Have you been arrested for a theft crime in Celina, Texas? A conviction could seriously jeopardize your future if you aren’t careful. However, you still have time to fight back with help from an experienced trial attorney at Texas Defense Firm.
We’re an award-winning criminal defense law firm that you can trust. Our Celina theft crimes lawyers bring more than 200 years of combined experience to the table and thoroughly understand how the local prosecution tries its cases. Contact us today at (972) 369-0577 to get started with your case.
How Texas Defense Firm Can Help if You Were Charged With a Theft Crime in Celina, TX
Despite how confident law enforcement and the prosecution seem to be, the fact of the matter is that they must meet a heavy burden of proof to convict you. That gives our Celina criminal defense lawyers plenty of room to work in terms of responding appropriately.
Texas Defense Firm has the resources and passion to go toe-to-toe with the government and secure favorable results.
Some of the ways we can help with your case include:
- Internally investigating your charges and the evidence against you
- Filing motions as applicable to make your defense as compelling as possible
- Gathering exculpatory evidence that supports your side of the story
- Making sure you understand your case’s progress at all times
- Representing you at all court hearings and at criminal trial if needed
We strongly believe in the notion that everyone deserves the best possible defense. Call our Celina theft crimes attorneys today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
Theft Laws in Texas
Texas Penal Code § 31.03 defines theft as the unlawful appropriation of property with the intent to deprive the owner of it. This broad definition covers a wide range of conduct, from shoplifting and writing bad checks to embezzlement and receiving stolen property.
To convict you, the prosecution must prove two key elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- That you took or exercised control over someone else’s property without their consent
- That you did so with the intent to deprive the owner of that property
If the prosecution cannot establish both of these elements, you should not be convicted.
Enhanced Theft Charges
Certain circumstances can elevate a theft charge to a more serious level.
Under Texas law, penalties may be increased if:
- The stolen property is a firearm
- The theft involves a controlled substance
- The stolen property includes specific materials like catalytic converters or copper taken from critical infrastructure
- The defendant has prior theft convictions on their record
Oftentimes, whether an enhancement is present can mean the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a Theft Conviction in Celina, TX?
The penalties for a theft conviction in Texas depend on several factors, including the value of the property allegedly involved, the circumstances of the offense, and the defendant’s criminal history. Theft offenses may be charged as either misdemeanors or felonies, with more serious allegations generally carrying harsher consequences.
A conviction can result in criminal penalties such as fines, probation, incarceration, or other court-imposed sanctions. In addition, the court may order restitution to compensate the alleged victim for financial losses related to the offense.
Beyond the immediate legal consequences, a theft conviction can have lasting effects on a person’s life. A criminal record may create challenges when seeking employment, housing, professional licenses, educational opportunities, or other important benefits.
What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to Theft Charges in Celina, TX?
At the beginning of your case, our theft crimes attorneys in Celina will review the facts and determine the best defense strategy for your situation. Possible defenses in these cases include:
- You did not intend to deprive the owner of the property
- You had authorization to use the property in question
- You genuinely believed the property was yours based on a reasonable mistake of fact
- Your constitutional rights were violated
- The prosecution lacks sufficient evidence to prove your charges
- You were falsely accused in some way, such as through mistaken identity
Don’t lose hope about what’s to come before you’ve spoken with us about your options. While we will aim to have your charges dropped altogether if possible, no outcome can be guaranteed in advance.
Schedule a Consultation With Our Celina Theft Crimes Attorneys
Were you charged with theft in Celina, TX? Texas Defense Firm is here to represent you throughout the entire legal process, aiming to help you secure as favorable a resolution as we can as the law permits.
Contact our Celina theft crimes attorneys today for a consultation. We have 200+ years of experience in the field and are ready to get to work for you next.
