Theft Charges in Texas: From Shoplifting to Felony Robbery
A theft conviction can damage your reputation and career - regardless of the amount involved
Theft charges in Texas cover a wide spectrum - from a misdemeanor shoplifting charge that can still result in jail time and a permanent record, to felony robbery and aggravated robbery charges that carry decades in prison. Regardless of where your charge falls on that spectrum, a conviction can damage your reputation, your career, and your future.
How Texas Classifies Theft Offenses
Texas theft law is primarily value-based - the severity of the charge depends on the value of the property or services allegedly taken, ranging from a Class C misdemeanor (under $100) up to a first-degree felony (over $300,000, carrying 5 to 99 years or life in prison). Prior theft convictions can also elevate the charge level regardless of the value involved.
Robbery and Aggravated Robbery
Robbery - theft combined with causing or threatening bodily injury - is a second-degree felony in Texas, carrying 2 to 20 years in prison. Aggravated robbery, which involves a deadly weapon or causes serious bodily injury, is a first-degree felony with a potential life sentence.
Burglary
Burglary - entering a building or habitation without consent with intent to commit a felony, theft, or assault - is a state jail felony for commercial buildings and a second-degree felony for habitations. Burglary of a habitation with intent to commit a felony other than theft is a first-degree felony.
Defense Strategies
- Lack of intent - theft requires intentional conduct; mistake or misunderstanding is a valid defense
- Ownership or right to possession - a good-faith belief that you had a right to the property negates the intent element
- Insufficient evidence - challenging the identification of the defendant or the valuation of the property
- Constitutional violations - suppressing evidence obtained through unlawful searches
- Diversion and deferred adjudication - for first-time offenders, pursuing outcomes that avoid a permanent conviction
Contact Hawk Law PC
A theft conviction - at any level - can follow you for life. Michael Hawk has over 30 years of experience defending clients against theft charges in Texas. Call (469) 699-HAWK for a confidential consultation.