Are you facing theft-related criminal charges in Dallas, Texas? A theft conviction can impact your freedom, your reputation, and your future. Contact the Dallas theft crimes lawyers at Texas Defense Firm at (469) 365-2228 for help building your defense. We offer consultations to explain your rights.
We have over 200 years of collective legal practice defending clients accused of shoplifting, burglary, fraud, auto theft, or other theft crimes in Dallas. Our attorneys are here to protect your rights and build your strongest possible defense.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation with a Dallas theft crimes attorney and take the first step toward safeguarding your future.
Why Choose Texas Defense Firm After a Theft Charge in Dallas, TX?
When your freedom and future are on the line, you need experienced attorneys who fight to protect you.
At Texas Defense Firm, here’s what sets our Dallas criminal defense lawyers apart:
- 200+ years of combined criminal defense experience handling theft cases across Texas.
- Extensive track record of representing clients facing theft and property crime charges.
- Aggressive, strategic defense based on the specifics of each client and case.
- Clear, respectful communication that helps you understand your options and the legal process throughout.
- Readiness to take your case to trial when necessary to protect your reputation and rights.
We treat every case with the dedication and attention it deserves. You will never feel like you’re fighting alone. Call us today to schedule a case review with a Dallas theft crimes attorney.
Overview of Theft Crimes Under Texas Law
In Texas, “theft crimes” is an umbrella term covering a wide range of offenses involving taking or using someone else’s property without authorization and with the intent to deprive.
Common examples include:
- Shoplifting or petty theft
- Burglary (unauthorized entry, often with intent to commit theft)
- Robbery (theft with use or threat of force)
- Auto theft / unauthorized use of a vehicle
- Fraud or theft by deception (including credit card and identity theft)
- Embezzlement and other forms of theft by someone entrusted with property
- Possession of stolen property, even if you didn’t commit the original theft
Each type of theft offense carries its own definitions and penalties under Texas law. The severity of charges are influenced by factors such as property value, use of force, and your prior record.
What Are the Penalties for Theft Crime Convictions in Dallas, Texas?
In Texas, the penalties for theft depend on the value of the alleged stolen property and the circumstances of the offense.
Under Texas law, the penalty ranges are as follows:
Class C Misdemeanor
For theft involving property valued at less than $100, the penalty is a fine of up to $500 with no jail time.
Class B Misdemeanor
If the stolen property is valued between $100 and $750, the offense carries up to 180 days in jail and fines of up to $2,000. Theft of property valued under $100 can also be charged as a Class B misdemeanor if the accused has a prior theft conviction or if the stolen item is an identification card.
Class A Misdemeanor
Theft involving property valued between $750 and $2,500 is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and fines of up to $4,000.
State Jail Felony
Theft valued between $2,500 and $30,000 is classified as a state jail felony. This category also includes theft of a firearm, certain metals, or repeat theft offenses. A conviction can result in 180 days to two years in a state jail facility and fines up to $10,000.
Third-Degree Felony
Theft of property or services valued between $30,000 and $150,000 is a third-degree felony. Certain livestock thefts also fall under this classification. Penalties include two to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
Second-Degree Felony
Theft of property valued between $150,000 and $300,000 is a second-degree felony. Theft involving an ATM machine is also considered a second-degree felony, regardless of the value taken. Those convicted face two to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
First-Degree Felony
Theft exceeding $300,000 is a first-degree felony. This carries the most severe penalties, with five to 99 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
Given the serious consequences of a conviction, it is critical to have an experienced Dallas theft crimes lawyer by your side to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Collateral Consequences of a Theft Conviction in Dallas
The penalties for theft in Texas go far beyond fines, jail, or prison time. Even after serving your sentence, a theft conviction can follow you for years.
Additionally, theft is considered a crime of moral turpitude; it can raise questions about your honesty and trustworthiness, which can have long-lasting personal and professional repercussions. Many employers conduct background checks, and theft convictions can be a red flag that limits job prospects, especially in positions involving money, inventory, or customer trust.
Some of the most common collateral consequences include:
- Difficulty finding employment
- Loss of professional licenses in careers in teaching, healthcare, law, finance, and other licensed fields
- Difficulty securing rental housing.
- Immigration consequences, including visa denials, loss of legal status, or even deportation for certain theft convictions.
- Denied admission or funding to applicants with criminal records.
These consequences can impact your life long after the case ends, so it’s critical to fight theft charges aggressively from the outset. A skilled Dallas theft crimes lawyer can work to protect both your immediate freedom and your long-term future.
Possible Defenses Against Theft Charges in Dallas
Every theft case is unique, and the right defense depends on the specific circumstances of your situation. Common defenses may include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, or proving that you had a rightful claim to the property in question.
In some cases, law enforcement may have conducted an unlawful search or seizure, which could make crucial evidence inadmissible in court. An experienced Dallas theft crimes lawyer will carefully analyze the details of your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, and develop a tailored strategy to protect your rights and future.
Statute of Limitations for Theft Crimes in Texas
The statute of limitations is the time limit prosecutors have to file theft charges.
In Texas, theft offenses are subject to the following deadlines:
- Misdemeanor theft is generally 2 years from the date of the alleged offense.
- Felony theft is generally subject to a 5 year deadline. Certain types of theft (such as those involving fiduciary duty breaches or public servants) may have longer limits.
If charges are filed after the statute expires, they can often be dismissed.
What to Do If You’re Arrested for Theft in Dallas
The moments following an arrest can have a huge impact on your case.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Stay calm and respectful – Confrontations with law enforcement rarely help.
- Exercise your right to remain silent – Do not answer questions about the alleged theft without a lawyer present.
- Request an attorney immediately – Ask to contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
- Avoid speaking to others about your case – Even casual comments to friends or on social media can be used against you.
- Document everything – Write down what happened before, during, and after the arrest while it’s fresh in your mind.
Early legal intervention can mean the difference between a conviction and a cleared record. An attorney can help you protect your rights and avoid mistakes that hurt your claim.
How a Dallas Theft Crimes Lawyer Can Help You
Facing theft charges in Dallas can be overwhelming, especially when the stakes include steep fines, jail time, and a permanent criminal record. A skilled theft crimes lawyer can level the playing field by protecting your rights and building the strongest possible defense.
Your lawyer will help by:
- Investigating the facts.
- Gathering witness statements, surveillance footage, and other evidence.
- Analyzing the legality of searches and seizures.
- Pinpointing weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as unreliable witnesses or insufficient proof of intent.
- Negotiating for reduced charges or dismissal.
- Preparing a compelling case to present to a judge or jury if trial is the best path forward.
A knowledgeable Dallas theft crimes attorney can also protect your record and explore options for expunction or nondisclosure when available
Contact a Dallas Theft Crimes Lawyer Today for Help
Your freedom, reputation, and future matter. If you or someone you care about has been accused of theft in Dallas, don’t wait until it’s too late to mount your defense. The earlier you involve a skilled attorney, the more options you have to protect your future.
Call Texas Defense Firm today to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced Dallas theft crimes lawyers. We create a defense strategy built for your specific case and help you avoid the worst consequences of a conviction. We proudly defend clients throughout Dallas and the surrounding communities.