Prosper Property Crimes Defense Lawyers

Attorneys for Criminal Charges Involving Money or Property in Prosper, TX

When a person is accused of a property crime, the penalties they may face can vary depending on a variety of factors. Some charges may be classified as minor misdemeanors, while others could be serious felonies that could lead to decades of prison time and other penalties. In cases involving property crimes, a person will need to make sure to work with an attorney who can help them understand the issues that could affect their case and the options they may have for defending against a conviction.

At Texas Defense Firm, our lawyers have the criminal defense experience needed to help clients in Prosper address charges of theft, burglary, or other property crimes. We can review the reasons for arrests and the evidence involved in a case, and we can identify the options that may be available to resolve a case while avoiding a criminal conviction. We will provide guidance throughout these matters, making sure our clients take the right steps to address these charges and minimize the impact that criminal cases may have on their lives.

Factors That May Affect Property Crime Charges and Penalties

Value of the Property Involved

In many cases, the specific property crimes that may apply in a certain case will be based on the value of property that has allegedly been stolen, damaged, or destroyed. At lower values, misdemeanor charges may apply, but in cases involving high-value items or extensive damage, a person may face felony charges.

Location of the Alleged Offense

Where a property crime allegedly took place may affect how a case is charged. Burglary charges, for example, are treated more seriously when they involve accusations that a person entered a home or another habitation without authorization. Theft or other offenses that allegedly occurred at certain protected locations, such as a church or another place of worship, may also result in enhanced charges.

People Affected by the Alleged Offense

The identities and circumstances of the people who were allegedly affected by theft or other property crimes can influence the specific charge and the potential penalties. Theft committed against an elderly or disabled person may involve more serious charges. Multiple offenses committed against people or companies in similar circumstances, such as a series of shoplifting offenses, could result in more serious charges when cases are prosecuted together.

Whether Anyone Was Injured

While many property crimes do not involve physical harm, some offenses may put people's safety at risk. The penalties a person may face are likely to be more serious when they have been accused of injuring or harming someone else. Robbery charges may involve injuries to alleged victims, and they may be elevated to aggravated robbery if serious injuries occur. Arson that allegedly resulted in injuries or death can result in more serious penalties than cases that only involved property damage.

Types of Property Crime Charges

• Theft: When a person is accused of unlawfully taking something belonging to someone else or receiving services without paying for them, they may face misdemeanor or felony charges based on the value of what they allegedly stole.
• Shoplifting: Theft that allegedly took place in a retail store and involved taking merchandise without paying the full price can result in serious charges. While a single theft of a small item may be classified as a misdemeanor, theft of a high-value item or of multiple items as part of a continuing course of conduct could lead to felony charges.
• Burglary: When a person is accused of entering a building that was closed to the public, they could face criminal charges based on their intent to steal something or commit another criminal offense. An offense may involve breaking into a business after hours, entering someone's home without permission, or entering or remaining on someone else's property.
• Robbery: If a person is accused of theft in which they threatened to harm the alleged victim, used force to take something, or inflicted injuries, they could be charged with robbery. This offense may be considered to be a violent crime, and a conviction can lead to serious penalties.
• Arson: Offenses involving purposely starting fires can lead to serious criminal charges. Arson charges may be based on an intent to damage or destroy property or reckless behavior in which a person should have been aware of the dangers of fires or explosions.

How Our Attorneys Can Defend Against Property Crime Accusations

Our lawyers will review the specific charges involved in a property crime, making sure we understand what was allegedly stolen or damaged, where an offense allegedly took place, who was present during the incident, and any other information that could affect a case. We may take steps to dispute the calculation of the value of property that was allegedly taken or destroyed. We can also challenge other factors, such as whether violence was used or whether serious injuries occurred.

We will also determine whether a prosecutor can prove that a person intended to commit an offense. We may be able to show that accusations were based on a misunderstanding or disagreements about who owned or was allowed to use property. We may take steps to have charges reduced or for certain charges to be dismissed, and we will help our clients determine the best steps to take to avoid a criminal conviction while protecting against penalties that could affect their futures.

Contact Our Prosper, TX Property Crimes Attorneys

The consequences that a person may face when they are charged with a property crime can range from a fine to decades in prison. Understanding the best defenses to use in these cases can be crucial. At Texas Defense Firm, our attorneys will make sure our clients have a strong advocate on their side as they defend against these charges. We will work to resolve these matters and help our clients avoid long-term penalties. Contact our Prosper property crime defense lawyers at 972-369-0577 to set up a free consultation.