for Theft Crimes in Texas

The penalties for theft crimes in Texas vary depending on the value of the property that was stolen and the specific circumstances of the case. In general, the penalties for theft crimes in Texas are as follows:

• Petit theft: If you are convicted of petit theft, you could face up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $2,000.
• Grand theft: If you are convicted of grand theft, you could face between 180 days and two years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.
• Shoplifting: If you are convicted of shoplifting, you could face up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $2,000.
• Auto theft: If you are convicted of auto theft, you could face between 180 days and two years in jail and fines of up to $10,000.
• Robbery: If you are convicted of robbery, you could face between two and 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.

In addition to these penalties, a theft conviction can have a long-lasting impact on your life. A theft conviction will appear on your criminal record and can make it difficult to find employment and housing. In addition, if you are convicted of theft, you could face civil penalties. The owner of the property that was stolen can sue you for damages and seek to recover the value of the property that was stolen.